MSI recently showcased their latest X870 and X870E motherboard range at Gamescom 2024, introducing a new feature that caught the attention of many observers. These boards were equipped with an 8-pin PCIe power connector positioned at the bottom. The addition of these connectors suggests that MSI is preparing for the power demands of upcoming Nvidia and AMD graphics cards. It appears that these new generation cards will require a substantial amount of power to operate efficiently.
Traditionally, high-end or overclocking-focused motherboards have included secondary power connectors to provide extra power to graphics cards. However, it is unusual to see these connectors on more mainstream options like the MSI X870 and X870E. The standard PCIe x16 slot can deliver up to 75W of power, and with the additional 150W from the 8-pin connector, the total power output from the motherboard alone can reach 225W. Furthermore, with the possibility of adding up to 600W from a 12V-2×6 or 12VHPWR connector, the total power capacity could exceed 800W. This level of power is necessary for flagship tier cards such as the RTX 5090, and it can also accommodate configurations with multiple graphics cards for specialized tasks like productivity or AI workloads.
As the power consumption and thermal design power (TDP) of flagship graphics cards continue to rise, it is evident that manufacturers like MSI are taking preemptive measures to address these demands. For instance, the RTX 4090 is projected to consume up to 450W, with overclocked models potentially exceeding that limit. The possibility of a standard RTX 5090 with a TDP exceeding 500W is becoming increasingly likely. While other manufacturers have not integrated 8-pin connectors into their motherboard ranges, MSI’s cautious approach raises questions about the necessity of such headroom for future GPUs. The inclusion of the 8-pin connector on boards like the Asus Crosshair X870E Hero indicates a shift towards preparing for the power requirements of next generation graphics cards.
It will be intriguing to observe whether additional motherboard manufacturers follow MSI’s lead and incorporate similar power connectors in their upcoming releases. With Intel’s Z890 boards set to emerge in the near future, the trend towards accommodating higher power requirements in motherboards is likely to continue. The evolving landscape of GPU technology demands innovative solutions to sustain optimal performance levels and meet the needs of modern applications. As the industry progresses, it is essential for hardware manufacturers to adapt to the changing requirements of users and anticipate the trends that will shape the future of computing.
The unveiling of MSI’s X870 and X870E motherboards with 8-pin PCIe power connectors signifies a strategic response to the escalating power demands of next generation graphics cards. By proactively incorporating these connectors, MSI is positioned to support the evolving needs of enthusiasts and professionals in the realm of high-performance computing. This trend towards increased power capacity on mainstream motherboards reflects the growing significance of power efficiency in modern PC hardware design. As technology advances and GPUs become more powerful, the role of motherboards in facilitating optimal performance and stability becomes increasingly crucial. Stay tuned for further updates on the latest developments in motherboard technology and the impact of new power requirements on future PC builds.