Modular PSUs have become the go-to choice for PC builders because they help us to avoid the cables we do not need, thereby bringing the cable clutter down. But, because modular PSU cables can be removed and opened, one can easily think that they can be replaced with cables from another PSU. But, if you have ever sought expert advice on this topic, you must have always received a strict “no.” But, what is the problem with mixing modular PSU cables? Let us find that out in this article.
Why Are Modular PSU Cables Not Interchangeable?
Power supply cables have two ends. One end plugs into the PSU and the other goes into the motherboard or other components. The latter connectors have standard layouts like the 24-pin ATX connection, 8-pin CPU EPS connector, SATA connectors, MOLEX connectors, etc.
But, the connectors on the PSU end are not standard. Every power supply manufacturer has come up with proprietary connections for their PSUs. So, to begin with, most power cables won’t plug into other PSUs from a different manufacturer. This is because some manufacturers use a 6-pin connector because they are cheap. Some other manufacturers use more pins on their connectors. EVGA uses 9-pin universalized connectors for all of its PSUs.
Once you are past the connector incompatibility, the next question will be what would happen if you connect PSU cables from a different manufacturer. This question can sound a bit weird because PSU cables have a simple task: carry electricity. Even bare copper should be able to get this task done. So, what is the problem? It lies in the pin layout.
One company can use the second pin for a 12V connection and the third for ground. But, another manufacturer can opt to make the second pin a ground connection and the third for a 12V connection. This is where things go wrong.
The results can vary anywhere from no issues caused at all if you are very lucky, to frying your hard drives or SSDs, to outright shorting all of your components. Thus, on a safety note, it is always recommended to not mix and match modular PSUs.