I'm shortening my PSU cables so there's less cable management when I get to the install phase.

My PSU has two SATA power cables with 3 connectors on each. What I'd like to do is put all 6 connectors in a ladder configuration connected to one of the cables and tie back the other cable altogether.

I'm wondering whether I'll run into power issues when trying to put all the connectors on one cable and whether I should still use both cables.

The illustration below is better at describing what I'm trying to achieve.




I guess it all depends on how the cables are connected inside the PSU but my impression is that it shouldn't matter and that the manufacturer simply offers two independent cables in case your HD racks are in two different locations.

BTW I'm using the Silverstone OP1000

I'd appreciate any help/advice in this matter.

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First choice, I think.
Wouldn't the second one double the amps?

The problem with running so many devices in series from one line ,is that you'll see decreased voltages on the end connectors.

Unfortunately since i'm not an electronics wiz, I cant tell you what the voltage drop will be, or how its effected by the wire gauge selected.

Thanks for the replies!!

killert - based on my drawings yes, I believe the second choice would cause the problem you mention because it would be a parallel circuit.

Unfortunately, I drew it incorrectly, there was supposed to be a break between the third and fourth connectors. (see edited drawing below).

Edited Version:



RBIEZE. Yeah, I'm not sure about the voltage drop. I'm hoping Nerdz or somebody can give me a note letting me know the specifics. Thanks for the comment though!!

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I'm rather curious about this myself. I also have a mod going where I have too many wires on the PSU and very little space in the box. Show us what you did when you do it. What are you going to do with the cables you don't use? Snip them off?

I'm almost certain that if you connected the two rails together in parallel, it will basically double the amperage going to each SATA connector. This shouldn't harm any connected components, as they will only draw as many amps as they need. Also, depending on the power supply (specifically a cheap one) the rails might split from a single rail inside the power supply.

Quote: Originally Posted by Jobistober I'm almost certain that if you connected the two rails together in parallel, it will basically double the amperage going to each SATA connector. This shouldn't harm any connected components, as they will only draw as many amps as they need. Also, depending on the power supply (specifically a cheap one) the rails might split from a single rail inside the power supply.

Both points are absolutely correct. I checked the specs on my OP1000 and realized that the PSU is a single 12V rail running 80A (88A peak) and all the peripheral cables coming out of the PSU are paralleled off of that 12V rail.

I spoke with the Elec. Eng. at work and he said I should have no problem running all six connectors from the one line.

Thank you for all the responses from everyone I definitely appreciate it!!