A reliable power supply is integral for the overall performance and longevity of any computer system. However, when it comes to high-end gaming components such as the GTX 980 graphics card, choosing the right power supply is crucial. As this powerful graphics card requires a lot of power, it’s crucial to ensure that the power supply unit (PSU) can meet its power demands in order to avoid any possible system failures or crashes.
The question that comes to mind is, what power supply do I need for GTX 980? The answer to this question is quite simple. The minimum recommended power supply for the GTX 980 is 500W, but it’s often recommended to go for a 650W or higher PSU to provide ample power for the entire system. In this article, we will cover all the necessary information required to select the right PSU for your gaming rig to ensure that it delivers an outstanding gaming experience without any hiccups.
What Power Supply Do I Need for GTX 980?
When it comes to choosing a power supply for GTX 980, you need to consider a few essential factors to ensure your system runs seamlessly without any power-related issues. Here’s what you need to know:
– GTX 980 requires a power supply with a minimum wattage of 500W, but it is recommended to go for a higher wattage PSU to ensure stability and headroom for future upgrades.
– The power supply needs to have at least one 8-pin power connector to provide power to the GTX 980 graphics card. Some GPUs may require two 8-pin connectors, so make sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications before purchasing a power supply.
– In addition to the power requirements, you need to choose a power supply that’s reliable, efficient, and has enough protection mechanisms to safeguard your components from power surges and other voltage-related issues.
– Look for power supplies that meet the required 80 Plus certification (Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum). This ensures that the PSU is efficient and can deliver power without generating excessive heat.
– Other features to look for in a power supply include modular cabling, quiet operation, and multiple safety protections such as OVP, OCP, UVP, and SCP.
In summary, to power a GTX 980 graphics card, you need a power supply with at least a 500W rating, one or two 8-pin power connectors, and reliable and efficient features to ensure stable performance.
FAQ
1) What is the minimum required power supply for a GTX 980?
Answer: A 500-watt power supply with a minimum of 42 amps on the +12V rail is required for a GTX 980.
2) What happens if I use a power supply with lower wattage than the recommended?
Answer: Using a power supply with lower wattage than the recommended can result in unstable system performance, crashes, and potential damage to the components.
3) Can I use a power supply with higher wattage than the recommended for GTX 980?
Answer: Yes, you can use a power supply with higher wattage than the recommended for GTX 980. However, it will not provide any additional performance benefits.
4) What type of power connectors does the GTX 980 require?
Answer: The GTX 980 requires one 6-pin and one 8-pin power connector.
5) Is it necessary to use a power supply from the same manufacturer as the graphics card?
Answer: No, it is not necessary to use a power supply from the same manufacturer as the graphics card. Any reputable power supply with the required wattage and power connectors will work.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing what power supply you need for your GTX 980 is crucial in ensuring that your gaming experience is optimal and stable. By considering factors such as the GPU’s power requirements, the available power supply wattage, and the efficiency rating, you can make an informed decision on which power supply to purchase. It’s important to remember that investing in a good quality power supply not only enhances your GPU’s performance but also safeguards your system against potential damage caused by insufficient power supply. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, we hope that you can select the right power supply for your GTX 980 and enjoy seamless gaming for years to come.
