The 24-pin connector is a crucial component that connects the power supply to the motherboard. It provides power to various components and is typically one of the largest connectors inside your PC. Here’s how to locate it:
1. Turn Off and Unplug Your PC
- Ensure your computer is powered down and unplugged from the power source to avoid any risk of electrical shock.
2. Open the Side Panel of Your Case
- Use a screwdriver (typically a Phillips head) to remove the screws on the side panel of your PC case.
- Slide off the panel to expose the internal components.
3. Locate the Motherboard
- The motherboard is the large circuit board that covers most of the inside of your PC case. It will have various connectors, chips, and slots for different components.
4. Identify the 24-Pin ATX Power Connector
- Look for a Large Connector with Multiple Colored Wires: The 24-pin power connector is usually the largest connector that comes from your power supply. It features a bundle of wires of various colors, each representing different voltages and grounds.
- Find Its Location on the Motherboard:
- The 24-pin connector is usually positioned along the right side edge of the motherboard, near the middle.
- It is typically labeled as “ATX” or “PWR” on the motherboard itself.
- Recognize the Connector Shape: The connector has 24 pins arranged in two rows of 12, and it can only be inserted one way because of the specific notches and shape.
5. Follow the Power Supply Cables
- You can also follow the thick bundle of wires coming out of the power supply. One of these cables ends in the 24-pin connector, which plugs directly into the motherboard.
Tips for Identifying It
- The 24-pin connector is distinct due to its size and the fact that it powers the motherboard entirely. Unlike other connectors, it’s the largest and cannot be confused with smaller power connectors for components like the CPU or GPU.
- It’s typically located near other key connectors, such as the 4-pin or 8-pin CPU power connector, which is usually placed closer to the top of the motherboard.
If you still have the motherboard manual, it will include a diagram that clearly shows the location of the 24-pin power connector, making it easier to find.
