The GeForce RTX 4080 Super, recognized as one of the top-performing graphics cards, has debuted with a 16-pin power connector (12VHPWR), aligning with the anticipated specifications. However, an image from a Japanese reviewer has unveiled an interesting alternative. The teardown of the Palit GeForce RTX 4080 Super GamingPro OC has exposed PCB spacing designated for two 8-pin PCIe power connectors. This suggests that, at some point, the manufacturer contemplated employing standard 8-pin PCIe power connectors rather than the 16-pin variant.
Upon close inspection, the empty area for the additional connectors is positioned alongside the 12VHPWR power connector, hinting at a possible deviation from the initial design choice. While PCI-SIG has enhanced the safety features of the 12VHPWR power connector, concerns linger, particularly in the aftermath of the complications faced by the original connector in the meltdown incident involving the flagship GeForce RTX 4090.
Similar to the recently launched GeForce RTX 4070 Super, it is conceivable that the use of the 12VHPWR power connector is a prerequisite for the GeForce RTX 4080 Super. However, some vendors, such as Maxsun, challenge this requirement and opt for two 8-pin PCIe power connectors on specific models. In the case of Palit, it seems the manufacturer adhered to Nvidia's specifications. Interestingly, had Palit chosen otherwise, the GeForce RTX 4080 Super GamingPro OC would have been the sole custom variant featuring such a design. The positioning of the power connectors at the rear of the graphics card is a design commonly associated with professional products.
The GeForce RTX 4080 Super boasts a Total Graphics Power (TGP) of 320W, with Nvidia reporting an average power consumption of approximately 246W during gaming. The power requirements are met through a pair of 8-pin PCIe power connectors and the PCIe expansion slot (375W). The included 16-pin power adapter for the GeForce RTX 4080 Super GamingPro OC features two 8-pin PCIe connectors on the opposite end. However, users without an ATX 3.0 power supply may find themselves needing to utilize two 8-pin PCIe power cables, potentially undermining the goal of minimizing cable clutter.
Given the similarities between the regular GeForce RTX 4080 and the Super variant, Nvidia's AIB (Add-In-Board) partners may reuse the former PCBs for the updated model. Palit's decision to employ 8-pin PCIe power connectors on the GeForce RTX 4080 Super GamingPro OC aligns with its approach for the GeForce RTX 4080 GamingPro OC, reinforcing the choice made during the original GeForce RTX 4080 launch.
While the specifics of Palit's design decision remain undisclosed, it is uncommon to allocate space for unused components. Nvidia's emphasis on the 12VHPWR power connector for its Ada Lovelace-based graphics cards provides insight into the potential rationale behind Palit's alteration.
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