CompTIA IT Fundamentals: Why These 2 PC Parts Must Have Their Own Power Cables

The CompTIA IT Fundamentals (FC0-U61) Study Guide highlights essential computer hardware knowledge, including power requirements. When building a PC, two components that require separate cabling for power are the motherboard (via the 24-pin ATX connector) and the CPU (using a 4/8-pin EPS cable). Understanding these connections is crucial for proper system assembly, as covered in the CompTIA FC0-U61 exam objectives.

Tech Professionals

21 April 2025

CompTIA

In the world of computer hardware, understanding the role of power distribution is critical for anyone aspiring to build, troubleshoot, or maintain a computer system. For students preparing for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (FC0-U61) certification, mastering foundational concepts like power cabling is essential. This article delves into the question: Which two computer components require separate cabling for power? We’ll explore the basics of the Power Supply Unit (PSU), identify the components that need dedicated power cables, discuss other components with power considerations, highlight common mistakes, and provide best practices. By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle this topic in your studies, with Study4Pass as your trusted resource for acing the CompTIA FC0-U61 exam.

Introduction

Every computer relies on a steady and reliable power source to function. The Power Supply Unit (PSU) is the heart of this process, converting AC power from your wall outlet into DC power that your computer components can use. However, not all components connect to the PSU in the same way. Some require dedicated power cables due to their high energy demands or unique power delivery requirements. Understanding which components need separate cabling is a key concept in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (FC0-U61) exam, and resources like Study4Pass provide comprehensive study guides and practice questions to help you master this topic.

In this article, we’ll focus on the two primary components that typically require separate power cables: the motherboard and the graphics card (GPU). We’ll also cover other components, common pitfalls, and how Study4Pass can support your exam preparation.

Power Supply Unit (PSU) Basics

The PSU is responsible for delivering power to all components within a computer system. It connects to the wall outlet via a standard power cord and converts high-voltage AC power into lower-voltage DC power. The PSU then distributes this power through various cables and connectors, each designed for specific components.

Key PSU connectors include:

24-pin ATX connector: Powers the motherboard.
4+4-pin EPS12V connector: Supplies additional power to the CPU via the motherboard.
6+2-pin PCIe connector: Powers high-performance components like graphics cards.
SATA power connector: Used for storage devices like SSDs and HDDs.
Molex connector: Powers older devices or fans.

For the CompTIA FC0-U61 exam, you need to understand the role of the PSU and how its cables connect to different components. Study4Pass offers detailed explanations and diagrams to clarify these connections, ensuring you’re ready for exam day.

Components Requiring Separate Power Cables

When asked, “Which two computer components require separate cabling for power?” the answer is the motherboard and the graphics card (GPU). Let’s explore why these components need dedicated power cables.

1. Motherboard

The motherboard is the central hub of a computer, connecting the CPU, RAM, storage devices, and other peripherals. It has significant power requirements to support these components and facilitate communication between them. The motherboard typically receives power through two connectors:

24-pin ATX connector: This is the primary power cable, delivering power to the motherboard’s core circuits and attached components like RAM.
4+4-pin EPS12V connector: This provides supplemental power, primarily for the CPU, which is mounted on the motherboard.

These separate cables ensure the motherboard receives stable and sufficient power for all its functions. Without them, the system would fail to boot or operate reliably.

2. Graphics Card (GPU)

High-performance graphics cards, especially those used for gaming, video editing, or cryptocurrency mining, have substantial power demands. While some low-end GPUs draw power solely through the PCIe slot on the motherboard, most modern GPUs require additional power via 6-pin or 8-pin PCIe connectors (often in a 6+2-pin configuration for flexibility). These cables connect directly from the PSU to the GPU, bypassing the motherboard to deliver the necessary wattage.

For example, a high-end GPU like the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 may require a 12VHPWR connector or multiple 8-pin connectors, depending on the PSU. This separate cabling ensures the GPU can handle intensive tasks without overloading the motherboard’s power delivery system.

Study4Pass emphasizes these distinctions in its CompTIA FC0-U61 Study Guide, providing clear examples and practice questions to reinforce your understanding of power cabling for the motherboard and GPU.

Other Components with Power Considerations

While the motherboard and GPU are the primary components requiring separate power cables, other components also have power needs worth noting:

Storage Devices (HDDs and SSDs): These typically use SATA power connectors from the PSU. Unlike the motherboard and GPU, their power requirements are lower, and they don’t always need dedicated cables in smaller systems.
CPU: The CPU receives power through the motherboard’s EPS12V connector, so it doesn’t require a separate cable directly from the PSU.
Case Fans and Cooling Systems: These may use Molex or 4-pin fan connectors, drawing power from the PSU or motherboard.
Optical Drives: Older systems with CD/DVD drives often use Molex connectors for power.

Understanding these components’ power needs is crucial for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals exam. Study4Pass provides detailed breakdowns of these connections, helping you differentiate between components that need separate cables and those that don’t.

Common Mistakes & Best Practices

When dealing with power cabling, beginners often make mistakes that can lead to system instability or failure. Here are some common errors and best practices to avoid them:

Common Mistakes

Using the Wrong Connector: Plugging a 6-pin PCIe connector into an 8-pin slot (or vice versa) can damage components or prevent the system from booting.
Overloading the PSU: Connecting too many high-power components to a low-wattage PSU can cause crashes or shutdowns.
Improper Cable Management: Loose or tangled cables can obstruct airflow, leading to overheating.
Ignoring PSU Wattage Ratings: Failing to match the PSU’s wattage to the system’s needs can result in insufficient power delivery.

Best Practices

Match Connectors Correctly: Always verify that the PSU cables match the component’s power requirements (e.g., 24-pin for motherboard, 8-pin for GPU).
Choose an Adequate PSU: Select a PSU with sufficient wattage and an 80+ efficiency rating for reliable performance.
Organize Cables: Use cable ties or routing channels to keep cables neat and ensure proper airflow.
Test Connections: Before powering on, double-check all connections to ensure they’re secure and correctly seated.

Study4Pass includes practical tips like these in its study materials, along with scenarios to help you apply these best practices in real-world situations.

CompTIA IT Fundamentals (FC0-U61) Focus

The CompTIA IT Fundamentals (FC0-U61) certification is designed for beginners entering the IT field. It covers essential topics like hardware, software, networking, and security. The question “Which two computer components require separate cabling for power?” aligns with the exam’s hardware domain, specifically the section on computer components and their functions.

To excel in this area, you need to:

Understand the role of the PSU and its connectors.
Identify components like the motherboard and GPU that require dedicated power cables.
Recognize the power needs of other components like storage devices and fans.
Apply best practices for power management and troubleshooting.

Study4Pass is an invaluable resource for FC0-U61 preparation. Its study guides break down complex topics into digestible sections, and its practice exams simulate the real test environment. With Study4Pass, you can build confidence in your knowledge and improve your chances of passing the exam on your first attempt.

Conclusion

Mastering the concept of power cabling is a stepping stone to understanding computer hardware and succeeding in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (FC0-U61) exam. The motherboard and graphics card stand out as the two components that typically require separate power cables due to their critical roles and high power demands. By studying the PSU’s function, recognizing other components’ power needs, and following best practices, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle this topic.

Study4Pass is your go-to platform for FC0-U61 preparation, offering expertly crafted study guides, practice questions, and tips to ensure you’re ready for exam day. Whether you’re new to IT or brushing up on fundamentals, Study4Pass provides the tools you need to succeed. Start your journey today and power up your IT career!