Revolutionary HPCE Power Connector Unleashes Over 600W to GPUs Without Cable Constraints
The revolutionary HPCE power connector eliminates the need for cables, delivering an impressive 600W of power directly to the GPU Experience a cable-free solution that maximizes efficiency and convenience for high-performance graphics processing
Highlights
Asus introduces the innovative High Power Card Edge (HPCE) power connector, revolutionizing the way power is supplied to graphics cards by eliminating the necessity of cables. This cutting-edge technology necessitates supplementary hardware on both the GPU and motherboard sides and was impressively exhibited alongside the GeForce RTX 4070 Megalodon and TUF Gaming Z790 BTF motherboard.
The HPCE connector, located on the motherboard near the primary PCIe x16 slot, can deliver over 600W of power to the graphics card. It accepts the GC-HPWR Gold Finger on the graphics card for power supply, eliminating the need for a separate lock as the PCIe x16 slot lock is sufficient to secure the card in place.
While the power for the HPCE connector still comes from the motherboard, this technology simplifies cable management and allows for the installation of standard graphics cards on the motherboard. Board partners, such as Asus, are expected to incorporate the HPCE connector into their products, although pricing details have yet to be announced.
According to a recent report, official documents reveal the detailed features of a revolutionary GPU power connector that eliminates the need for cables. Known as the High Power Card Edge (HPCE) power connector, it is situated on the motherboard alongside the primary PCIe x16 slot and can deliver an impressive power supply of over 600W to the graphics card. This groundbreaking technology was initially presented by Asus at Computex in May, featuring the concept GeForce RTX 4070 Megalodon and TUF Gaming Z790 BTF motherboard.
During the Computex event, Asus introduced a pioneering approach to power delivery for graphics cards, completely eliminating the requirement for cables. They introduced the HPCE connector technology, which necessitates additional hardware on both the GPU and motherboard for successful implementation. Asus demonstrated this product alongside the GeForce RTX 4070 Megalodon and TUF Gaming Z790 BTF motherboard. This innovative connector not only simplifies and declutters the build process but also boasts enhanced reliability compared to the new 12VHPWR connector, as it is a modified version of the HPCE connector commonly used in the server industry.
Twitter user @momomo_us has shared what appears to be the official documentation for the upcoming HPCE connector. This documentation reveals the important specifications for the connector, which features four groups of pins in a PCIe x1 slot size. The power delivery aspect of the connector is managed by 16 pins, while communication is facilitated through 12 pins. The accompanying diagrams clearly illustrate that the HPCE connector is positioned on the motherboard, aligned with the primary PCIe x16 slot typically reserved for graphics cards. To supply power, the HPCE connector accepts the GC-HPWR Gold Finger on the graphics card. Notably, no separate lock is required for the HPCE connector, as the existing lock on the PCIe x16 slot effectively holds the card securely in place.
The HPCE connector design, shared by @momomo_us on Twitter, is documented to have the capability of delivering over 600W of power to the graphics card. While it does not specify an upper limit, this power capacity is generally sufficient for powering most stock GPUs. However, it should be noted that GPUs with modified firmware and LN2 overclocking may require higher power intake.
However, the power source for this connector must be acquired. Asus displayed their design at Computex, featuring the TUF Gaming Z790 BTF motherboard with connectors at the rear. To provide power to the HPCE connector, the graphics card cables still need to be connected to the back of the motherboard. This eliminates the need for cables when installing graphics cards, significantly simplifying cable management. Additionally, the motherboard is equipped with three 8-pin PCIe power connectors, allowing users to choose between a single 16-pin connection or a three-cable connection. This also means that standard graphics cards can be used with this motherboard.
Current offerings of Asus RTX 4070:
The ASUS TUF Gaming RTX 4070 OC, priced at $660 with a $20 discount, is the ultimate choice for users looking for a well-balanced package of affordability, performance, and sturdy construction in an RTX 4070. Boasting exceptional and quiet cooling capabilities, an impressive boost clock rate, and a rugged aesthetic, this model effortlessly stands out as one of the top-notch RTX 4070 selections available.
$670 at Amazon $670 at Newegg $660 at Best Buy
ASUS ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4070 OC
The ASUS ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4070 OC stands out as the ultimate choice for those seeking unparalleled performance in a consumer-grade RTX 4070 GPU. Boasting exceptional cooling and an impressive design, this card does come with a significant price tag. However, its 3 slot, tri-fan design sets it apart from Nvidia's mid-range RTX 4070 GPU models. Available for purchase at $740 on Amazon and $750 on Newegg.
The ASUS Dual GeForce RTX 4070 OC Edition is a powerful GPU that offers excellent performance at an affordable price. With its decent overclock capabilities, quiet design, and competitive price tag, it provides a great alternative to Nvidia's own FE offerings MSRP. Boasting 12GB of GDDR6X memory, this generation of the Dual RTX 4070 OC is particularly popular among owners of smaller cases and ITX builders thanks to its compact design and effective cooling solution.
The prices for the product are as follows:
- $600 at Amazon
- $600 at Newegg
- $610 at Best Buy
As for availability, it will depend on the board partners initiating the implementation of the new HPCE connector in their motherboards and graphics cards. Currently, only Asus has introduced their concepts based on the connector. They have announced that the TUF Gaming Z790 BTF and the GeForce RTX 4070 Megalodon will be available worldwide, despite BTF motherboards previously being exclusive to China. The pricing for these new motherboards and GPUs is not yet known, however, they are expected to have a slightly higher price compared to standard components.
