Intel recommends using 4-spring 12VHPWR connection over 3-dimple design

Soon after the release of the first RTX 40 series GPUs, we heard several user reports of malfunctioning 12VHPWR connectors, leading to questions around the design of the connector. Nvidia stands by its design and it does appear that unseated cabled was the root cause behind the issues, but Intel has now begun recommending a 4-spring 12VHPWR connector design over the 3-dimple design. 

Intel has yet to launch a graphics card using a 12VHPWR power connector, but that will likely happen eventually. Even without having such graphics, the blue team has already published documentation sharing its recommendations regarding using such connectors on its products, as found by @harukze5719.

it seems that Intel has finally decided that structure of the connector contact is also one of major problem.

— 포시포시 (@harukaze5719) March 13, 2023

According to the documentation, the company recommends using the 4-spring over the 3-dimple design to crimp the contacts inside the plug. Intel then explained that using the former method increases the contact area for electrical current flow inside the connector and reduces the temperature rise of each contact, reducing the risk of overheating and melting the connectors.

Intel's documentation suggests that there are some recognisable flaws in the design currently in use and importantly, there are ways to address them.

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KitGuru says: With Intel now recommending one design over the other, it will be interesting if GPU makers switch over for newer cards. 

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