How many pins does a standard ATX motherboard power adapter typically have?

A standard ATX motherboard power adapter typically has either 20 or 24 pins. This configuration provides the necessary power connections to support the various components of a computer system, such as the CPU, RAM, and motherboard features.

The 20-pin connector was the original design, but the 24-pin connector became the standard to offer additional power for more demanding components and modern hardware. This additional four pins primarily provide extra +12V power, which is essential for high-performance systems, especially those with advanced graphics capabilities or multiple peripherals.

Understanding the pin configuration is crucial for building or upgrading a PC, as using the correct power adapter ensures compatibility and stability in power delivery to the motherboard and connected components.