How to Guide                                                    

Power supplies can be categorized based on cable management into 

 types. These classifications mainly affect cable management convenience, installation flexibility, and overall tidiness inside the PC case.

A full modular power supply allows all cables connecting to the motherboard and other components to be detached. Users can choose which cables to install, making it more flexible for DIY builders and resulting in a cleaner cable management setup.

A semi-modular power supply has some fixed cables that cannot be removed, while others are detachable. This design offers a balance between flexibility and ease of use.

A non-modular power supply has all cables permanently attached, making it the most affordable but least convenient option for cable management.

✔ You prioritize clean and organized cable management.

✔ You frequently upgrade hardware and need flexible installations.

✔ You are on a tight budget and just need a cost-effective option.





Power supplies can be categorized based on cable management into full modular, semi-modular, and non-modular types. These classifications mainly affect cable management convenience, installation flexibility, and overall tidiness inside the PC case.



Full Modular Power Supply

A full modular power supply allows all cables connecting to the motherboard and other components to be detached. Users can choose which cables to install, making it more flexible for DIY builders and resulting in a cleaner cable management setup.







✅ Advantages





Allows installation of only the necessary cables, reducing clutter.



Easy to upgrade or replace cables without changing the entire power supply.



⚠️ Disadvantages





More expensive than semi-modular and non-modular power supplies.



Requires manual cable installation, which may not be beginner-friendly.



Semi-Modular Power Supply

A semi-modular power supply has some fixed cables that cannot be removed, while others are detachable. This design offers a balance between flexibility and ease of use.







✅ Advantages





The 24-pin motherboard and 8-pin CPU power cables are fixed, preventing mistakes during installation.



Reduces unnecessary cables, maintaining a cleaner PC interior.



⚠️ Disadvantages





Fixed power cables may create unnecessary clutter inside the case.



Harder to manage than a full modular PSU but still better than a non-modular one.



Non-Modular (Fixed Cable) Power Supply

A non-modular power supply has all cables permanently attached, making it the most affordable but least convenient option for cable management.







✅ Advantages





No need to install cables separately, simplifying the setup process.



Lower cost, making it a high-value option.



⚠️ Disadvantages





Excess cables can cause clutter, affecting airflow and aesthetics.



Harder to replace; if a cable fails, the entire PSU needs to be replaced.



Typically has lower efficiency ratings and is not ideal for mid-to-high-end hardware.



Which Power Supply Should You Choose?

You should consider a full modular power supply if:

✔ You have a higher budget.

✔ You prioritize clean and organized cable management.

✔ You frequently upgrade hardware and need flexible installations.

✔ You are using high-end components.







A semi-modular or non-modular power supply is sufficient if:

✔ You are on a tight budget and just need a cost-effective option.

✔ You are building an office PC.

✔ You do not need a dedicated GPU.





Power supplies are categorized into three main types based on how their cables are connected. Let’s take a quick look!

Ｗhat are Full Modular, Semi-Modular, and Non-Modular Power Supplies?

As graphics card power consumption continues to increase, Intel has established new power supply standards: ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1. These standards are mainly designed to meet the high power demands of high-end graphics cards ATX 3.1 is an upgrade from ATX 3.0, focusing on improving power stability and safety.

ATX 3.0 is a new power supply standard introduced by Intel in 2022, primarily to accommodate high-wattage graphics cards. It also introduces the PCIe 5.0 12VHPWR power connector. The first graphics card to implement the 12VHPWR connector was the RTX 3090 Ti.

With the launch of the RTX 40 series, flagship graphics cards like the RTX 4090 and RTX 4080 adopted the latest 12VHPWR power connector. However, soon after release, many users reported that the power connector was overheating and even melting, leading consumers and review media to question the reliability of the 12VHPWR connector.

Although NVIDIA stated that the overheating issue was primarily due to users not fully inserting the connector, many gamers still believe it was caused by poor design of the 12VHPWR connector.

↑Graphics card damaged due to overheating connector (Image from 

ATX 3.1 is an improved version of ATX 3.0 introduced by Intel, mainly aimed at addressing the overheating and melting issues caused by the 12VHPWR power cable connector.

Improvement 1 | Power Connector Enhancement

ATX 3.1 improves upon the 12VHPWR power cable connector by adjusting the pin length to ensure a secure connection. This not only improves safety but also prevents damage due to poor contact when inserting or removing the graphics card. Additionally, the connector has been renamed to 12V-2x6.

Improvement 2 | Increased Power Supply Stability and Durability

ATX 3.1 adjusts the power hold-up time requirements. At full load, it only needs to maintain 12ms, but at 80% load, it must still maintain 17ms, improving overall stability.

The connectors for ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1 look identical, meaning users cannot distinguish them by appearance alone. Currently, the only way to differentiate them is by checking the product specifications.

darkFlash has launched the PMT series power supply, which adopts the latest ATX 3.1 standard and includes the 12V-2x6 power connector. This ensures stable and safe power delivery of up to 600W while avoiding the melting issues of ATX 3.0 connectors.

For those using RTX 40 and RTX 50 series graphics cards, the PMT series power supply is one of the most reliable choices.

↑PMT power supply 12V-2x6 cable and connector





As graphics card power consumption continues to increase, Intel has established new power supply standards: ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1. These standards are mainly designed to meet the high power demands of high-end graphics cards ATX 3.1 is an upgrade from ATX 3.0, focusing on improving power stability and safety.

 

What is an ATX 3.0 Power Supply?

ATX 3.0 is a new power supply standard introduced by Intel in 2022, primarily to accommodate high-wattage graphics cards. It also introduces the PCIe 5.0 12VHPWR power connector. The first graphics card to implement the 12VHPWR connector was the RTX 3090 Ti.

 

Key Features of ATX 3.0





Supports 12VHPWR power connector (16-pin).



A single cable can deliver up to 600W, suitable for high-end graphics cards.



Replaces multiple 8-pin power cables, reducing cable clutter.



Can handle up to 200% transient power spikes, ensuring system stability.



Controversies Surrounding ATX 3.0

With the launch of the RTX 40 series, flagship graphics cards like the RTX 4090 and RTX 4080 adopted the latest 12VHPWR power connector. However, soon after release, many users reported that the power connector was overheating and even melting, leading consumers and review media to question the reliability of the 12VHPWR connector.

 

Although NVIDIA stated that the overheating issue was primarily due to users not fully inserting the connector, many gamers still believe it was caused by poor design of the 12VHPWR connector.

 



↑Graphics card damaged due to overheating connector (Image from reddit, r/nvidia)

 

The Birth of ATX 3.1

ATX 3.1 is an improved version of ATX 3.0 introduced by Intel, mainly aimed at addressing the overheating and melting issues caused by the 12VHPWR power cable connector.

 

Key Improvements in ATX 3.1

Improvement 1 | Power Connector Enhancement

ATX 3.1 improves upon the 12VHPWR power cable connector by adjusting the pin length to ensure a secure connection. This not only improves safety but also prevents damage due to poor contact when inserting or removing the graphics card. Additionally, the connector has been renamed to 12V-2x6.







Improvement 2 | Increased Power Supply Stability and Durability

ATX 3.1 adjusts the power hold-up time requirements. At full load, it only needs to maintain 12ms, but at 80% load, it must still maintain 17ms, improving overall stability.

 

ATX 3.0 vs. ATX 3.1 Comparison

The connectors for ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1 look identical, meaning users cannot distinguish them by appearance alone. Currently, the only way to differentiate them is by checking the product specifications.







Recommended ATX 3.1 Power Supply - PMT Series

darkFlash has launched the PMT series power supply, which adopts the latest ATX 3.1 standard and includes the 12V-2x6 power connector. This ensures stable and safe power delivery of up to 600W while avoiding the melting issues of ATX 3.0 connectors.

 

For those using RTX 40 and RTX 50 series graphics cards, the PMT series power supply is one of the most reliable choices.





↑PMT power supply 12V-2x6 cable and connector

 (Image from forum.gamer.com.tw)

Power supplies have reached a new version—explore the differences after the upgrade!

ATX 3.0 and ATX 3.1 Power Supply Detailed Introduction

Building a PC can be a big challenge for DIY beginners, but it’s also an incredibly fun and rewarding process. Before starting your build, you need to understand the following key points:

Before planning your PC build, it's essential to define your specific needs. Are you building a PC for gaming, office work, content creation, or streaming?

If you don’t clarify your needs beforehand, you might end up buying incompatible components or wasting money on unnecessary parts.

Step 2: Essential Components for Building a PC

Before building your PC, you need to prepare the following components:

To help choose the right components and avoid compatibility issues, we’ll demonstrate how to use PCPartPicker for selecting and purchasing parts.

Use PCPartPicker’s system to select preferred components and brands. If a specific component is unavailable on the website, it can manually search for it on other platforms.

III. Purchase Components from Your Preferred Store

For example, if buying from Amazon, simply add the selected parts to the cart and proceed with the checkout process.

IV. Purchase From Other Platforms (If needed)

If the selected PC components are out of stock or unavailable on usual shopping websites, alternative suppliers can be found below, or local distributors can be contacted for assistance.

Magnetic Screwdriver or Electric Screwdriver

Using a magnetic screwdriver or an electric screwdriver makes component installation faster and more convenient.

After assembling the components, it's important to manage the cables. Cable ties help keep the wiring neat and organized.

Before installation, carefully read the user manuals of each component. This ensures a smooth installation process and helps prevent damage due to incorrect assembly.

With proper planning and the right tools, even beginners can successfully build a powerful and efficient PC! 





Building a PC can be a big challenge for DIY beginners, but it’s also an incredibly fun and rewarding process. Before starting your build, you need to understand the following key points:



Step 1: Determine Your Usage Needs

Before planning your PC build, it's essential to define your specific needs. Are you building a PC for gaming, office work, content creation, or streaming?



If you don’t clarify your needs beforehand, you might end up buying incompatible components or wasting money on unnecessary parts.







Step 2: Essential Components for Building a PC

Before building your PC, you need to prepare the following components:





CPU (Processor) – Responsible for executing calculations and instructions.



CPU Cooler – Helps dissipate heat from the processor to ensure optimal performance.



Motherboard – Serves as the bridge connecting all PC components.



RAM (Memory) – Temporarily stores data to speed up program execution.



Storage (SSD/HDD) – Stores system files and user data.



Graphics Card (GPU) – Handles graphics processing for gaming, video editing, and rendering tasks.



Power Supply Unit (PSU) – Provides power to all components.



PC Case – Houses all components, offering protection and extending the system’s lifespan.







Step 3: Planning Your PC Build 

(Using the PCPartPicker website as an example)



To help choose the right components and avoid compatibility issues, we’ll demonstrate how to use PCPartPicker for selecting and purchasing parts.



I. Visit the PCPartPicker Website





↑PCPartPicker



II. Select the PC Components

Use PCPartPicker’s system to select preferred components and brands. If a specific component is unavailable on the website, it can manually search for it on other platforms.







III. Purchase Components from Your Preferred Store

For example, if buying from Amazon, simply add the selected parts to the cart and proceed with the checkout process.







IV. Purchase From Other Platforms (If needed)

If the selected PC components are out of stock or unavailable on usual shopping websites, alternative suppliers can be found below, or local distributors can be contacted for assistance.





↑Purchase darkFlash DY470 on newegg



Step 4: Tools Needed for PC Build

Magnetic Screwdriver or Electric Screwdriver

Using a magnetic screwdriver or an electric screwdriver makes component installation faster and more convenient.







Cable Ties and Scissors

After assembling the components, it's important to manage the cables. Cable ties help keep the wiring neat and organized.







Component Manuals

Before installation, carefully read the user manuals of each component. This ensures a smooth installation process and helps prevent damage due to incorrect assembly.







With proper planning and the right tools, even beginners can successfully build a powerful and efficient PC! 

Here're a few things you need to know first.

Build Your Own PC! A Must-Know Guide for DIY Beginners

The development of Bluetooth technology has significantly impacted key aspects of wireless keyboards, such as connection stability, power consumption, and latency. The transition from Bluetooth 4.0 to 5.0 introduces major improvements in transmission range, connection reliability, and energy efficiency, enhancing the typing experience for wireless keyboard users.

Bluetooth 4.0, an early version of low-energy Bluetooth, is suitable for basic office tasks but lacks performance in fast typing or gaming scenarios.

Bluetooth 5.0 delivers significant advancements in transmission speed, connection stability, and reduced power consumption. For wireless keyboards, it minimizes input latency and extends battery life.

Bluetooth 5.0 offers a transformative upgrade for users seeking improved performance and reliability in wireless devices, particularly keyboards used in dynamic or demanding contexts.





The development of Bluetooth technology has significantly impacted key aspects of wireless keyboards, such as connection stability, power consumption, and latency. The transition from Bluetooth 4.0 to 5.0 introduces major improvements in transmission range, connection reliability, and energy efficiency, enhancing the typing experience for wireless keyboard users.



Features of Bluetooth 4.0

Bluetooth 4.0, an early version of low-energy Bluetooth, is suitable for basic office tasks but lacks performance in fast typing or gaming scenarios.







✅ Advantages





Energy Efficiency: Lower power consumption compared to earlier versions like Bluetooth 3.0.



Compatibility: Works with most operating systems (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android).



Office Use: Adequate for standard document input without noticeable delays.



⚠️ Limitations





Short Transmission Range: Connections may drop beyond 10 meters.



Slow Device Switching: Requires waiting time when switching between devices.







Features of Bluetooth 5.0

Bluetooth 5.0 delivers significant advancements in transmission speed, connection stability, and reduced power consumption. For wireless keyboards, it minimizes input latency and extends battery life.



✅ Advantages





Extended Range: Supports up to 40 meters indoors, ideal for larger spaces.



Lower Power Consumption: Improves keyboard battery life.



Enhanced Stability: Maintains smooth operation even in environments with interference.



Low Latency: Faster response times suitable for high-speed typing needs.



⚠️ Limitations





Higher Cost: Keyboards supporting Bluetooth 5.0 are more expensive.



Limited Compatibility with Older Devices: Devices using Bluetooth 4.0 may not fully utilize the benefits of version 5.0.



Bluetooth 4.0 vs. 5.0 Specifications





Choosing Between Bluetooth 4.0 and 5.0

Bluetooth 4.0 Keyboard Usage Scenarios





For basic office tasks and document processing.



If budget constraints exist.



When using older devices that only support Bluetooth 4.0.







Bluetooth 5.0 Keyboard Usage Scenarios





For stable connections in high-speed typing or gaming scenarios.



If longer battery life is desired.



When working in environments with potential interference or needing extended range.







Bluetooth 5.0 offers a transformative upgrade for users seeking improved performance and reliability in wireless devices, particularly keyboards used in dynamic or demanding contexts.

Quickly understand the features and differences between two generations of Bluetooth, and choose the right usage scenario.

Wireless Foundation for Smart Living: Features of Bluetooth 4.0 and 5.0

As an enthusiast of games and computer DIY in this age, we, darkFlash, feel proud and grateful for keep thinking how to develop impressive and extraordinary products with high-end facilities by assembling and using the PC cases, CPU coolers, case fans, and even gaming chairs and tables in person.

Our goal is to create products that could extremely exert its effect by every user.