Intel Introduces New ATX PSU Specifications

Intel has published the most significant update to industry power supply specifications since the initial ATX 2.0 specs were introduced in 2003. Updated ATX 3.0 specifications unlock the potential of next-generation hardware and upcoming components built for technologies like PCIe Gen 5.0. Intel has also revised its ATX12VO spec to provide the PC industry with an updated blueprint for designing power supply units and motherboards that reduce power draw at idle.

“Power supplies based on ATX 3.0 and ATX12VO 2.0 will ensure anyone looking to get the most stable and cost-optimized performance possible with highest power efficiency out of their desktop PCs will be able to do so - both now and in the future,“ said Stephen Eastman, Intel platform power specialist.

A new 12VHPWR connector will power most, if not all, future PCIe 5.0 desktop Add-in cards. This new connector provides up to 600 watts directly to any PCIe 5.0 Add-in/graphics card. It also includes sideband signals that will allow the power supply to communicate the power limit it can provide to any PCIe 5.0 graphic card. ATX12VO 2.0 also adds the I_PSU% feature, previously available on mobile and server platforms, to desktops. This feature provides benefits to small-form-factor systems that can’t employ larger power supplies.  It also provides cost efficiencies for OEMs as they are better able to right-size PSU selection to meet system requirements.

With ATX 3.0 and ATX12VO 2.0 specs, compliant PSUs coming to market will be essential for desktop users that want to get the best possible performance from their next-gen PCIe 5.0 desktop graphics cards. These next-gen cards are going to be bigger and more powerful than before. Users will be able to maximize their system performance by having the proper power supplies in place. Beyond system performance, the ATX12VO spec is going to be integral to helping the PC industry meet multiple governmental energy regulations. The new specifications will have a positive impact on power and performance improvements across all desktop segments - from full-size towers to SFF systems - including a smaller connector, more flexible board designs, and improved energy conversions.

MSI recently launched the first ATX12VO-based desktop systems - the Creator P100A and the MPG Trident AS - which are powered by 12th Gen Intel Core processors and an ATX12VO compliant PSU. Additional products based on the new ATX 3.0 and ATX12VO 2.0 specifications are expected to arrive throughout 2022.