Graphics Card High-Power (GC-HPWR), a finger connector that ASUS introduced as part of its BTF (Back-to-The-Future) ecosystem to power GPUs without the need for traditional cabling (e.g., 6/8-pin PCIe and 12VHPWR/12V-2×6 cables), will soon be available in an updated format that is capable of delivering up to 1,000 watts of power for next-gen graphics cards, according to new diagrams for the connector that have been shared online.
“Instead of completely doing without the sockets for PCIe and 12VHPWR/12V-2×6, ASUS will offer both these and the GC-HPWR on the graphics cards,” hardwareLUXX, which shared the images today, explained in its coverage, noting that the “GC-HPWR will be moved back so that such a card can also be used on non-BTF motherboards. In addition, the new, metal-reinforced GC-HPWR can be removed from the graphics card.”
“ASUS claims to have achieved a lower contact resistance,” the outlet added. “This should mean that the temperatures for the connection are lower – even at 600+ W. ASUS has specified the GC-HPWR and the HPCE counterpart on the mainboard for up to 1,000 W. Its own tests should show that no dangers or problems with the temperature are to be expected.”
News of the revised GC-HPWR connector come a week after ASUS announced that its BTF hidden-connector ecosystem would be expanding with not only a new AIO cooler, but also new motherboards under its popular ROG and TUF Gaming brands.
“The [ROG Maximus Z890 Hero BTF] has a 12V auxiliary power connector that routes power through the center of the board,” ASUS noted for one of its latest premium motherboards. “With a compatible BTF graphics card, you won’t have a GPU power cable muddying up your view of your PC’s internal hardware.”