axGear Dual SATA to PCI-E Power Cable (SATA-6P8P) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the installation and proper use of the axGear Dual SATA to PCI-E Power Cable. This cable is designed to supply power to a PCI-E video card from two 15-pin SATA power connectors available from your computer's power supply unit (PSU).

It is intended for systems where the PSU lacks a dedicated 6-pin or 8-pin PCI-E power connector, or does not have enough available PCI-E connectors for the video card's requirements.

2. Safety Information

• Always ensure your computer is powered off and unplugged from the wall outlet before installing or removing any internal components or cables.
• Verify that your power supply unit (PSU) has sufficient wattage and available SATA power connectors to support the video card's power requirements. Overloading a PSU can lead to system instability or damage.
• Ensure all connections are firm and secure. Loose connections can cause electrical arcing and potential damage.
• Do not force connectors. Align them correctly before applying gentle pressure.
• Avoid bending the cable sharply, as this can damage the internal wiring.
• If you notice any unusual heat, smoke, or burning smell, immediately power off and unplug your computer.

3. Product Overview

The axGear Dual SATA to PCI-E Power Cable features two 15-pin SATA male connectors and one 8-pin (6+2 pin) PCI-E female connector. The 8-pin PCI-E connector is designed to be versatile, allowing it to be used as either an 8-pin or a 6-pin connector by detaching the two additional pins.

Figure 1: Overall view of the axGear Dual SATA to PCI-E Power Cable.

Figure 2: Detail of the two 15-pin SATA male connectors.

Figure 3: Detail of the 8-pin (6+2 pin) PCI-E female connector.

4. Setup and Installation

Follow these steps to properly install the axGear Dual SATA to PCI-E Power Cable:

1. Power Down System: Turn off your computer completely and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
2. Open Computer Case: Remove the side panel of your computer case to access the internal components.
3. Locate SATA Power Connectors: Identify two available 15-pin SATA power connectors from your computer's power supply unit (PSU). These are typically used for hard drives or SSDs.
4. Connect SATA Ends: Plug the two 15-pin SATA male connectors of the axGear cable firmly into the available SATA power connectors from your PSU. Ensure they click into place.
5. Determine Video Card Requirement: Check your video card's specifications to determine if it requires a 6-pin or an 8-pin PCI-E power connection.
6. Adjust PCI-E Connector (if necessary):
   • If your video card requires a 6-pin PCI-E connection, carefully detach the two extra pins from the 8-pin (6+2 pin) connector.
   • If your video card requires an 8-pin PCI-E connection, keep the 8-pin connector intact.
7. Connect PCI-E End: Plug the 6-pin or 8-pin PCI-E female connector of the axGear cable into the corresponding power input on your video card. Ensure it is securely seated.
8. Cable Management: Route the cable neatly within your computer case to avoid obstructing airflow or interfering with other components.
9. Close Case and Power On: Replace the computer case side panel, plug the power cord back into the wall outlet, and power on your computer.

5. Operating Instructions

Once correctly installed, the axGear Dual SATA to PCI-E Power Cable operates passively, providing the necessary power conversion from your PSU's SATA lines to your video card's PCI-E power input. No additional software or configuration is required for the cable itself.

Ensure that your system's power supply is stable and capable of delivering the combined power required by all components, including the video card, to ensure optimal performance and system stability.

6. Maintenance

The axGear Dual SATA to PCI-E Power Cable requires minimal maintenance. To ensure longevity and reliable performance:

• Keep the cable free from dust and debris. Periodically inspect connections for any accumulation.
• Avoid placing heavy objects on the cable or subjecting it to excessive tension.
• Ensure the cable is not pinched or sharply bent, as this can damage the internal conductors.
• If you need to disconnect the cable, always grasp the connector housing, not the wires, to prevent damage.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues after installing the axGear Dual SATA to PCI-E Power Cable, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• No Power to Video Card:
  • Verify that both 15-pin SATA connectors are fully seated into the PSU's SATA power cables.
  • Ensure the PCI-E connector is securely plugged into the video card.
  • Confirm that the PSU is powered on and functioning correctly.
• System Instability or Crashes:
  • This can indicate that your PSU is not providing enough power for your video card and other components. Check your PSU's wattage and compare it to the total power draw of your system, especially the video card.
  • Ensure that the SATA power connectors you are using are from different cables from the PSU, if possible, to distribute the load.
  • Monitor the cable and connectors for excessive heat. If the cable or connectors become unusually hot, immediately power down your system. This could indicate that the cable's wire gauge is insufficient for the power draw, or your PSU is being overloaded.
• Incorrect PCI-E Connector Fit:
  • Double-check if your video card requires a 6-pin or 8-pin connector. If it requires 6-pin, ensure the 2 detachable pins are removed from the 8-pin connector.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Specific warranty information for this product is not provided in the available details. For warranty claims or technical support, please refer to the retailer or the manufacturer, axGear, directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.