I. What is a modular power supply?
In practice, modular power supplies originated in the server field; in other words, only servers use modular power supplies. We know that servers must run continuously after being powered on, because a power outage caused by negligence will inevitably result in losses.
To prevent this from happening, servers typically use modular power supplies. If the power supply module in operation fails, the other modules can quickly take over. Just like an airplane in the sky, if the engine fails, the backup engine will start immediately.
In other words, calling desktop PC power supplies "modular power supplies" is inappropriate. After all, a desktop PC power supply only has one power supply module and fundamentally lacks the ability to instantly activate a backup power supply module in the event of a power supply failure. If we insist on attaching the "modular" label to desktop PC power supplies, then only those higher-end power supplies with power cord modules can barely be considered modular.
Desktop modular power supplies actually refer to those power supplies with power cord modules.
II. What are the uses of modular power supplies?
With the continuous development of IT hardware and software, the standard configuration of most mainstream power supplies—one 20+4 pin main power connector, four 4+4 pin CPU +12V power connectors, one 6 pin PCI-E +12V power connector, three 4 pin D-type connectors, one floppy drive power connector, and four SATA hard drive power connectors—is no longer sufficient to meet the "basic needs" of high-end users. These advanced users might need five SATA connectors, six 6 pin PCI-E +12V power connectors, and many more…
If all these interface cables were directly connected to the power supply, it would inevitably become very messy, truly a case of "cannot be cut, and it's even more messy if you try to organize them." In this case, connecting the basic interface cables directly to the power supply, and connecting the remaining interface cables that might be used to the power supply through modules, becomes the only solution. This has led to a feature that is only found in relatively high-end power supplies—(interface cable) modular design.
Modular power supplies are not commonly used, but multi-GPU parallel systems are one example. We know that NVIDIA and ATI each have their own multi-GPU parallel technologies; NVIDIA cards can support 4-way SLI, while ATI cards can support 4-way CrossFire. And let's not forget that MSI's BigBang Fuzion motherboard can also support A/N mixed configurations. Regardless of whether these parallel technologies can achieve the desired synergy (1+1=2), one thing is certain: to make these multi-GPU platforms run, a modular power supply is essential.
In addition, RAID storage array systems also require modular power supplies. For some users, building a RAID 5 disk array requires at least three hard drives, while RAID 10 requires five hard drives. In such cases, it is obviously impossible without a modular power supply.
III. Precautions for Module Power Supply
Modular power supplies are mostly positioned in the high-end market, with a capacity of at least 500W and above. Their workmanship is exquisite, and the interface modules are also very well made. However, frequent plugging and unplugging can still cause damage to the interfaces and poor contact, so it is recommended that users avoid frequent plugging and unplugging when using them.
Of course, for inexperienced beginners, connecting the power cord to the modular power supply is not an easy task. As I understand it, the interface of modular power supplies is protected by patents, meaning other manufacturers cannot design their modular power supplies according to the same specifications.
This has forced many manufacturers to "go their own way" and "seek distinctive features" in the design of modular power supplies, ultimately resulting in a situation of "a hundred flowers blooming and a hundred flowers blooming." However, the original modular interface has become an issue that consumers need to pay attention to.
First, some modular power interface cables on the market are not reversible, which makes it easy to plug them in incorrectly, and the consequences of plugging them in incorrectly can be serious—burning out the equipment. We need to pay attention to this special situation.
