Is there a difference between 20 pin and 20+4 pin power supply connector?

[techs]

I want to stock only one model and would like it to be a 20+4 pin so I can use it on any computer. Is the only difference between 20 and 20+4 that the additional 4 pin 12 volt connector is detachable or is there a real power specification difference? In other words is a 20+4 pin going to work fine on the mobos that need a 24 pin connector?

[rgharper]

The 20+4 power supply with the removable 4-pin extension cable will work interchangeably with either the 20-pin supply or the 24-pin supply. The only thing you need to watch for is the older 4-pin motherboard connector - not all 20/24 convertable supplies also come with that connector.

[confus-ed]

You can buy the additional converter cable very cheaply though .. pennies almost literally

I have a big stack of them & sata power converters also

BUT it has gotten much harder to plan for this, so I can definately see the point of the question , but so far I don't agree with Mr Harpers statement -

The 20+4 power supply with the removable 4-pin extension cable will work interchangeably with either the 20-pin supply or the 24-pin supply..

& I quote this as evidence, as I haven't time just now to offer a 'confus-ed explanation' - but I'm sure for once the enquirer actually has his facts straight

[slgrieb]

Oh, let's not forget those wonderful Dell 24 pin power supplies that aren't compatible with anything else on the planet.

[Stryfe]

Oh, let's not forget those wonderful Dell 24 pin power supplies that aren't compatible with anything else on the planet.

I must disagree. Dell is actually sticking to the ATX and ATX2 power pin-outs on their PSUs. At least for the newer systems. Older systems were (and are) proprietary and a complete pain in the arse to work on.

--Lavos

[slgrieb]

Yes, Stryfe, but you know the ones I mean, and the 20 pin abominations too.