In early 2024, Asus introduced the Graphics Card High-Power (GC-HPWR) connector as part of their Back-To-the-Future (BTF) initiative to simplify PC builds by hiding cables. This design allowed compatible graphics cards to draw power directly from the motherboard, eliminating external power cables. While the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero BTF motherboard supported this system, widespread adoption never materialized. Asus is now reintroducing the GC-HPWR connector with their new B850 motherboards for AMD’s Ryzen 9000 CPUs.
Asus introduced its high-power graphics card socket design, known as the Graphics Card High-Power (GC-HPWR) connector, in early 2024. It was part of their Back-To-the-Future (BTF) initiative, aimed at creating cleaner PC interiors by concealing cables.
The GC-HPWR connector allowed compatible graphics AIBs to receive power directly through the motherboard, eliminating the need for external power cables. The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero BTF motherboard was among the first to feature this design, providing a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot aligned with the GC-HPWR connector for seamless integration with BTF graphics cards.
But no one else adopted it. AMD, Intel, and Nvidia didn’t use it, and without them, no other AIB supplier would touch it. So, it was forgotten about—by everyone except Asus.
Today, Asus is going to give it another try. Since they built AIBs, they can build one with extra pins.
Asus’ new cable-free design for future graphics AIBs has been initiated with its next generation of B850 motherboards for AMD’s Ryzen 9000 CPUs. These boards feature the GC-HPWR connector, which can supply up to 600W directly to a compatible graphics AIB without requiring external power cables. This approach simplifies the overall design and reduces the risks associated with traditional AIB power connections. It also addresses concerns about power cable reliability, particularly following reports of issues with Nvidia graphics cards and their connectors. And, it reduces costs for the AIB suppliers by eliminating a cable—what’s not to like?
The TUF Gaming B850-BTF WiFi W motherboard is the first in this new lineup to feature the GC-HPWR connector. It supports Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 CPUs, including models like the 9950X3D. Designed as a midrange AMD board, it includes features such as EXPO support, PCIe 5.0 for the x16 slot, and PCIe 4.0 for other connections. It also offers Wi-Fi 7, 2.5 Gbps Ethernet, and USB4 connectivity.
Asus hasn’t announced any new AIBs with the GC-HPWR connector or suggested what the pricing or release date would be for the B850 board yet.
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