--Filip--

This is simple: your motherboard shorts two wires on the 20 or 24 pin connector on your PSU allowing it to function. You can find special adapters that short these wires on www.frozencpu.com so you can use it with a peltier etc or just if you want a second PSU for fans or something. I think Plague shows how to do it in the 'Building a Peltier PSU' thread.

I've seen a lot of people RMA PSU's because when they plug it into the wall it doesn't turn on...so I thought I would clarify.

Mr. Mumbles

very nice i never knew that

The Bartender Paradox

you misspelled motherboard in the title

--Filip--

Whoops, thanks!

SpookedJunglist

Umm and if you want to know how to do it just check out the FAQ i made a while back on how to do this
here it is http://www.overclock.net/faqs/15751-info-can-i-use-two-power.html

--Filip--

Ahh I knew I'd seen an FAQ for that, thanks SJ.

Mjolnir

You might change your title to read "without being plugged into my motherboard", it'll make more sense.

ldk

Thanks, dude. Had no clue until I saw this post. I have a brand new, custom sleeved PSU in the corner now waiting for a new project cuz of you. I spent a week-end sleeving it, plugged it only to find it didnt work. Spent $100 to get a new PSU (Ultra X-connect which I love) and put the other away. Now I'll have to build a new rig!

--Filip--

Awwwww snap! :D

Lethargic Squirrel

I find it incredible that anyone who knows how to sleeve the damn things and build an entire machine would possibly think that the PSU is bad because it wasn't connected to the motherboard... it seems ludicrous, really... I'm not trying to insult anyone, honestly, it just boggles my mind.