Since the widespread acceptance of the SATA specification release in 2003 there has been a growing interest in the difference between ATA and SATA power supplies. A power supply is not differentiated in title as SATA or ATA, however, power supplies may or may not support both specifications evenly or at all. Determining the differences in power supply capabilities for either is an easy task for any computer user.
Basic Differences
The ATA device specification uses a four pin "Molex" connector to power devices while the SATA specification uses a modular plug connector. These power sources are not cross compatible. ATA power sources will, however, power other devices within a computer, such as extra fans, lighting, and liquid cooling devices. SATA power sources, at this time, do not support powering any devices other than drives. This is why there is usually a mixture of both power sources for any given power supply.
Physical Connectors
The Molex ATA connector and SATA connector have a few differences worth noting. ATA power connectors possess no locking mechanism to secure them to a device. These connectors rely on friction to maintain a secure connection to any device. SATA connectors have a locking mechanism, however, it is quite fragile and may break under the excessive force of a pulled cable. The modular design of the SATA connector also provides for protected conductors while the open ended nature of the Molex connector leaves the conductors open to possible bending damage, which happens often.
Cable Management
SATA cables, by being modular in design, are composed of one cable that encloses all of the conductors within it. This leads to easier cable management and thermal design. ATA power sources leave all four wires independently encased and free. This can, and often does, lead to poor cable management. Further, the cables are prone to movement, which can even lead to them being sucked into the CPU or case fans depending on your specific internal topology.
Compatibility
While a purely ATA power supply can be converted to SATA, and vice versa, you will find fewer devices requiring ATA power sources as SATA has quickly taken the lion's share of the market. Many motherboards at this time are beginning to completely forgo the addition of EIDE ports, which in turn negates the need for Molex ATA connectors. This being said, there is no use in purchasing an ATA power supply, unless it is absolutely needed for a current computer.
Modularity
Power supply modularity is the ability of a power supply to disconnect unneeded cables from its main housing. This feature is newer amongst power supplies and is highly sought after for cable management reasons. SATA cables are usually always found to be modular on these power supplies. ATA cables are much less often made modular and still require space within a computer case regardless of whether they are being used or not. Due to this, it is advantageous for computer owners to attempt a SATA compatible computer.
Tags: power sources, power supplies, Molex connector, power supply, cable management, however power