Intel to Unveil ATX12VO V3: New Power Standard with Enhanced Efficiency

Intel is preparing the third revision of the ATX12VO (Advanced Technology eXtended 12-Volt Only) standard, first introduced in 2020. The primary goal of the standard was to simplify power supply circuitry and reduce production costs by eliminating 3.3V and 5V rails. In the new ATX12VO V3 version, Intel aims to refine the approach further by removing the standby rail and keeping only the main 12V line active.

According to Intel’s internal tests, the new architecture reduces power consumption by 29% in idle mode and by 12% under workloads compared to traditional multi-rail solutions. Additionally, the standard introduces Low Power and High Power modes to enhance safety and efficiency. Physical connectors will also see significant changes: an 8-pin connector will replace the 10-pin version, reducing motherboard space usage by 83% compared to the classic 24-pin connector.

Another key innovation is the support for the PMBus interface, widely used in server systems. The new 8-pin connector will include four additional contacts for transmitting data on voltage, current, temperature, and other power supply parameters. This will enable users and system builders to access detailed power supply performance information. The standard also supports the I_PSU% signal, providing real-time power supply load data to prevent unexpected system shutdowns.

The new standard targets compact desktop systems and OEM pre-built PCs. The official announcement of ATX12VO V3 may take place at Computex 2026, though exact timelines remain unconfirmed.