The maximum PCI-E specification of a PCI-E 8-pin connector is 150W, not 360W. The maximum specification for a 6-pin PCI-E connector is 75W.
https://image.ibb.co/i495Cw/Screenshot_from_2017_12_02_13_05_36.pngThe PCI-E specification is not just based on wire gauge. It's also based on power delivery. Wires and connectors have resistance. The voltage drop and power dissipation as heat increase as you increase the current. The resistance of connectors also tends to increase as they are plugged and unplugged so after enough uses they can overheat and even melt when passing a large current. Which is why it's NOT safe to overload a 8-pin connector with more than the rated specification. ESPECIALLY for a mining rig under constant high load 24/7.
Yes that is rated to the pcie pins including the socket and connectors. I'm saying wire wise there is no issue for 1 8 pin into 2 8pin. 150w limit is to the Socket on gpu side which is still draw of 1 gpu, on psu side the 150w limit is not true. Howevery I do agree that through the entire connection, the highest stress point is at the psu 8pin connection sockets. If any overdraw happens this is where it is most likely to heat up first.
Brand of PSu is very important, that why we are paying more for the corsairs, all the ratings are standards to abide to at minimum but good brands always surpass them by quite abit. I have tried running the hx1200 at 1400w for almost 3 months 24/7 ambient temp at 28c with no issues. Hence the confidence for their build. Of cos this does not apply to any other brands.
