What is a common issue with older power supplies when upgrading to new processors?

A common issue with older power supplies when upgrading to new processors is that they may not have enough connectors to support the additional power requirements of modern components. As technology evolves, newer processors and graphics cards often require specific power connectors and increased wattage to function correctly. Older power supplies typically do not have the required connectors, such as 8-pin or even 12-pin PCIe connectors, which are standard in newer hardware.

This limitation can hinder the upgrade process, as insufficient power connectors can lead to system instability or failure to boot. While power supplies can be too large for certain builds, the size is not as critical as the compatibility concerning power connectors. Voltage discrepancies do happen, but modern components are generally designed to operate within a standardized voltage range, making the connector issue more prevalent. Also, while compatibility with graphics cards can be a concern, it is more a product of the specific power needs rather than a universal problem associated with older power supplies. Thus, the need for adequate connectors is a key aspect to consider when upgrading system components.