Final answer:
Molex connectors are used to distribute power from ATX power supplies to computer components including hard drives and optical drives. They use conductive metal wires insulated by rubber and plastic to ensure safe and efficient power distribution within a computer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Molex connectors are used in a computer to provide power connections from an Advanced Technology Extended (ATX) power supply to various devices. These connectors are essential for supplying power to components such as hard drives, optical drives, and sometimes even directly to the motherboard. The use of Molex connectors in a computer power supply system is crucial because they help to distribute electrical power from the ATX power supply to the required parts of the computer, ensuring all components receive the correct voltage and current needed to function properly.
ATX power supplies and Molex connectors use metal wires and plastic insulations similar to those described for conducting electricity from a wall socket to a laptop computer. Metal wires, such as copper, are excellent conductors because they allow electrons to move freely. These conductors are wrapped in insulating materials like rubber and plastic, preventing electric charge from escaping and offering protection against electrical shocks.