Ok, this video card I'm getting recommends that the power supply it is connected to put out 26A on the +12V rail.
I've found some power supplies that give it all out on one: +12V @ 30A
and then there are some that give it out on two: +12V1 @ 16A & +12V2 @ 14A
^^^ are these 2 the same thing? Will my video card still be able to use 26A?
it doesn't matter if your amperage is divided between rails, but a single rail usually is the better choice.
No, they are not the same. Be safe and get the single
One giant rail is enough. And look for a PSU with a very high amps on that rail. 174A is much like a retard stucked his head in a toiletbowl.=P But it is futureproof though.
Do 2 rails perform worse than 1?
I'm only hooking this up to a 9800gt and a core 2 duo @ 2.13ghz, does 1 rail vs 2 make a difference here?
Single rails are more reliable but in the case it won't make a bit of difference, just depends on the brands of the power supplies.
stick with corsair, antec, pc power and cooling, cooler master, and ocz. in that order.
so, something like this (its cheap i know): http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817148038