RTX 5090 Power Connector Issues: Deja vu All Over Again?
“Ah shit, here we go again.” this sentiment likely echoed through the minds of many PC enthusiasts when news broke of melted power connectors and damaged power supplies (PSUs) associated with Nvidia‘s new RTX 5090 Founders Edition GPUs. The issue, eerily reminiscent of similar problems plaguing the RTX 4090 launch two years ago, has reignited concerns about the reliability of Nvidia’s 12VHPWR power connector.
Reports surfaced on Reddit and YouTube, showcasing burnt plastic at both the PSU and GPU ends of the 12VHPWR power cable.One Reddit user, who upgraded from an RTX 4090 to an RTX 5090, noticed a burning smell while playing “Battlefield 5” before discovering the damage.Another, Spanish youtuber Toro Tocho, experienced the same issue while using a cable supplied by PSU manufacturer FSP.
These incidents raise serious questions about the safety and longevity of the 12VHPWR connector, especially given its high power draw. The RTX 5090, capable of consuming up to 575 watts over the 12VHPWR connector, puts important stress on this connection.
The 12VHPWR connector, introduced by Nvidia with its RTX 40-series GPUs, was initially met with controversy. Early reports of melting connectors led to investigations and finger-pointing between Nvidia and the PCI-SIG, the standards institution responsible for the connector.
PCI-SIG eventually acknowledged the design flaws and introduced a revised 12V-2×6 connector,featuring shorter sensing pins and longer conductor terminals. This change, according to Corsair, “matters in ensuring that the power cable has been properly connected to whatever device is going to be pulling power from your system’s power supply.”
While Nvidia has adopted the 12V-2×6 connector on its RTX 50-series GPUs, existing 12VHPWR cables can still be used.However, PSU manufacturers like Corsair and MSI have implemented colored pins on thier 12VHPWR cables to visually indicate proper connection. If you see yellow or gray pins, it means the connector isn’t seated correctly.
Despite the updated connector, the 12VHPWR standard has faced criticism. Some industry experts have even labeled it a ”dumpster fire,” citing design oversights that make it easy for users to improperly connect the cable.
The recent RTX 5090 incidents highlight the ongoing challenges associated with the 12VHPWR connector. While the updated 12V-2×6 connector offers improvements,user error and potential manufacturing inconsistencies remain concerns.
What can PC builders and gamers do to protect themselves?
Double-check your connections: Ensure the 12VHPWR connector is fully and securely seated in both the GPU and PSU. Look for colored pins on your cable to confirm proper connection.
Consider upgrading to a 12V-2×6 PSU: Newer PSUs with the updated connector offer enhanced reliability.
Monitor your system temperatures: Keep an eye on your GPU and PSU temperatures during demanding tasks. excessive heat can exacerbate connector issues.
Stay informed: Follow industry news and updates regarding the 12VHPWR connector.
The 12VHPWR saga underscores the importance of careful component selection and vigilant system maintenance. While the RTX 5090 offers impressive performance,potential power connector issues serve as a reminder that even cutting-edge technology can have its flaws.
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news, [Expert Name].Thanks for joining us today to discuss the recent RTX 5090 power connector issues.
Expert: My pleasure. It’s a hot topic right now.
Time.news Editor: Certainly is! It truly seems like déjà vu all over again with the RTX 4090 issues from a couple of years back.
Expert: Exactly! We saw reports of melted connectors and damaged power supplies, eerily similar to what happened with the RTX 4090 launch.It’s worrying for gamers and PC builders who rely on a stable and reliable system.
Time.news Editor: Users are understandably concerned about the safety and longevity of the 12VHPWR connector, especially given the RTX 5090’s 575-watt power draw.Can you tell us more about the history of this connector and the steps taken to address the initial concerns?
Expert: The 12VHPWR connector was introduced by Nvidia with the RTX 40 series. It was controversial right from the start due to reports of melting connectors.This led to investigations and finger-pointing between Nvidia and the PCI-SIG, the standards body responsible for the connector.
Time.news Editor: And what was the outcome of those investigations?
Expert: PCI-SIG eventually acknowledged the design flaws and introduced a revised 12V-2×6 connector. This version has shorter sensing pins and longer conductor terminals, which should help prevent improper connections and mitigate the risk of overheating. [[1]]
Time.news Editor: so, Nvidia is using this updated connector on the RTX 50 series, right?
Expert: Yes, they have adopted the 12V-2×6 connector on their RTX 50-series GPUs.
time.news Editor: But what about existing 12VHPWR cables?
Expert: Existing cables can still be used, but PSU manufacturers like Corsair and MSI are implementing colored pins on their 12VHPWR cables. If you see yellow or gray pins, it means the connector isn’t seated properly. [[2]]
Time.news Editor: And despite these changes, we’re still seeing melted connectors?
Expert: Sadly, yes. There have been reports of RTX 5090 power connector issues, highlighting that user error and potential manufacturing inconsistencies remain concerns. [[3]]
Time.news Editor: That’s troubling. What advice would you give PC builders and gamers to stay safe?
Expert: First and foremost, double-check your connections. Ensure the 12VHPWR connector is fully and securely seated in both the GPU and PSU. Look for those colored pins to confirm proper connection.
Time.news Editor:
Excellent. Any other tips?
Expert: Consider upgrading to a 12V-2×6 PSU if you have an older system. It’s a worthwhile investment for enhanced reliability.Also, always monitor your system temperatures, especially during demanding tasks. Excessive heat can exacerbate connector issues. stay informed. Keep an eye on industry news and updates regarding the 12VHPWR connector.
Time.news Editor: Awesome.Thank you for your time and valuable insights, [Expert Name]!
expert: My pleasure.