GPU Malfunction: 16-pin issue leads to RTX 5090 Founders Edition failure in the hands of seasoned reviewer, user suggests possibility of user error despite decades of GPU testing experience.
John Papadopoulos, the editor-in-chief of DSOGaming, recently encountered a power connector meltdown while playing the game Wuchang: Fallen Feathers on his RTX 5090 Founders Edition graphics card. Despite ensuring the power connector was fully seated and using only the official cable, Papadopoulos experienced a melted 12V-2x6 power connector.
This issue is not new to the PC gaming community, as similar incidents have been reported with Nvidia's RTX 40-series GPUs. Papadopoulos admits that the melted power connector could have been a user error, but finds it concerning that the cable could come loose, even after being pressed in firmly.
The problem seems to be related to the incomplete or loose insertion of the 12VHPWR power cable, which causes overheating and melting of the connectors. Hardware analysis points to the design of the cable and GPU interface as a factor, with uneven current distribution and partial connection causing "hot spots" with overloaded pins leading to melting.
Nvidia and enthusiasts recommend using only official or certified cables and ensuring a full insertion until a click is felt to avoid these issues. The newer "H++ standard" 12V-2x6 cables, used in the RTX 50-series, feature improvements to reduce the risk of voltage supply before full connection, but problems persist if the cable is not perfectly seated.
In summary, while RTX 50-series GPUs like John Papadopoulos's RTX 5090 have experienced power connector melting, it appears linked to cable seating issues rather than a universal manufacturing defect. Caution with cable installation remains essential to prevent such incidents.
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- John Papadopoulos, the editor-in-chief of DSOGaming, encountered a power connector issue while playing games on his RTX 5090, leading him to question whether the problem is with the cable design or insertion, not limited to RTX 50-series GPUs alone.
- Despite the introduction of the "H++ standard" 12V-2x6 cables in the RTX 50-series, issues with cable seating still persist, emphasizing the importance of careful installation to prevent power connector melting incidents.
