We have a major issue with RTX 4090 12VHPWR, let me explain
What's a newly launched product without glaring issues? Especially when there is a wide scale of complex problems. You always see it with smartphones, computers, and other consumer gadgets. But what's taking place with RTX 4090 graphics card is a rarity. Nvidia's highest-end GPU uses an all-new connector, or "12VHPWR". The acronym for "twelve-volt high power" Is a small twelve-pin plug that supplies 600 watts of power.
Here's the glaring issue, the included adapter for the GeForce RTX 4090 that converts four legacy eight-pin power connectors to a single 12VHPWR is melting. Yes, a significant problem can cause major damage to a thousand-dollar graphics card.
Via Reddit, users have included pictures of the melted power connector along with their complaints. The primary cause of the melting connector is, according to Nvidia, heavy tension and bending of the wire. I posted several more images below. The GeForce RTX 4090 graphics cards use the same official adapter --none of these power connectors appear to be bent.
Before the GeForce RTX 4090 was launched, there were signs that future issues would arise. For example, when PCI-SIG ratified the 12VHPWR connector, it explained in a written document that applying tension to the cable or using it for more than 40 plug-unplug cycles can cause the connector to overheat.
Image Source: Igor’s Lab
The main culprit could be a faulty design. In their test, Igor's Lab, a website, cut the wires and opened the adapters revealing a fatal design flaw. These photos I posted( courtesy of the website) show poor soldering, and the GPU connector can easily be broken.
Nvidia has rapidly rectified this issue by contacting any consumer who purchased RTX 4090 graphics card and is offering a replacement. There are even reports Nvidia is demanding damaged cards from consumers. I don't think I have ever witnessed a forced recall from a company. However, if any of your readers purchased this $1599 graphics card and it's damaged, take full advantage of the replacement offering from the company.
