Let's Take a Closer Look at The RTX 5090 melting Connector Cable Issue
The RTX 5090 cable melting issue is a perfect example of Deja Vu in the tech world. Nvidia's new Blackwell series graphics cards reportedly face-melting power connector problems. These issues are reminiscent of those experienced by the earlier RTX 4090, causing alarm among tech enthusiasts and gamers alike. Let's thoroughly analyze the situation of the RTX 5090 melting connector cable. This examination will help uncover the details surrounding the ongoing concerns with this graphic card.
What is Happening Here?
As reported on Reddit, a known user who goes by the handle ivan6953 shared images of his RTX 5090 Founders Edition having a melted connector. According to a Reddit user report, the issue occurred while playing Battlefield 5, with a power draw of 500-520 watts. After noticing a distinctive burning, he immediately shut off his PC, discovering extensive damage to the connectors on both sides of the cable and burn damage to the Asus ROG Loki power supply unit.
The Root Cause
Official findings suggest the melting connector is likely caused by a Moddiy 12V 2x6 connector cable, which is not the official cable provided with the RTX 5090 by Nvidia. The official cable is long and flexible, and it features an angled connector on the side of the graphics card, preventing improper insertion.
History Repeats itself
This isn't the first time there has been a melting connector issue with an Nvidia graphics card. The RTX 4090 series GPUs experienced a similar problem, primarily due to connectors not being fully inserted. The solution? The PCI-SIG updated the 12VHWR connector to the 12V-2x6 version, featuring much shorter sensing pins and extended conductor terminals, improving overall reliability.
Image Source: DeBauer
Similar User Experiences
Several users reported similar issues, with some attributing the problem to third-party cables. A known YouTuber named “Toro Tocho” also experienced a melted 12VHWR cable while using a cable supplied by PSU manufacturer FSP. While adequately connected, the cable melted at the GPU's and PSU's ends.
Image source: Reddit
The Corporate Response
Nvidia has assured consumers that the melting cable issue with the RTX 4090 is less likely to happen with the RTX 5090; the official cables are explicitly designed to prevent any issue regarding melting connector cables. However, many users cite an uneven power distribution across the cable pins as the main culprit.
Image Source: Nvidia
Coming to Conclusion
The RTX 5090 melting cable issue concerns those considering purchasing this GPU. This problem is primarily associated with third-party cables. Nvidia has responded by enhancing the design of the connectors. Users are advised to use official cables exclusively, preventing potential problems.
