The ongoing issue of melting power connectors and adapters persists with the RTX 4090, even a year after its launch. Despite NVIDIA’s upgrade to a newer 12V-2×6 standard, the problem has reemerged with the introduction of CableMod’s new adapters.
CableMod has ultimately decided to discontinue the angled adapter and provide refunds to its customers. Prior to the recall, the company had been proactively reimbursing customers for damaged GPUs. With increasing cases and board partners attributing blame to cable and adapter suppliers, sustaining the product became unfeasible.
According to NorthridgeFix, CableMod’s product was well-made but relied on a flawed foundation: the new 12VHPWR standard, also known as 12+4 or 16-pin connector. NVIDIA has since introduced a revised version of this connector for all RTX 40 models, featuring shorter sense pins to ensure the GPU only receives additional power when the cable is fully inserted. However, despite these updates, the repair shop continues to receive damaged GPUs with melted connectors, with as many as 200 connectors being replaced in a single month (a box containing these connectors was displayed). It remains unspecified whether the newer cases are based on the updated or older standard.
At present, it’s advisable to use the official NVIDIA power adapters or cables supplied by power supply manufacturers. Adapters from other sources carry a risk of overheating and melting, particularly if the connector isn’t inserted properly. Users, especially RTX 4090 owners, need to be vigilant about the power connectors on their GPUs, especially since certain models can draw up to 600W when overclocked.
In a later segment of the video, NorthridgeFix showcases the connector replacement process, which may not seem as complex as swapping out GPUs or memory modules. However, it’s still a significant concern that warrants attention. Hopefully, NVIDIA will prioritize this issue in the development of the next generation of GeForce GPUs. Currently, neither AMD nor Intel have indicated any interest in adopting the 12VHPWR or 12V-6X2 standards for their upcoming gaming GPUs.
Source & Images: NorthridgeFix