ASUS Addresses Q-Release Reports: Clarifies PCIe Mechanism Only Causes Minor GPU Wear

ASUS has recently addressed concerns about its Q-Release PCIe mechanism found on the 800-series motherboards, stating that while some minor scratches and signs of wear may occur after repeated insertions and removals, significant damage to GPUs or motherboards is unlikely.

ASUS Responds to Concerns Over Q-Release PCIe Mechanism

The tech community has been buzzing with reports of potential GPU damage associated with the Q-Release mechanism on ASUS’s latest 800-series motherboards. In light of these reports, ASUS has issued a clarification regarding the matter.

In a recent communication, ASUS refuted claims that the Q-Release mechanism could lead to serious GPU damage. They suggested that, based on their internal testing, the most that can be expected is minimal scratching similar to what occurs with any PCIe add-in card over time. They emphasized that these findings are consistent across various types of PCIe interfaces.

ASUS’s statement included the following important points:

By following these guidelines, the new design performs similarly to traditional PCIe slots, leaving only usage marks under normal usage frequency. While it performs similarly, it is significantly simpler and easier to remove the graphics card and allows the user to do so without any tools which can directly or inadvertently damage the slot, motherboard and or graphics card. This design also reduces possible mechanical conflicts.

In our internal testing and evaluation of the extremely small number of cases reported, we found no damage to the motherboard or graphics card that would affect functionality and or performance. However, it is important to emphasize that any type of PCIe add-in card will exhibit signs of usage and wear marking after 60 continuous insertions and removals. Additionally, if the installation and removal are not performed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, the likelihood of scratches and or wear may increase. Despite this, we have found no impact on the functionality of either the graphics card or the motherboard.

For those currently using ASUS motherboards with the PCIe Q-Release Slim design, there is no need for concern. Simply follow the official removal guidelines to avoid any potential damage. We note minimal effort is required and excessive force should not be applied. If you encounter any specific issues or abnormalities, ASUS will take full responsibility and handle them. We are committed to ensuring service and support for our customers; please contact ASUS customer service for assistance or more information.

– ASUS

Previously, several users highlighted damage to their GPUs when removing them from ASUS’s 800-series motherboards. ASUS maintains that these reports represent an “extremely small” segment of users, asserting that their internal evaluations reveal no impact on performance or functionality.

ASUS Q-Release GPU Damage — Image Credit: @9550pro

Some observers argue that ASUS downplays the severity of the reported GPU damage, categorizing it as minor when the evidence suggests more significant issues. Reports indicate that substantial portions of the PCIe interface have been damaged in specific cases, which ASUS attributes to user error.

While ASUS conducted tests involving 40 insertions and found no abnormalities, they acknowledged that “60 insertions using incorrect methods could exacerbate wear and make damage more noticeable.”However, it is questionable whether all users who reported damage indeed experienced that many insertions.

This situation calls for an independent investigation to determine whether the observed damage is genuinely a result of user error or indicative of a flaw within the Q-Release mechanism. ASUS has expressed willingness to address specific reported issues, but their statement leaves unanswered questions regarding liability for definitive GPU damage.

Further clarity is needed on whether ASUS will accept responsibility for damage to both the GPUs and motherboards or limit their commitment to either component.

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