ASUS Discontinues Metal in Q-Release Mechanism for PCI-E x16 Slots on 800 Series Motherboards

ASUS has enhanced its PCI-E Quick Release technology, a significant upgrade for the 800-series motherboards, as indicated by findings on the ROG Crosshair X870E Apex model.

Resolution of PCI-E Interface Damage Issues in ASUS 800-Series Motherboards

After a thorough examination of the initial design flaws, ASUS has addressed a critical issue involving its Quick Release feature, aimed at streamlining the removal of GPUs from its motherboards. The Q-Release mechanism initially debuted with the 800 series motherboards, catering to both AMD and Intel’s latest processor families. This innovation eliminated the need for users to press a button located at the end of the PCI-E x16 slot to detach the GPU.

Despite its convenience for rapid installation and uninstallation, the Q-Release system had unintended consequences, resulting in damage to the PCI-E interfaces on numerous GPUs. Reports highlighted instances of chipping at the corners of the slots. Although ASUS initially dismissed the possibility of damage attributed to the Q-Release, many owners of the 800-series motherboards reported otherwise. In response, the company has made a silent update to the Q-Release mechanism.

This modification was first revealed by @UnikosHardware, who noted that in Newegg’s listing for the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero motherboard, the metal component responsible for power delivery in the PCI-E x16 slot has been removed. Notably, this modification results in a slight increase in the thickness of the divider.

In the upgraded motherboard, specifically the X870E Hero, the previously included metal piece is absent. However, the Q-Release feature remains intact, suggesting that ASUS has identified this metal component as a potential cause of PCI-E connection scratches and chips on GPUs, leading to its removal.

Despite ASUS’s assurances that such scratches do not impact the GPUs’ performance or overall functionality, the concerns lingered among users. Initially, the company contended that their internal evaluations revealed no such damage and that the Q-Release mechanism would only induce minor wear after approximately 60 uses. Nevertheless, in light of substantial user feedback, ASUS has pledged to compensate for damages incurred to both GPUs and motherboards.

As the upgraded motherboards begin to reach consumers, we look forward to firsthand accounts confirming these developments. It is hoped that the new design effectively rectifies the issue; however, users are strongly encouraged to adhere to the Q-Release guidelines as specified by ASUS.

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