RTX 5070 Power Connector Issue: User Reports Missing Pin and Instant Cable Meltdown

In an unusual development, a ZOTAC RTX 5070 graphics card experienced a significant issue that has typically been associated with the higher-end RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 models. This incident marks a worrying indication that mid-range GPUs can also be affected by power cable melting incidents.

Power Cable Melting Incident Involving ZOTAC RTX 5070

Historically, the focus has largely been on the melting problems affecting RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 GPUs; however, users are now reporting serious concerns with the RTX 5070. This occurrence represents the first documented case of thermal issues leading to power cable damage within the RTX 5070 line, highlighting potential design flaws.

Smoke came out of the PC Σ(ﾟдﾟ；)

This is my first time experiencing this in my life…To be honest, I’ve seen it on the internet news, but I thought it was a very low probability.

I was surprised at the amount of smoke just 2 seconds after I turned it on! I unplugged it and turned on the exhaust fan 😭

I checked the terminal connections over and over again, and they were all secure and plugged in all the way.

(There is a continuation of the video pic.twitter.com/EX1pP5yKFF

— Kenken🐶Custom PC request acceptance (credit card payment ◎) @ Saitama (@ere9w) April 10, 2025

In this particular case, the melting occurred specifically in the power cable rather than the connector itself. A user shared detailed videos and images of their setup, illustrating the problem that arose immediately after powering on the system. The affected GPU, a ZOTAC RTX 5070, was backed by a Seasonic Focus GX-750W power supply.

ZOTAC RTX 5070 burnt power cable — Image Credit: @ere9w

Within just seconds of activation, the power cable became engulfed in flames, with one wire visibly melted. An inspection revealed that a pin in the 12-pin power connector appeared to be bent. Upon closer examination, the user made a startling discovery: one of the pins was entirely missing. This absence likely contributed to the overheating issue, yet, given that the RTX 5070 does not demand excessive power, this malfunction raises further questions.

ZOTAC RTX 5070 12-pin missing pin — Image Credit: @ere9w

While the GPU and power supply unit connectors remained unharmed, it is apparent that the RTX 5070 may be defective from the outset. The user is expected to pursue a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) to obtain a replacement card.

The GeForce RTX 5070 is designed to operate at a modest 250W power requirement, which could have been efficiently managed through dual 8-pin PCI-E connectors. Despite this, NVIDIA opted for the 12V-2×6 connector, a choice that has been fraught with issues in previous generations and continues to manifest problems in the RTX 50 series.

There is a strong consensus within the industry that the 12-pin connector needs a significant redesign. The current 12V-2×6 configuration has proven to be insufficient in addressing these safety concerns, especially as GPU technology advances and demands for power escalate.

For further information on this incident, you can refer to the news outlet Videocardz.

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