It was only a matter of time, given the anomalous performance, that the GPU suffered significant damage—specifically, two holes in its structure, attributed to the limitations of its dual 16-pin connectors.
Frame Chasers Enhances GIGABYTE RTX 5090 with a Second 12V-2×6 Connector; Resulting Overheating Causes PCB Damage
Modifying GPUs, especially the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090, is fraught with risks. Enthusiast overclockers and modders are eager to secure maximum power output from their graphics cards, often employing shunt-modding as an effective method to raise the power limit. The addition of a secondary power connector not only facilitates higher power delivery but does so more reliably compared to relying solely on a single 16-pin connector.
In a recent experiment, Frame Chasers successfully added a second 12V-2×6 power connector to the GIGABYTE RTX 5090’s PCB. Notably, certain variations of this card possess the PCB footprint necessary for an additional connector on the right side. Alongside this enhancement, Frame Chasers implemented a shunt mod to significantly boost power draw capabilities.
Although the GPU functioned adequately following these modifications, catastrophic issues arose due to excessive heating of the PCB, which unfortunately led to the formation of holes. Frame Chasers reported an existing problem with the GPU, wherein the fan failed to operate despite the GPU and PCB reaching dangerously high temperatures. This failure occurred while the PC was idling, although the GPU was set to Performance mode in the NVIDIA control panel, which inadvertently kept it running in 3D mode continuously. Consequently, the effect of the shunt mod compelled the GPU to draw more power than anticipated, compounding the problems by not activating the fans.
The video footage reveals startling damage: two holes perforated the PCB, alongside a capacitor that was dislodged due to the extreme heat conditions. Fortunately, the core GPU chip and VRAM appear unharmed, suggesting they could potentially be salvaged and fitted onto a new PCB. Frame Chasers has sent the now-defunct RTX 5090 to the highly regarded PC hardware repair specialist, NorthWestRepair, who may salvage the vital components.
For further insights, refer to the following sources: Frame Chasers, @unikoshardware.
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