Wuchang Gameplay Causes Burnt 16-Pin Power Connector on GeForce RTX 5090; Investigative Report Sheds Light on Proper Connection Issues

A recently documented case has brought attention to the overheating issue affecting the 16-pin power connector of the GeForce RTX 5090 GPU. Notably, even with a secure connection, this connector succumbed to melting, raising significant concerns within the gaming community.

DSO Gaming Reports on the RTX 5090’s 16-Pin Connector Melting Despite Proper Use

This incident isn’t isolated; however, it stands out due to its thorough documentation. John Papadopoulos, the Editor-in-Chief of DSO Gaming, shared his experience with his RTX 5090, which faced a burnt 16-pin power connector even though he followed all recommended practices.

In an unusual turn, this case was well-documented, with John capturing images before fully taxing the GPU. He utilized the included 12Vx2-6 power cable, intentionally avoiding the use of other cables from previously-owned GPUs, such as the RTX 4090 or RTX 5080. Despite ensuring a secure connection, John witnessed smoke emitting from the connector, yet no gaming interruptions or crashes occurred during this alarming moment.

Close-up of a computer cable connection inside a PC build for effective power management. — Image captured just before the connector melted during gameplay; Source: DSO Gaming

John explains that although some observers noted a ‘gap’ between the connector and the GPU port, this was simply the maximum depth of insertion. For over 20 minutes, with the GPU running at full capacity, temperatures stayed under 78 degrees Celsius, indicating a solid connection. Yet, the bottom row of pins on the connector melted, raising further questions.

He points out that the perceived ‘gap’ was at the top of the connector, which should have left the bottom pins intact. However, the overheating occurred because the load was disproportionately carried by these bottom pins, suggesting an incomplete connection at the top, where power was insufficiently distributed.

Close-up of a damaged electronic connector port on a black device. — Damage observed on the connector: Bottom pins melted, top pins remain unaffected; Source: DSO Gaming

Importantly, this incident should not be attributed to user error. John, well-versed in electronics, has meticulously documented the entire process. The fact remains that the design of the connector is flawed, as proven by several similar reports. Without an effective mechanism to confirm a secured connection, users are left at risk of dealing with potential overheating issues.

In an unexpected turn of events, following the alarming smoke, John reseated the GPU without reconnecting the power cable and found that the GPU operated without issue. This outcome suggests that the cable was indeed connected correctly initially, and reaffirms the hypothesis regarding the connector’s design shortcomings impacting its effectiveness.

For further information, visit the original report by DSO Gaming: DSO Gaming.

Additionally, you can check out further details and images at: Source & Images.