Is a $40 connector cable all that’s needed to prevent your GPU from succumbing to a melting disaster? It’s a possibility, but pushing your GPU beyond its intended power limits could still have detrimental effects on its longevity.
User Experiments with RTX 5090 and ASRock’s Innovative Connector Cable
There is a story of hope for a user whose GPU narrowly avoided a dire fate. Although the notorious 16-pin connector melting typically occurs with GPUs operating at maximum capacity, this user’s innovative approach allowed him to bypass such consequences. On Overclock forums, he revealed that his MSI RTX 5090 Ventus GPU was shunt-modded and equipped with liquid cooling, enabling it to operate at twice the power limit without significant harm.
Following numerous demanding benchmarks, the GPU powered down. Yet, it wasn’t due to connector failure or melting. Instead, ASRock’s $40 12V-2×6 connector cable, featuring an NTC sensor, was the savior. This sensor keeps tabs on the temperature and signals the PSU to shut down if the threshold is crossed.
The user was daring enough to push his GPU beyond its limits, but when the temperature exceeded ASRock’s set maximum of 105°C, the PSU wisely powered down the system. Upon inspection, the GPU-side cable connector bore clear signs of discoloration from the heat. Until the cable cooled, the system refused to turn the GPU back on. Though still operational, the user considers replacing the connector due to its “irreversibly compromised” state.
ASRock is probably going to move a lot of power supplies because of this. Good for them. If any ASRock representative happens to see this, consider lowering the PSU shutdown temperature from 105C to something closer to 85C. That would be a much safer threshold.
– Motivman, Overclock.net
ASRock’s Response and Consumer Advice
According to the user, ASRock should consider reducing the temperature limit to ensure the GPU powers down well before reaching hazardous levels. However, users should be aware that modifying their GPU voids the warranty and increases the risk of damage. ASRock took notice of this story and stated in a social media post that their PSUs are “insanely good.” It’s important to note that the ASRock 16-pin cable is exclusively compatible with the ASRock Taichi and Phantom Gaming series PSUs.
ASRock’s power supply is so insanely good it’s hilarious. It’s handling 1350W like a champ, running 200 benchmark loops on the RTX5090 without any issues. Seriously, this thing is amazing. (Machine Translated)
– ASRock, via X
After the WireView Pro 2, ASRock’s 16-pin cable might just be the optimal choice for many RTX 5090 users. That said, regardless of the safety measures provided by a PSU or cable, it’s advised against shunt modding to raise the GPU’s power limit as it significantly increases the risk of permanent damage.