In a remarkable feat of engineering, ZOTAC has introduced a groundbreaking approach to integrating a desktop GPU within a compact mini PC. The ZOTAC Magnus, equipped with the GeForce RTX 5060 Ti, showcases an innovative hybrid PCIe interface that sets a new standard for budget-friendly, space-saving designs.
ZOTAC’s Ingenious PCIe Solution
ZOTAC’s new Magnus mini PC stands out not only for its size but for utilizing a unique PCIe interface that performs dual functions. The device features a desktop-version GeForce RTX 5060 Ti GPU within a mere 2.65-liter chassis, eliminating the necessity for an external power connector. Disassembled by tech enthusiasts, it was revealed that the PCIe gold finger is split into two sections. The first connects to the motherboard, while the second powers the GPU. The setup is a hybrid “PCIe x8 5.0 + x8 5.0” configuration, efficiently handling both connectivity and power delivery.
Performance and Potential
The motherboard’s PCB includes a PCIe connector that routes a 19V input directly to the GPU through the secondary x8 interface. This setup allows the GPU to maintain a PCIe 5.0 x8 connection, sufficient for full-speed operation, while the second PCIe x8 draws the needed 180W for full performance. Such a design could significantly benefit other compact mini PCs using budget and mid-range GPUs, with benchmarks appearing promising. However, the current cooling system doesn’t support extended operation at 180W, limiting overclocking potential despite the system’s power adjustment capabilities.
Comparative Insights and Future Prospects
While the ZOTAC Magnus with RTX 5060 Ti leads in compact design, another Magnus edition with an RTX 5070 Ti is significantly larger and requires a dedicated 12V-2×6 connector. Although solutions like ASUS’s BTF High Power Connector exist, they cannot match the hybrid efficiency of the ZOTAC Magnus. GPUs with a single 8-pin PCIe connector could indeed benefit from this x8 + x8 design, as long as the power demand stays within 200W. However, improvements in the cooling system are crucial for realizing the full potential of overclocking capabilities.