Modder reduces RTX 5090 power cable heat with dual 8-pin connector solution

A Reddit user named DallasGrave has developed a modification for the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 to address concerns about the 16-pin power cable overheating. The mod involves adding dual 8-pin connectors to spread the power load across all three connectors, reducing the strain on the 12V-2×6 cable. This approach allows the RTX 5090 to operate with less heat buildup, maintaining temperatures below 40°C during extended high-power usage.

The modification consists of soldering a PCB to the contacts of the 12V-2×6 header, enabling power to be transmitted through the additional 8-pin connectors. According to DallasGrave, this change reduces the current load on the 16-pin cable to 3A, which helps mitigate the risk of melting cables and potential damage to the graphics card and power supply. The modder also claims they are partnering with PNY to offer this solution under warranty.

While the modification voids the warranty, DallasGrave asserts that it is a cost-effective solution for those worried about the inherent risks of the RTX 5090's base design. The modder's efforts have been well-received by the community, particularly after experiencing firsthand the consequences of melting power cables, which destroyed both their RTX 5090 Founders Edition and power supply.

Other solutions, such as cables and adapters with temperature monitoring and system-shutdown capabilities, have emerged but do not fully address the underlying design issues. This modification offers a practical alternative to reduce the risk of hardware failure due to overheating.