RTX 5090 Power Connector Issues – Should You Be Concerned? The Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 Founders Edition has hit the headlines, but not just for its raw performance. Reports have emerged of a melted power connector, sparking concerns among enthusiasts and potential buyers. But is this a widespread issue, or just an isolated case?
A Repeat of the RTX 4090 Power Connector Problems?
The latest report highlights a user who noticed a burning smell, only to discover that both the GPU’s power connector and their power supply’s 12V-2×6 connector had melted. This has raised alarms in the gaming and PC-building communities, particularly given that the user was using a third-party Moddiy cable—one that had worked fine on an RTX 4090 for over two years.
This isn’t the first time Nvidia’s high-end GPUs have been associated with power issues. The RTX 4090 saw multiple cases of its 12VHPWR connectors failing, often attributed to improper seating or subpar third-party cables. Nvidia later revised the design with the 12V-2×6 connector, aiming to improve safety and reliability.
However, with reports now surfacing of the same issue on the RTX 5090, questions remain: Has Nvidia truly fixed the problem, or is this just an unlucky failure?
Should You Hold Off on Buying the RTX 5090?
For those considering purchasing the RTX 5090, this news is certainly something to keep in mind. However, a single report does not necessarily indicate a widespread issue. With a large number of these GPUs expected to be sold, there will inevitably be some failures—this is simply a reality of mass-produced electronics. The key question is whether this is an isolated case or a systemic flaw.
For now, it may be wise to wait and see if additional reports emerge before committing to a purchase. If multiple cases of melting connectors surface, Nvidia may need to respond, either with a design revision or official guidance on cable compatibility. Until then, sticking to manufacturer-approved cables and ensuring a secure connection remains the best way to minimise any risk.
Does It Even Matter? Most People Can’t Buy One Yet!
While this power connector issue is concerning, for most people, it’s a moot point—simply because RTX 5090 stock is virtually nonexistent. Demand is through the roof, and supply is limited, meaning only a lucky few will even get their hands on one in the near future.
By the time the majority of gamers and PC builders have a chance to purchase an RTX 5090, we’ll likely have more clarity on whether this is a genuine problem or a one-off failure. For now, those looking to upgrade may be better off holding onto their current hardware and waiting for the dust to settle.
Derbauer has the customers card and cable and has made a video about the issue. Watch it here:
So What Now?
If you’re among the lucky few who have an RTX 5090 Founders Edition in your basket, should you be worried? Not necessarily. This single report, while concerning, does not yet indicate a widespread problem. That said, it’s always best to use high-quality, manufacturer-recommended cables and double-check your power connections to avoid any potential issues.
For everyone else? You probably don’t have to make a decision yet—the RTX 5090 is almost impossible to find in stock! By the time availability improves, we’ll have a much clearer picture of whether this is a major flaw or just an unfortunate, isolated case.
Update 14/02/2025: Emerging Issues with RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 Power Connectors
Recent reports have surfaced regarding power connector malfunctions in Nvidia’s latest RTX 50 series graphics cards, specifically the RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 models. Users have experienced instances of melted connectors, raising concerns about the reliability of these high-performance GPUs.
RTX 5090 Power Connector Concerns
Owners of the RTX 5090 Founders Edition have reported incidents where the power connectors have overheated and melted during standard usage. These occurrences are reminiscent of similar issues observed with the RTX 4090 two years prior. Notably, both custom cables from brands like MODDIY and standard cables from power supply manufacturers such as FSP have been implicated. Despite Nvidia’s implementation of the updated 12V-2×6 connector, designed to enhance connection reliability, these problems persist. As of now, Nvidia has not issued an official response to these reports.
RTX 5080 Power Connector Issues
Similar concerns have been raised by RTX 5080 users. A Reddit user reported that their RTX 5080 GPU displayed a flashing red light, indicating a potential issue with the power connection. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the power connector had melted on the power supply unit (PSU) side, while the GPU side remained unaffected. This incident suggests that the problem may not be isolated to the RTX 5090 and could affect other models within the RTX 50 series.
Potential Causes and Industry Response
The root cause of these power connector failures is still under investigation. Some theories propose that the design of the 12V-2×6 connector may inherently lack sufficient safety margins, making it susceptible to issues if not connected perfectly. Others suggest that certain power supplies, such as the ASUS ROG Loki series, might be contributing to the problem. However, these hypotheses require further validation.
In response to these incidents, Nvidia has previously stated that the updated 12V-2×6 power connector was intended to address earlier concerns associated with the 12VHPWR connectors used in the RTX 4090. This new connector features design modifications aimed at ensuring proper contact before the GPU requests higher power outputs. Despite these enhancements, the recent reports indicate that challenges remain.
Recommendations for Current Users
Given these developments, it is advisable for current and prospective RTX 50 series users to exercise caution:
- Ensure Proper Connection: Verify that power connectors are fully and securely inserted to prevent incomplete contacts, which could lead to overheating.
- Monitor for Warning Signs: Be attentive to any unusual indicators, such as warning lights or a burning smell, and discontinue use immediately if such signs are present.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of updates from Nvidia and other reputable sources regarding this issue.
As investigations continue, it is hoped that a definitive resolution will be identified to prevent further occurrences of these power connector malfunctions.
What we think
While these reports are undoubtedly concerning—especially given that the entry price for an RTX 5090 starts at £1,939—it’s important to keep things in perspective. Both this issue and the original RTX 4090 power connector problem appear to be exceptionally rare. When a failure does occur, the first instinct for many affected users is to report it to the tech media. This often leads to viral coverage, with videos reaching millions of viewers, even if the actual number of cases is minimal.
The reality is that all electrical appliances have a failure rate. If this were happening to Henry vacuum cleaners or Hotpoint washing machines, it’s unlikely we’d hear anywhere near as much about it.
While the situation is worth monitoring, we’re not overly concerned at this stage. If a widespread issue emerges, that would be a different matter entirely. For now, we’ll ensure our GPU is correctly connected—something that should be standard practice with all electronic devices—and remain vigilant for any signs of overheating, melting, or burning.
read more about 12×6 Connections here