RTX 5090: Nvidia Solves Fatal Issue of the RTX 4090

Following the dangerous incidents of melting cables with the RTX 4000 series, Nvidia is introducing a revised connector solution for the upcoming RTX 5090. The updated 12V-2X6 connector is expected to finally address the safety concerns of gamers.

RTX 5090: New Power Connector from the Start

With the introduction of the 12VHPWR connector in the RTX 4000 series, Nvidia faced a PR disaster: numerous users reported melting cables, which not only endangered the expensive hardware but also posed a significant safety risk. The graphics card manufacturer is now responding with a technical adjustment for the RTX 5090: the 12V-2X6 connector features 1.5 mm shorter sensor pins that only release power when the cable is fully inserted. Additionally, the power pins have been extended by 0.25 mm.

Good to know: Nvidia fixed the design flaw in mid-2023 for its RTX 4000 cards and has since primarily used the same updated connector. By the way, you don’t need a new cable for this; only the connector on the graphics cards has been revised.

If you want to know whether your card uses the risky 12VHPWR or the newer 12V-2X6 connector, you need to take a look at the power connector on the graphics card. If you see an “H+” on the plastic housing, it’s the old 12VHPWR connector. If, on the other hand, you see an “H++” on the connector, it’s the 12V-2X6 version.

One problem: To see the label, you might have to remove the cooler from your graphics card first, as it could obscure the marking. Alternatively, you can of course ask the manufacturer of your graphics card.

New Power Connector to Ensure More Safety

Nvidia’s previous explanation that the problems were mainly due to improper handling by users was met with little understanding in the gaming community. With the new technical solution, the manufacturer now wants to put an end to the debate.

The revised design is intended to prevent overheating and potential damage from the outset—regardless of how carefully the user handles the connection.

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