Nvidia has seen a few cases of scorched or burnt power connectors on the GeForce RTX 4090. The manufacturer has concluded that the most common problem with the 12VHPWR connector occurs when it is not installed snugly.

Nvidia has 50 cases worldwide, according to a support post Known to have a scorched power plug on the GeForce RTX 4090. In all cases examined, the 12VHPWR adapter used showed the signs that occur when the connector is not seated 100 percent correctly: the inside of the graphics card connection heats up, causing a burn on the plastic on the edge A line is formed.

The 12VHPWR connector doesn’t click as loudly as previous 8- and 6-pin connectors. Furthermore, full insertion requires more force than before. Nvidia recommends plugging the cable or adapter into the case before installing the graphics card. This makes it easy to make sure the connector is properly seated.

12VHPWR connector can be changed

Nvidia now wants to investigate whether there are better ways to ensure cables or adapters are properly seated. However, possible changes such as the locking mechanism require a revised specification from the PCI-SIG group of companies.

Regardless of the RTX 4000 graphics card used and the adapter or cable used, those affected should receive “expedited RMA procedures” for repair or replacement of the graphics card. Nvidia confirms this to GamersNexusThat this also applies to graphics cards where the connector is installed incorrectly.

(mma)