RTX 5090 Bypasses 16-Pin Connector and Reaches 600 W

    Brazil’s TecLab team soldered cables directly to the PCB to eliminate the controversial 16-pin power connector on the RTX 5090 family. The experiment was conducted on the high-end Galax HOF OC LAB XOC RTX 5090D model. The modified graphics card powered on, successfully completed testing and operated with power consumption of approximately 600 W.    Although standard RTX 5090 models have one power connector for a 575 W TDP, the Galax card used in the test has two such connectors. The model is designed for overclocking and can run with an OC BIOS that allows a limit of up to 2,000 W. The modders soldered two sets of cables to the power lines above the connectors and used adapters to convert the cables coming from the power supply into exposed wires.    The graphics card’s factory heatsink and fans were removed entirely. The graphics processor was cooled with extremely cold water circulating through an industrial-grade liquid cooler, while two 120 mm fans were attached to the PCB with plastic ties. The temperature was not disclosed, but the approximately 50 A of current measured on the 12 V rail indicated that the card was operating at around 600 W.    This method was tested as an ironic response to complaints about melting power connectors on RTX 5090 and RTX 4090 models. Although the experiment produced a working result, the rough soldering, exposed PCB and high current create serious fire and electrical hazards. This modification is therefore not a solution for ordinary users and should not be attempted at home.