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Prepare the graphics card by removing existing screws and washers before installation.
Cut and place thermal pads on VRM components as illustrated.
Place cut thermal pads onto the backplate or PCB according to the diagram.
Remove the metal plate securing O-rings for active backplate installation.
Mount the active backplate onto the GPU PCB, ensuring proper alignment and screw tightening.
Screw in G1/4 fittings, attach tubing, and connect the water block to the cooling loop.
Connect the 4-pin D-RGB connector to the motherboard/controller header.
The EK-Quantum Vector TRIO RTX 3080/3090 Active Backplate is a specialized liquid cooling component designed to enhance the thermal performance of NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 and RTX 3090 graphics cards, specifically those based on the MSI TRIO design. This active backplate works in conjunction with a compatible EK-Quantum Vector TRIO water block, forming a comprehensive cooling solution that targets both the front and rear of the graphics card's PCB. Its primary function is to cool the backside of the GPU, VRAM modules, and VRM components, which often generate significant heat during intensive operations, especially with the high-power demands of RTX 3080 and 3090 cards. By actively cooling these components, the backplate helps to maintain lower operating temperatures, prevent thermal throttling, and potentially extend the lifespan of the graphics card.
One of the key usage features of this active backplate is its integration into an existing liquid cooling loop. It is designed to be installed after the main EK-Quantum Vector TRIO water block has been mounted on the graphics card. The backplate features its own terminal, which replaces the original terminal of the water block, allowing for a seamless connection to the cooling loop. This integrated terminal design ensures optimal coolant flow through both the front water block and the active backplate, maximizing heat transfer efficiency. The terminal can be rotated 180 degrees, offering flexibility in routing liquid cooling tubes, although users should be aware that this rotation will reverse the inlet and outlet ports. The backplate is equipped with G1/4 threaded ports, making it compatible with a wide range of standard liquid cooling fittings and tubing.
Installation involves several precise steps, starting with the preparation of the graphics card. Users must first ensure that the EK-Quantum Vector TRIO RTX 3080/3090 water block is already installed on the card. If the water block is already in use, specific screws and washers need to be removed to prepare for the backplate attachment. A critical step involves removing the original terminal from the water block and replacing it with the active backplate's integrated terminal. This process requires careful handling, especially if the water block is already filled with coolant, as the system must be drained to prevent spills and potential damage to the GPU. The backplate also utilizes thermal pads to establish effective thermal contact with the components on the backside of the PCB. These thermal pads need to be cut to size and strategically placed according to the provided instructions, ensuring comprehensive coverage of heat-generating areas.
The mounting mechanism of the active backplate is designed for secure and even pressure distribution. It involves positioning the backplate onto the PCB, aligning all mounting holes, and then securing it with a combination of M2.5x8 AX1 screws and M4x27 DIN7984 screws. The instructions emphasize the importance of tightening these screws evenly and avoiding excessive force to prevent damage to the PCB or components. Proper alignment of the terminal and the block is crucial, which may require gentle compression of the thermal pads near the terminal. This ensures that the two 15x1 O-rings, which are vital for a leak-free seal, remain correctly seated in their terminal slots. Incorrectly positioned O-rings can lead to leaks, highlighting the need for meticulous attention during this step.
Beyond its cooling function, the EK-Quantum Vector TRIO RTX 3080/3090 Active Backplate also incorporates aesthetic and functional enhancements. It features a D-RGB LED strip, which adds customizable lighting to the graphics card. This LED strip connects to a standard 3-pin (+5V, Data, Blocked, Ground) D-RGB header on the motherboard or a dedicated controller, allowing users to synchronize lighting effects with other D-RGB components in their system. The inclusion of D-RGB lighting not only enhances the visual appeal of the build but also allows for personalized customization to match various themes and preferences.
Maintenance features for this active backplate are largely consistent with general liquid cooling system best practices. The use of quality, market-proven corrosion-inhibiting coolants is strongly recommended to prevent degradation of the cooling components over time. Pure distilled water is explicitly advised against as a cooling liquid, with EK-CryoFuel Coolants recommended for optimal results. After installation, a crucial maintenance step is performing a 24-hour leak test. This involves connecting the pump to a power supply unit (PSU) outside the main system and allowing it to run continuously, inspecting all parts of the loop for any signs of leakage. This proactive measure helps ensure the integrity of the cooling system before powering on the entire computer, preventing potential damage to hardware. Additionally, bleeding air out of the water block thoroughly is essential to achieve optimal performance, as trapped air can hinder coolant flow and reduce cooling efficiency. The design of EK fittings, which rely on rubber O-ring gaskets for a liquid seal, means they only require a small amount of force to screw them firmly in place, simplifying installation and reducing the risk of overtightening. The product is intended for installation by expert users, and consulting a qualified technician is advised for proper installation, underscoring the importance of correct procedures for both performance and longevity.
General| Type | GPU Water Block |
|---|---|
| Cooling Type | Liquid Cooling |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Device Type | Water Block |
| Compatibility | NVIDIA RTX 3080 |
| RGB Lighting | Yes |
| Ports | G1/4" |
| Thermal Pad Thickness | 1 mm |
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