No RTX 5090 is safe — power consumption limitation didn't save the power connector from self-destruction

On the TechPowerUp and Mobile01 forums, a high-profile case involving the Gigabyte RTX 5090 Aorus Master Ice graphics card is being discussed. The owner, aware of the issues plaguing flagship models, took precautions in advance. He not only performed an undervolt but also set a power limit of 500W instead of the standard 575W. However, this did not save the device—the top row of pins on the power connector was completely burnt out.

It's important to note that this user also connected power to the graphics card via an adapter, rather than a full-fledged 16-pin cable from the power supply. Why users continue to buy RTX 5090s without purchasing modern power supplies is unknown, but as is already known, even those do not guarantee connector safety. However, these power adapters are included right in the box with each such graphics card, so the logic is somewhat understandable.