EVGA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti FTW3 DT Gaming Graphics Card Instruction Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

This manual provides essential information for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your EVGA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti FTW3 DT Gaming graphics card. This high-performance graphics card features EVGA iCX Technology, incorporating 9 additional thermal sensors for precise monitoring of memory and VRM components, alongside RGB LED indicators for GPU, Memory, and PWM thermal status. Its design includes a newly engineered die-cast baseplate, backplate, and optimized airflow chambers for superior cooling efficiency. Full control and customization are available through EVGA Precision XOC software.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are present in your product package:

• EVGA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti FTW3 DT Gaming Graphics Card
• Instruction Manual
• Necessary Cables

Figure 1: The retail packaging for the EVGA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti FTW3 DT Gaming graphics card.

3. Product Features

• Real Base Clock: 1480 MHz
• Real Boost Clock: 1582 MHz
• Memory Detail: 11264MB GDDR5X
• EVGA iCX Technology: Features 9 additional temperature sensors to monitor Memory and VRM.
• GPU/Memory/PWM Thermal Status Indicator: RGB LEDs provide visual feedback on thermal conditions.
• Cooling Design: New vented heatsink fin design and pin fins for optimized airflow.
• Safety Fuse: Integrated safety fuse protects components from damage due to improper installation or other component failures.

Figure 2: A direct front view of the graphics card, showcasing its triple-fan cooling system and the EVGA branding.

4. Specifications

5. Installation Guide

5.1. Preparation

• Ensure your computer is powered off and disconnected from the main power source.
• Discharge any static electricity from your body by touching a grounded metal object.
• Verify your power supply unit (PSU) meets the recommended wattage (e.g., 850W for some high-end GPUs) and has the necessary 6+2 pin or 16-pin (12VHPWR) PCIe power connectors.
• Consult your motherboard manual to identify the primary PCIe x16 slot, typically the top-most long slot, for optimal performance.
• Remove the necessary expansion slot covers from your PC case to accommodate the graphics card's display outputs.

5.2. Physical Installation

1. Carefully align the graphics card's PCIe connector with the primary PCIe x16 slot on your motherboard.
2. Gently but firmly press the card into the slot until it is fully seated. You should hear a click as the locking mechanism on the motherboard engages.
3. Secure the graphics card to the PC case using the screws from the removed expansion slot covers.

Figure 3: An angled perspective of the graphics card, showing the PCIe connector and overall design.

Figure 4: The rear view of the graphics card, showing the protective backplate and the area where it secures to the PC case.

5.3. Power Connection

1. Locate the appropriate PCIe power cables from your power supply. The EVGA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti FTW3 DT Gaming typically requires multiple 6+2 pin connectors.
2. Connect these cables firmly into the corresponding power sockets on the graphics card. Ensure each connector is fully seated and the clips engage.

5.4. Driver Installation

1. After physical installation, connect your monitor to one of the graphics card's display outputs (DisplayPort or HDMI).
2. Power on your computer.
3. Once your operating system loads, navigate to the official NVIDIA website (nvidia.com/drivers) or EVGA's support page (evga.com/support/download) to download the latest drivers for your GeForce GTX 1080 Ti.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the driver installation. A system restart may be required.

Figure 5: A close-up of the graphics card's display output panel, featuring multiple DisplayPort and HDMI connections.

6. Operating Instructions

Once drivers are installed, your EVGA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti FTW3 DT Gaming graphics card is ready for use. For optimal performance and customization, install EVGA Precision XOC software. This utility allows for fine-tuning of clock speeds, fan curves, and monitoring of the iCX thermal sensors. Ensure your operating system and games are updated to leverage the full capabilities of the graphics card.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Periodically clean the fans and heatsink fins to prevent dust buildup, which can impede airflow and cooling performance. Use compressed air to gently remove dust. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.
• Airflow: Maintain good airflow within your PC case by ensuring case fans are properly configured and not obstructed.
• Driver Updates: Regularly check for and install the latest graphics drivers from NVIDIA or EVGA to ensure optimal performance, stability, and access to new features.

8. Troubleshooting

• No Display Output:
  • Ensure the monitor cable is securely connected to both the graphics card and the monitor.
  • Verify that the graphics card is fully seated in the PCIe slot.
  • Check that all necessary PCIe power cables are connected to the graphics card.
  • Confirm your monitor is set to the correct input source.
• System Instability/Crashes:
  • Ensure graphics drivers are up to date.
  • Monitor GPU temperatures using software like EVGA Precision XOC to check for overheating.
  • Verify your power supply unit meets the recommended wattage for your system.
• Poor Performance:
  • Ensure graphics drivers are up to date.
  • Check in-game settings to ensure they are appropriate for your system configuration.
  • Close unnecessary background applications.

9. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, technical support, and additional resources, please visit the official EVGA website at evga.com/support/. You may also register your product on the EVGA website to access full warranty benefits and support services.