1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your ASUS TUF Gaming NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti EVO OC Edition Graphics Card. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation to ensure proper setup and optimal performance.
2. Product Overview
The ASUS TUF Gaming GeForce GTX 1660 Ti EVO OC Edition is engineered for durability and performance, integrating advanced features for a robust gaming experience. Key features include:
- NVIDIA Turing Architecture: Built with the breakthrough graphics performance of the award-winning NVIDIA Turing architecture.
- OC Edition: Boost clock up to 1845 MHz (OC mode) for enhanced performance.
- Space-Grade Lubricant: Fans utilize space-grade lubricant for quieter operation and extended durability, matching dual ball bearing designs.
- IP5X Dust Resistance: Fan design provides superior protection against dust ingress, enhancing longevity.
- Auto-Extreme Technology: An automated manufacturing process that enhances reliability by completing all soldering in a single pass.
- Protective Backplate: A rigid backplate prevents PCB flex and trace damage.
- DirectCU II: Copper heatpipes make direct contact with the GPU die for improved thermal transfer.
- 144-hour Validation Program: Subjected to a series of stringent tests to ensure compatibility and reliability with the latest games.
Figure 2.1: Front view of the ASUS TUF Gaming GTX 1660 Ti EVO OC Edition Graphics Card.
Figure 2.2: Detail of the fans featuring space-grade lubricant for enhanced durability and quieter operation.
Figure 2.3: The rigid protective backplate on the rear of the graphics card, designed to prevent PCB flex and damage.
Figure 2.4: Illustration of DirectCU II technology, showing copper heatpipes making direct contact with the GPU die for efficient heat dissipation.
Figure 2.5: An automated assembly line demonstrating the Auto-Extreme Technology, which ensures consistent quality and reliability in manufacturing.
Figure 2.6: The 144-hour Validation Program badge, signifying rigorous testing for compatibility and stability.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your package:
- ASUS TUF Gaming NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti EVO OC Edition Graphics Card
- User Manual (this document)
Figure 3.1: The graphics card alongside its retail packaging, indicating typical package contents.
4. Installation
4.1 System Requirements
Before installing the graphics card, ensure your system meets the following minimum requirements:
- PCI Express-compliant motherboard with one dual-width x16 graphics slot.
- Minimum 450W power supply (consult your system's power supply requirements for specific recommendations).
- Operating System: Windows 10 / 8.1 / 7 (64-bit recommended).
- Minimum 8GB system memory (RAM).
- Internet connection for driver download and software updates.
4.2 Physical Installation
- Power Off and Disconnect: Turn off your computer and disconnect all power cables from the wall outlet.
- Open PC Case: Open your computer case. Refer to your PC case manual for instructions.
- Locate PCIe Slot: Identify an available PCI Express x16 slot on your motherboard.
- Remove Slot Covers: Remove the necessary slot covers from the back of your PC case corresponding to the chosen PCIe slot.
- Insert Graphics Card: Carefully align the graphics card with the PCIe slot and press it firmly until it is securely seated. Ensure the retention clip on the motherboard clicks into place.
- Secure Card: Secure the graphics card to the PC case using the screws removed earlier or provided with your case.
- Connect Power (if applicable): If your graphics card requires external power (e.g., 8-pin PCIe power connector), connect the appropriate power cable from your power supply to the card. The GTX 1660 Ti typically requires one 8-pin PCIe power connector.
- Close PC Case: Close your PC case and reconnect all power cables.
4.3 Driver Installation
- Power On: Power on your computer.
- Download Drivers: Visit the official ASUS support website or NVIDIA's official driver download page (www.nvidia.com/drivers) to download the latest drivers for your GeForce GTX 1660 Ti.
- Install Drivers: Run the downloaded driver installer and follow the on-screen instructions. It is recommended to perform a clean installation.
- Restart System: Restart your computer after the driver installation is complete.
5. Operating the Graphics Card
5.1 Connecting Displays
The ASUS TUF Gaming GTX 1660 Ti EVO OC Edition provides multiple display output options:
- 1 x Native DisplayPort 1.4
- 2 x Native HDMI 2.0b
- 1 x Native DVI-D
Connect your monitor(s) to the appropriate ports on the graphics card using compatible cables. Ensure your monitor is powered on and set to the correct input source.
Figure 5.1: Overview of the graphics card's display output ports, including DisplayPort, HDMI, and DVI-D.
5.2 Software and Optimization (GPU Tweak II)
For advanced control and optimization of your graphics card, ASUS provides the GPU Tweak II utility. This software allows you to:
- Monitor GPU clock speed, memory clock, voltage, and fan speed in real-time.
- Adjust clock speeds and voltage for overclocking (OC mode) or underclocking.
- Customize fan profiles for optimal cooling and noise levels.
- Switch between different performance modes (OC Mode, Gaming Mode, Silent Mode).
Download GPU Tweak II from the official ASUS support website (www.asus.com/support/Download-Center/) under your product model.
6. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your graphics card.
6.1 Cleaning
- Power Off: Always power off your computer and disconnect it from the power source before cleaning.
- Dust Removal: Use compressed air to gently blow dust from the heatsink fins and fan blades. Hold the fan blades in place to prevent over-spinning during cleaning.
- Exterior Cleaning: Wipe the exterior surfaces of the card with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents.
6.2 Fan Care
The fans on your ASUS TUF Gaming graphics card are designed with space-grade lubricant and IP5X dust resistance for enhanced durability. Regular dust removal, as described above, will help maintain their efficiency and lifespan.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No display output. | Graphics card not seated correctly; incorrect display input; power cable not connected. | Ensure the card is fully seated in the PCIe slot. Check display cable connections and monitor input source. Verify all necessary power cables are connected to the graphics card. |
| Low frame rates or poor performance. | Outdated drivers; insufficient system resources; overheating. | Update to the latest graphics drivers. Close unnecessary background applications. Ensure adequate case airflow and clean the graphics card fans/heatsink. |
| System crashes or freezes. | Driver conflict; unstable overclock; overheating. | Perform a clean driver installation. Reset GPU Tweak II settings to default. Check temperatures and improve cooling. |
| Fans are noisy or not spinning. | Dust accumulation; fan profile settings; fan malfunction. | Clean dust from fans and heatsink. Adjust fan curves in GPU Tweak II. If fans are not spinning at all under load, contact support. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Graphics Engine | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti |
| Bus Standard | PCIe 3.0 |
| Video Memory | 6GB GDDR6 |
| Engine Clock (OC Mode) | 1845 MHz (Boost) |
| Engine Clock (Gaming Mode) | 1815 MHz (Boost) |
| Memory Speed | 12 Gbps |
| Memory Interface | 192-bit |
| Digital Max Resolution | 7680 x 4320 |
| Display Outputs | 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.0b, 1 x DVI-D |
| HDCP Support | Yes (2.2) |
| Recommended PSU | 450W |
| Power Connectors | 1 x 8-pin |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 8.1 x 4.9 x 1.8 inches (20.6 x 12.4 x 4.6 cm) |
| Slot | 2.7 Slot |
9. Warranty and Support
ASUS products are manufactured to the highest quality standards. For information regarding your product's warranty, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official ASUS support website.
For technical support, driver downloads, FAQs, and more, please visit the ASUS Support Center:
