ASRock Steel Legend RX 9070 XT 16G Graphics Card User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your ASRock Steel Legend RX 9070 XT 16G graphics card. This high-performance graphics card features 16GB GDDR6 VRAM, 64 compute units, and a 256-bit memory interface, designed to deliver enhanced multi-thread processing capacity and real-time ray-tracing performance. It operates with a base clock of 2.40 GHz and a boost clock of 2.97 GHz, utilizing a PCIe 5.0 interface for high-speed data transfer. Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure proper usage and longevity of your product.

Figure 1: ASRock Steel Legend RX 9070 XT 16G Graphics Card and its retail packaging.

2. Setup and Installation

2.1 System Requirements

• PCI Express-compliant motherboard with one x16 graphics slot.
• Minimum 750W power supply with three 8-pin PCIe power connectors.
• Operating System: Windows 10/11 64-bit or Linux 64-bit.
• Minimum 8GB system memory (16GB recommended).

2.2 Hardware Installation

1. Power Off System: Ensure your computer is completely powered off and unplugged from the wall outlet.
2. Open PC Case: Remove the side panel of your computer case.
3. Locate PCIe Slot: Identify an available PCI Express x16 slot on your motherboard.
4. Remove Slot Cover: Remove the corresponding metal slot cover from the back of your PC case.
5. Insert Graphics Card: Carefully align the graphics card with the PCIe x16 slot and press down firmly until it is securely seated. Ensure the retention clip on the motherboard clicks into place.
6. Secure Card: Fasten the graphics card to the PC case using the screw from the removed slot cover.
7. Connect Power: Connect three 8-pin PCIe power cables from your power supply to the corresponding power connectors on the top edge of the graphics card. The card features LEDs next to the power connectors that indicate correct connection (green for correct, red for incorrect).


Figure 2: Graphics card installed in a PC case, showing power cable connections.

8. Close PC Case: Replace the side panel of your computer case.

2.3 Driver Installation

1. Connect Display: Connect your monitor(s) to the graphics card using DisplayPort or HDMI cables. The card supports up to four displays with two DisplayPort 2.1 and two HDMI 2.1 connections.


Figure 3: Display output ports (DisplayPort and HDMI) on the graphics card.

2. Power On System: Plug in your computer and power it on.
3. Download Drivers: Visit the official ASRock website or AMD's official website to download the latest Radeon drivers for your RX 9070 XT graphics card.
4. Install Drivers: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the drivers. A system restart may be required.

3. Operation

3.1 Performance and Silent Mode Switch

The ASRock Steel Legend RX 9070 XT features a dual BIOS switch, allowing you to select between "Performance" and "Silent" modes. This switch is located on the backplate of the card. The "Performance" mode prioritizes higher clock speeds and fan RPM for maximum gaming performance, while the "Silent" mode reduces fan speeds for quieter operation, potentially at slightly lower performance levels. It is recommended to switch modes only when the system is powered off.

Figure 4: Location of the Performance/Silent mode switch on the graphics card backplate.

3.2 AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition

Utilize the AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition for fine-tuning your graphics card settings. This software allows for:

• Driver Updates: Keep your drivers up-to-date for optimal performance and stability.
• Game Optimization: Automatically optimize game settings for the best experience.
• Performance Tuning: Adjust clock speeds, fan curves, and power limits.
• Monitoring: Monitor GPU temperature, usage, and other vital statistics.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Cleaning

• Regularly clean dust from the fans and heatsink using compressed air. Ensure the system is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.
• Hold the fan blades gently to prevent them from spinning rapidly during cleaning, which can damage the bearings.

4.2 Driver Updates

• Periodically check for and install the latest graphics drivers from the AMD website. Updated drivers often include performance improvements, bug fixes, and support for new games.

5. Troubleshooting

5.1 No Display Output

• Ensure the graphics card is fully seated in the PCIe slot.
• Verify all PCIe power cables are securely connected to the graphics card and the power supply. Check the power connector LEDs for green indication.
• Confirm the monitor cable is correctly connected to the graphics card and the monitor.
• Test with a different display cable or monitor if possible.

5.2 Overheating Issues

• Check for proper airflow within your PC case. Ensure case fans are correctly installed and operating.
• Clean any dust buildup on the graphics card's heatsink and fans.
• Consider switching to "Performance" mode if currently in "Silent" mode, as it allows for higher fan speeds.
• Monitor GPU temperatures using AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition.

5.3 Driver-Related Problems

• Perform a clean installation of the graphics drivers. Use a tool like Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) in Safe Mode to remove old drivers before installing new ones.
• Ensure your operating system is up-to-date.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

This ASRock graphics card comes with a manufacturer's warranty. For detailed warranty terms, registration, and technical support, please visit the official ASRock website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Online Support: ASRock Support Website