Installation Manual for EK-Vector RTX Aorus 2080Ti Water Block

Bag Content

The bag content is universal for all water blocks; you may not need all screws.

• M2.5x4 AX1 (16pcs)
• M2.5x6 AX1 (13pcs)
• M2.5x8 AX1 (2pcs)
• M3x4 DIN7985 (2pcs)
• M2.5 helix nut (6pcs)
• PVC Washer (6pcs)
• Thermal grease (1pc)
• EK plug G1/4 (2pcs)
• 6mm Allen key (1pc)
• 2.5mm Allen key (1pc)
• Replacement mounting mechanism: FC - Tip F (M2,5 x AX1) (EAN: 3831109872215)

Step 1: Preparing Your Graphics Card

1. Removing Stock Cooler: Remove all encircled screws. All heat sink assembly screws should be removed, including self-adhesive washers on both sides of the PCB (if present).

2. Removing Factory Provided Backplate: Remove all encircled screws using a Phillips screwdriver. All heat sink assembly screws should be removed, including self-adhesive washers on both sides of the PCB (if present). After you remove the housing, do not forget to unplug the fans.

1. Cleaning the PCB: Carefully detach the original stock cooler after removing all screws securing it to the board. Wipe off the remains of the original thermal compound using a non-abrasive cloth or q-tip until the components and circuit board are completely clean. EKWB recommends using denatured alcohol for removing TIM leftovers.

2. Applying Thermal Compound: Apply thermal compound lightly to the NVIDIA GPU chip with the enclosed EK-TIM Ectotherm thermal grease. EKWB recommends applying thermal grease in a cross form for best performance.

3. Cutting Thermal Pads: Your block comes with thermal pads, some of which are already pre-cut. Others have to be cut to smaller chunks to cover all VRM components such as MOSFETS and drivers. PLEASE REMOVE THE PROTECTIVE FOIL FROM BOTH SIDES OF THE THERMAL PADS PRIOR TO INSTALLATION.

• Thermal Pad E - 0.5mm (RAM 11x) – (EAN: 3830046996688)
• Thermal Pad F - 1mm (120x16mm) - (EAN: 3830046996732)

4. Placing Thermal Pads on PCB: Place thermal pads on the circuit board as shown in the picture. Refer to numbering in the previous picture when applying thermal pads of different sizes or thicknesses. EKWB provides more than adequate quantities of thermal pads to complete this step.

Step 2: Installing the Water Block

1. Placing the Block onto the Graphics Card: Carefully position the water block with preinstalled standoffs onto the graphics card. Ensure you align the mounting holes on the PCB with the holes on the water block. Also, pay attention not to use too much force when pressing the block down to the PCB, as chip dies are prone to cracking.

2. Attaching the Block to the Graphics Card: Use a Philips head screwdriver to screw in the enclosed M2.5x4 AX1 (8) screws and M2.5x6 AX1 (6). EKWB recommends users start tightening the screws around the GPU core and continue outwards. Always use a plastic washer under each screw. If a washer is already present on the circuit board (usually around the four GPU core screw holes), there is no need for an additional washer.

Step 3: Checking for Contacts

If necessary, temporarily remove the water block to check for uniform surface contact between the block and the components. Pay special attention to the VRM section of the graphics card. Check whether the water block makes contact with the intended integrated circuit. Then, repeat the previous sub-steps to re-attach the block. If you fail to obtain good contact, please check your thermal pad thickness or contact EKWB support at http://www.ekwb.com/support.

Step 4: Installation of Fittings and Tubing

Screw in the two G1/4 threaded male fittings. Attach the liquid cooling tubes and connect the water-block(s) into the cooling circuit. EKWB recommends using EK-ACF fittings with the EK-Vector RTX Aorus 2080Ti series water blocks. To ensure tubes are securely attached to the barb/fittings, use hose clamps or an appropriate substitute.

You can use any opening as an inlet/outlet port. Plug the remaining two openings with the enclosed EK-Plug G1/4 or equivalent.

CAUTION: In case of using connectors other than EK-ACF series compression fittings, take special attention to the length of the fittings' male G1/4" thread. 5mm is the maximum allowed G1/4" thread length!

Step 5: Inserting the Card in Your PC Case

Carefully lift your graphics card with the installed block and insert it into your PC's motherboard PCI-express expansion slot. Be aware that your graphics card is probably heavier than when it was equipped with the original heat sink fan assembly. Be very careful when handling the graphics card. Avoid all unneeded manipulation of the VGA/water block assembly that might damage your card or water block during final installation.

Step 6: Connecting the RGB LED Strip

Plug the 4-pin connector from the water block's RGB LED light to the RGB_HEADER on the motherboard. The LED will work if the pin layout on the header is as follows: +12V GR B.

Please ensure that the arrow indicated on the connector is plugged into the +12V line as indicated on your motherboard. Failure to do so will damage your motherboard or LED strip.

Required Tools

• Scissors
• Philips head screwdriver

Note on Fittings: EKWB recommends using EK-ACF fittings with the EK-Vector RTX Aorus 2080Ti series water blocks.