EK-Quantum Vector² Xtreme RTX 3080/90 D-RGB GPU Water Block User Guide

Preparing the Graphics Card

Step 1: Removing the Stock Cooler

Place your graphics card on a flat surface and carefully remove the stock cooler. Ensure all LED and fan connectors are unplugged. Pay attention to these steps when installing the EK-Quantum Vector² Xtreme RTX 3080/3090 water block.

Step 2: Cleaning the PCB

Wipe off any remaining original thermal compound using a non-abrasive cloth or Q-tip until the components and circuit board are completely clean. EK recommends using denatured alcohol for removing TIM leftovers. After cleaning, remove all remaining stock thermal pads from the PCB.

A diagram shows a graphics card PCB with the area for cleaning highlighted.

Preparing the Water Block for Installation

Step 1: Separating Backplate Components

Unscrew six (6) M2.5x8 AX1 screws from the backplate. Remove the backplate along with its screws and standoffs. The standoffs must remain attached to the screws. Remove any cardboard. Save the backplate for later steps.

⚠ Do not remove standoffs from screws! In case a standoff detaches from the screw, replace it with a spare one. Ensure the replacement standoff is screwed onto the AX1 M2.5 x 8 screw, not just pushed onto it.

For this step, you will need: [Phillips Head Screwdriver]

A diagram illustrates the backplate being detached, showing screws and standoffs, with a magnified view of standoff attachment.

Cutting and Placing Thermal Pads

Step 1: Cutting Thermal Pads

Your EK-Quantum Vector² Xtreme RTX 3080/90 D-RGB block includes thermal pads that need to be cut into smaller pieces to cover all VRM components. EK provides an adequate quantity of thermal pads for this step.

⚠ CAUTION: You must remove the protective foil from both sides of the thermal pad before installation.

Replacement thermal pads available:

• Thermal Pad F 1.0 mm – (120 x 16mm) EAN: 3830046996732
• Thermal Pad F 1.5 mm – (120 x 16mm) EAN: 3830046996749
• Thermal Pad F 2.0 mm – (120 x 16mm) EAN: 3830046996756

For this step, you will need: [Scissors]

Diagrams show the three thermal pad sizes (1.0mm, 1.5mm, 2.0mm) with their dimensions.

Step 2: Placing Thermal Pads on Water Block

Once cut to size, place the Thermal Pads onto the water block as shown in the picture. The placement diagram indicates where each specific pad size (F1, F1.5, F2) should be applied to the water block's contact surface.

⚠ Before attaching the PCB to the Water Block, make sure all the Thermal Pads are placed correctly!

Applying Thermal Compound

Step 1: Applying Thermal Compound

Apply the enclosed EK-TIM Ectotherm thermal grease (thermal compound) on the GPU's IHS (Integrated Heat Spreader) as shown in the image. The layer of thermal compound must be thin and even over the entire surface of the IHS.

⚠ The excessive or uneven application of thermal grease may lead to poor performance!

For this step, you will need: [Thermal Grease]

A diagram shows the GPU's IHS with an 'X' marking the area for thermal compound application.

Attaching the Water Block

Step 1: Positioning the Water Block

Carefully position the water block with pre-installed standoffs onto the graphics card. During this process, ensure the mounting holes of the PCB are aligned with the holes of the water block.

⚠ Before attaching the PCB to the Water Block, make sure all the Thermal Pads are placed correctly!

A diagram illustrates the water block being lowered onto the GPU, aligning mounting holes.

Step 2: Securing the Water Block

Use seven (7) M2.5 x 4 AX1 Screws and PVC washers to tighten the PCB onto the water block. Tighten the screws evenly using the Phillips-head screwdriver. EK recommends starting tightening the screws around the GPU core first, and then continuing outward to prevent damage to the GPU.

For this step, you will need:

• M2.5 x 4 AX1 Screws (7 pcs)
• M2.5 PVC Washer (7 pcs)
• [Phillips Head Screwdriver]

A diagram shows the screws and washers being inserted into the water block and PCB, with arrows indicating the tightening sequence. Screws must be present in the marked locations.

Preparing the Backplate

Step 1: Placing Thermal Pads on GPU PCB

After attaching the water block, a few more thermal pads need to be cut into smaller pieces to cover necessary components on the GPU PCB. EK provides an adequate quantity of thermal pads for this step.

⚠ CAUTION: You must remove the protective foil from both sides of the thermal pad before installation.

Replacement thermal pads available:

• Thermal Pad F 1.0 mm – (120 x 16mm) EAN: 3830046996732
• Thermal Pad F 1.5 mm – (120 x 16mm) EAN: 3830046996749
• Thermal Pad F 2.0 mm – (120 x 16mm) EAN: 3830046996756

Diagrams show the specific placement of thermal pads (labeled F1, F1.5, F2) on the GPU PCB for the 3080/3080Ti and 3090 models.

Attaching the Backplate

Step 1: Securing the Backplate

Place the backplate with six (6) M2.5x8 AX1 Screws and Standoffs onto the PCB. Ensure all holes are aligned. Do not use excessive force.

⚠ Before attaching the backplate, make sure all the Thermal Pads are placed correctly!

For this step, you will need: [Phillips Head Screwdriver]

A diagram shows the backplate being attached to the GPU assembly with screws and standoffs.

Inserting the Graphics Card into the Chassis

Carefully lift your graphics card with the installed water block and insert it into your PC's motherboard PCI Express expansion slot. Please keep in mind that your graphics card is heavier than before it was equipped with the water block.

⚠ You need to be very careful when handling the graphics card. Avoid all unnecessary manipulation of the water block assembly that might damage your card or water block.

Fittings and Tubing

Step 1: Connecting Fittings

Screw in two (2) G1/4 threaded male fittings. Attach the liquid cooling tubes and connect the water block to the cooling loop.

⚠ Do not forget to plug the remaining two openings using the enclosed EK-Plug G1/4 or its equivalent.

EK recommends using EK fittings with all EK water blocks.

⚠ CAUTION: When using connectors other than EK fittings, pay special attention to the length of the fittings' male G1/4″ thread – 5mm is the maximum G1/4" thread length allowed!

For this step, you will need: [EK-Loop Multi Allen Key]

A diagram shows the installation of fittings and tubing onto the water block terminals.

Connecting the D-RGB LED Strip

Step 1: Connecting the LED Strip

Plug the 3-pin connector of the distribution plate D-RGB LED light to the D-RGB HEADER on the motherboard. The LED will work if the pin layout on the header is as follows: +5V, Digital, Empty, Ground.

⚠ Incorrect installation or installation to a wrong header can damage the LED strip or the header itself!

A diagram illustrates the D-RGB LED connector being plugged into a motherboard header.

Testing the Loop

To ensure the installation of EK components was successful, EK recommends performing a leak test for 24 hours. When your loop is complete and filled with coolant, connect the pump to a PSU outside of your system. Do not connect power to any other components. Turn on the PSU and let the pump run continuously. It is normal for the coolant level to drop during this process as air collects in the distribution plate. Inspect all parts of the loop. If coolant leaks are found, fix the issue and repeat the testing process. Ensure all hardware is dry before the system is powered on to prevent any damage.

Warranty

EK products are warranted against defects of materials and quality for a period of 24 months, starting with the date of delivery to the end-user. During this period, products will be repaired or have parts replaced at EK's discretion, provided that:

1. The product is returned to the agent from whom it was purchased.
2. The product has been purchased by the end-user and has not been used for commercial purposes.
3. The product has not been misused, handled carelessly, or used in a manner other than described in the instructions manual.

This warranty does not confer rights other than those expressly set out above and does not cover any claims for consequential loss or damage. This warranty is offered as an extra benefit and does not affect your statutory rights as a consumer. This warranty is voided if the product comes in contact with aggressive UV additives or other improper liquids. EK water blocks are sealed with a warranty-voiding circular label, proving the water block has withstood a pressure leak test. Removing this label will void the leak-free guarantee, but not the guarantee on the product itself. Any other RMA issues can be reported to EK Customer Support at www.ekwb.com/support for further analysis.

Support and Service

For assistance or to order spare parts or a new mounting mechanism, please contact EK Customer Support at https://www.ekwb.com/customer-support/.

For spare parts orders, refer to the "TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND WATER BLOCK PARTS" section to find the EAN number of each part. Include the EAN number and quantity in your request. Mounting Mechanism EAN can be found under "BOX CONTENTS".

Thermal pads are readily available in the EK shop.

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