EK-Quantum Vector TUF RTX 3080/3090 GPU Water Block User Guide
Before you start using this product, please follow these basic guidelines:
- Carefully read the manual before beginning with the installation process.
- Remove your graphics card from the computer for the safest mounting process to prevent any possible damage to your GPU or its circuit board (PCB).
- EK Fittings require only a small amount of force to screw them firmly in place since the liquid seal is ensured with the rubber O-ring gaskets.
- The use of quality market-proven corrosion-inhibiting coolants is always strongly recommended for any liquid cooling system.
- Do not use pure distilled water as a cooling liquid! For best results, EK recommends the use of EK-CryoFuel Coolants.
- Make sure to bleed air out of your water block thoroughly in order to reach optimal performance.
Box Contents
The box contains the EK-Quantum Vector TUF RTX 3080/3090 D-RGB water block and various accessories for installation.
Included Components:
- EK-Quantum Vector TUF RTX 3080/3090 D-RGB
- M2,5x4 AX1 Screws (16 pcs)
- M2,5x6 AX1 Screws (13 pcs)
- M2,5x8 AX1 Screws (2 pcs)
- M2.5 PVC Washers (16 pcs)
- Thermal Grease (1 pc)
- EK-Plug G1/4 (2 pcs)
- M3x4 DIN7985 Screws (2 pcs)
- EK-Loop Multi Allen Key (1 pc)
- Thermal Pad F 1.0 mm (2 pcs)
- Thermal Pad G 1.0 mm (2 pcs)
- M2.5 Nuts (2 pcs)
- Allen Key 2.5 mm (1 pc)
Note: The mounting mechanism is universal; you may not need all the screws.
Required Tools
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
- Scissors
Water Block Dimensions
The water block has the following dimensions: Length: 267 mm, Width: 133 mm, Height: 148 mm. The thickness of the I/O port is 16.5 mm, and the bottom thickness is 14.6 mm.
Preparing the Graphics Card
Step 1: Removing the Stock Cooler
Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws holding the stock cooler (eight screws) and the separate smaller heatsink (six screws) to the PCB. After removing all fourteen screws, carefully detach the PCB with the backplate from the stock cooler and disconnect the two cables connected to the PCB. Remove the stock cooler slowly, as it might be firmly glued to the PCB with thermal pads.
Step 2: Removing the Stock Backplate
Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove five screws marked in the image and detach the stock backplate from the PCB.
Step 3: Cleaning the PCB
Wipe off the remains of the original thermal compound using a nonabrasive cloth or Q-tip, preferably with denatured alcohol, until the components and circuit board are completely clean. Remove all remaining stock thermal pads from the PCB.
Cutting and Placing Thermal Pads
Step 1: Prepare Thermal Pads
Your GPU water block comes with thermal pads that need to be cut into smaller pieces to cover all VRM components, such as COILs, MOSFETs, and drivers. Ensure you remove the protective foil from both sides of the thermal pad before installation.
Thermal Pads Included:
- 2x Thermal Pad F 1.0 mm – (120 x 16 mm) EAN: 3830046996732
- 2x Thermal Pad G 1.0 mm – (120 x 24 mm) EAN: 3830046996770
Place the cut thermal pads on the PCB as illustrated in the diagram, ensuring adequate coverage of components.
Applying Thermal Compound
Step 1: Apply Thermal Grease
Apply the enclosed EK-TIM Ectotherm thermal grease (thermal compound) on the CPU heat spreader – IHS. The layer of the thermal compound must be thin and even over the entire surface of the IHS. Excessive or uneven application may lead to poor performance.
Installing the Water Block
Step 1: Placing the Block on the Graphics Card
Carefully position the water block with preinstalled standoffs on the graphics card. Ensure the mounting holes of the PCB are aligned with the holes of the water block.
Step 2: Attaching the Block to the Graphics Card
Use thirteen (13) M2.5 x 4 AX1 screws and M2.5 PVC washers. Tighten the screws evenly using the Phillips head screwdriver. Start tightening the screws around the GPU core first, and then continue outward to prevent damage to the GPU. Always use a plastic washer under each screw. Pay attention not to use too much force, as chip dies are prone to cracking.
Checking for Contact
If necessary, temporarily remove the water block to check for uniform surface contact between the block and components. Pay special attention to the VRM section of the graphics card and check if the water block makes contact with the intended integrated circuit. Repeat the previous steps if needed. In case of poor contact, please check again or contact EKWB support at https://www.ekwb.com/customer-support/.
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 PCIe expansion slot. Be mindful that your graphics card is now heavier. Handle the graphics card assembly with care to avoid damaging the card or the water block.
Installation of Fittings and Tubing
Step 1: Attach Fittings and Tubing
Screw-in two (2) G1/4 threaded male fittings. Attach the liquid cooling tubes and connect the water block(s) to the cooling loop. Plug the remaining two openings with the enclosed EK-Plug G1/4 or its equivalent. You can use any opening as an inlet/outlet port. EK recommends using EK fittings with all EK water blocks. When using connectors other than EK fittings, ensure the male G1/4” thread length does not exceed 5mm.
Connecting the D-RGB LED Strip
Step 1: Connect LED Strip
Plug the 4-pin D-RGB connector from the GPU water block to the D-RGB Header on your motherboard or controller. The LED strip will work only if the pin layout on the header is as follows: +5V, Data, Empty, Ground. Incorrect installation or connection to a wrong header can damage the LED strip or the header itself.
Testing the Loop
To ensure the successful installation of EK components, perform a 24-hour leak test. When your loop is complete and filled with coolant, connect the pump to a PSU outside of your system. Turn on the PSU and let the pump run continuously. Inspect all parts of the loop for leaks. If leaks are found, fix the issue and repeat the testing process. Ensure all hardware is dry before powering on the system to prevent possible damage.
Support and Service
For assistance, please contact EKWB d.o.o. at Pod lipami 18, 1218 Komenda, Slovenia - EU, or visit http://support.ekwb.com/.
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