Installation Manual for EK-FC1080 GTX Ti Strix RGB 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)
• 6mm Allen key (1pc)
• 2.5mm Allen key (1pc)
• PVC Washer (16pcs)
• Thermal grease (1pc)
• EK plug G1/4 (2pcs)
• 1pc
• Replacement mounting mechanism: FC - Tip F (M2,5 x AX1)

Step 1: Preparing Your Graphics Card

1. Removing Stock Cooler

Remove all encircled screws. This includes self-adhesive washers on both sides of the PCB and screws on the IO bracket. Unplug the fan and RGB LED panel after removing the housing.

2. Removing Factory Provided Backplate

Remove all encircled screws using pliers. Also remove the two screws on the IO bracket using a Phillips screwdriver.

1. Cleaning the PCB

Carefully detach the original stock cooler. Wipe off the original thermal compound using a non-abrasive cloth or q-tip until the components and circuit board are clean. Denatured alcohol is recommended for removing TIM leftovers.

2. Applying Thermal Compound

Lightly coat the NVIDIA GPU chip with the enclosed EK-TIM Ectotherm thermal grease. Apply the thermal grease in a cross form for best performance.

3. Cutting Thermal Pads

Your block comes with thermal pads. Some are pre-cut; others need to be cut to size for VRM components. Remove the protective foil from both sides of the thermal pads before installation.

• Thermal Pad E - 0.5mm (for memory IC): 8 pieces
• Thermal Pad F - 1mm (for Mosfet): 2 pieces

4. Placing Thermal Pads on PCB

Place thermal pads on the circuit board as shown in the diagrams. Refer to the numbering in the previous picture when applying thermal pads of different sizes or thicknesses. EK provides an adequate quantity of thermal pads.

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, aligning the mounting holes. Avoid excessive force to prevent cracking chip dies.

2. Attaching the Block to the Graphic Card

Use the enclosed M2.5x4 AX1 screws with a Philips screwdriver. Start tightening screws around the GPU core and move outwards. Always use a plastic washer under each screw. If a washer is already present, no additional washer is needed.

Required:

• Plastic washer (13pcs)
• M2.5x4 AX1 screws
• Philips head screwdriver

Step 3: Checking for Contacts

Temporarily remove the water block to check for uniform surface contact, especially on the VRM section. Ensure the water block makes contact with the intended integrated circuit. Re-attach the block. If contact is poor, check thermal pad thickness or contact 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 EK-ACF fittings. Use hose clamps or an appropriate substitute to secure tubes to the fittings.

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: If using fittings other than EK-ACF compression fittings, ensure the male G1/4" thread length does not exceed 5mm.

Diagram:

Shows a water block with INLET and OUTLET ports, connected to tubing via compression fittings and G1/4 plugs.

Step 5: Inserting the Card in Your PC Case

Carefully lift the graphics card with the installed block and insert it into the motherboard's PCI-express expansion slot. Handle the card with care to avoid damaging the VGA/water block assembly.

Step 6: Connecting the RGB LED Strip

Plug the 4-pin connector from the water block's RGB LED strip to the RGB_HEADER on the motherboard. Ensure the pin layout on the header is +12V GR B. The arrow on the connector should align with the +12V line on your motherboard. Incorrect connection may damage the motherboard or LED strip.

Required Tools:

• Scissors
• Philips head screwdriver

Diagram:

Shows the RGB LED connector and its connection to the motherboard's RGB HEADER, indicating the +12V, G, R, B pins.