Installation and Mounting Manual for EK-Vector Strix RTX 2080 Ti Backplate
This product is intended for installation only by expert users. Please consult with a qualified technician for installation. Improper installation may result in damage to your equipment. EK Water Blocks assumes no liability whatsoever, expressed or implied, for the use of these products, nor their installation. The following instructions are subject to change without notice. Please visit our web site at www.ekwb.com for updates. Before installation of this product please read important notice, disclosure and warranty conditions printed on the back of the box.
STEP 1: GENERAL INFORMATION
Sample picture of ROG Strix GeForce RTX 2080 Ti graphics card.
Description of Visual: The image displays the top side of a ROG Strix GeForce RTX 2080 Ti graphics card, showing its complex PCB layout, various electronic components, memory modules, VRM heatsinks, and the central GPU area. The card's aesthetic design, including its shroud and fan assembly, is also visible.
STEP 2: PREPARING YOUR GRAPHICS CARD
The EK-Vector Strix RTX 2080 Ti Backplate is designed for straightforward installation. First, ensure the EK-Vector Strix RTX 2080 Ti series water block is installed according to its specific installation manual. If the water block is already in place, refer to the diagram below to identify which mounting screws should remain and which need to be removed. Specifically, please remove the six (6) M2.5x4 AX1 screws and their associated PVC washers, as indicated by the arrows in the diagram.
Description of Visual: This diagram shows the back of a graphics card PCB. Arrows point to specific locations where six M2.5x4 AX1 screws and their PVC washers are to be removed. Other mounting points are also visible, indicating where screws should be left in place for the backplate installation.
STEP 3: APPLYING THE THERMAL PADS
The EK-Vector Strix RTX 2080 Ti Backplate provides passive cooling for the printed circuit board and its components. It is mandatory to install the enclosed thermal pads. Please install the provided 1.5mm and 1mm thick thermal pads (Thermal Pad G - 1.5mm (120x24mm) and Thermal Pad F - 1mm (120x16mm)) as illustrated in the picture. You may need to trim any excess thermal pad material for a precise fit.
Description of Visual: This illustration shows the EK-Vector Strix RTX 2080 Ti Backplate with the placement of thermal pads. Two distinct thermal pads are depicted: 'Thermal PAD F - 1mm (120x16mm)' and 'Thermal PAD G - 1,5mm (120x24mm)'. The diagram indicates their approximate positions on the backplate, suggesting where they will make contact with components on the graphics card PCB.
STEP 4: ATTACHING EK-VECTOR STRIX RTX 2080 Ti BACKPLATE TO THE GRAPHICS CARD
Take the enclosed mounting screws and install them as shown in the picture below. Use the six (6) M2.5x7 AX1 screws and tighten them using a Philips head screwdriver.
HINT: Do not fully tighten screws until all of them are positioned in their mounting holes. The backplate features milled-in standoffs, which prevent over-tightening. However, avoid excessive force as it is not necessary.
It is crucial to note that this product is intended for use exclusively with EK-Vector Strix RTX 2080 Ti series water blocks. No other third-party heatsinks or coolers are officially supported, and EK does not provide assistance or support for such applications.
Description of Visual: This diagram illustrates the final assembly step. It shows the EK-Vector Strix RTX 2080 Ti Backplate being aligned and attached to the graphics card. Six M2.5x7 AX1 screws are depicted being inserted through the backplate into the graphics card's mounting points. A Philips head screwdriver is shown, indicating the tool for tightening.
IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES
VERY IMPORTANT NOTICE:
Once the installation is completed, it is recommended to perform a leak test of the cooling circuit before powering up the computer. A 24-hour leak test is advised. Do not test the water block using city water pressure, as this can rupture the housing and render the block unusable, voiding the warranty. While every effort has been made to provide comprehensive instructions, EK Water Blocks assumes no liability for consequential damage(s) to your equipment resulting from the use of EK Water Blocks cooling products, whether due to errors, omissions, or product defects.
WARRANTY
EK Water Blocks products are warranted against defects in materials or workmanship for a period of 24 months from 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:
- (I) The product is returned to the agent from whom it was purchased.
- (II) The product was purchased by an end user and not for commercial purposes.
- (III) The product has not been misused, handled carelessly, or used in a manner inconsistent with the provided installation and usage instructions.
This warranty does not confer rights beyond those expressly stated and does not cover claims for consequential loss or damage. It is an additional benefit and does not affect statutory consumer rights. The warranty is voided if the product comes into contact with aggressive UV additives or other improper liquids. EK blocks are sealed with a 'warranty void' circular label, confirming a successful pressure leak test. Removing this label voids the leak-free guarantee but not the product guarantee itself. For any other RMA issues, please contact EK Support at www.ekwb.com/support for further analysis.
REQUIRED TOOLS AND MOUNTING SCREWS
- Philips head screwdriver
- Scissors (for trimming thermal pads, if necessary)
