EK-Quantum Vector² XC3 RTX 3080/90 ABP Set D-RGB GPU Water Block User Guide
This guide provides detailed instructions for installing the EK-Quantum Vector² XC3 RTX 3080/90 ABP Set D-RGB GPU water block.
Introduction and Important Guidelines
This product is intended for installation by expert users only. Consult with a qualified technician if necessary. Improper installation may result in damage to your equipment. EK assumes no liability for damage caused by improper installation or use. Instructions are subject to change without notice. For the latest information, visit the official EK website: www.ekwb.com ?.
Before beginning installation, please follow these guidelines:
- Carefully read the entire manual before starting the installation process.
- For safety, remove your graphics card from the computer to prevent damage to the GPU or its circuit board (PCB).
- EK Fittings require minimal force to screw in firmly, as the liquid seal is provided by rubber O-ring gaskets.
- Using corrosion-inhibiting coolants is always recommended for liquid cooling systems and mandatory for nickel-plated water blocks.
- Do not use pure distilled water.
- For optimal performance, EK recommends EK-CryoFuel coolants and thorough bleeding of air from the water block.
Box Contents
The package includes the following components:
- EK-Quantum Vector² XC3 RTX 3080/90 ABP Set D-RGB (Main Unit)
- M2.5x4 AX1 Screws (8 pcs)
- M2.5x8 AX1 Screw (1 pc)
- Standoff Ø4.5/2.5 (1 pc)
- M3x10 AX1 Screw (1 pc)
- Polyamid Washer M2.5 0.5mm (8 pcs)
- Standoff M2.5-M3 x 6.6mm (1 pc)
- EK-Loop Multi Allen Key (1 pc)
- Quantum Plug (2 pcs)
- Terminal OR - Vector² 14x1 mm (2 pcs)
- Nut M2.5 (2 pcs)
- Allen Key 2.5 mm (1 pc) (EAN: 104549)
- Allen Key 2 mm (1 pc)
- EK-Plug Out Spludger Tool (1 pc)
- Thermal Grease (1 pc)
- Thermal Pad F 1.0 mm (6 pcs) (EAN: 3830046996732)
- Thermal Pad F 1.5 mm (1 pc) (EAN: 3830046996749)
- Thermal Pad F 2.0 mm (2 pcs) (EAN: 3830046996756)
Water Block Dimensions
The water block has the following dimensions: Length: 302.5 mm, Height: 134 mm, Width: 41 mm. The terminal block adds to the height and width.
Technical Specifications and Water Block Parts
The EK-Quantum Vector² water block is available in two main variants:
NICKEL PLEXI
- Dimensions: 302.5 x 134 x 41 mm
- D-RGB LED Count: 34
- D-RGB Cable Length: 50 cm
- D-RGB Connector: 3-pin 5V digital LED header
NICKEL ACETAL
- Dimensions: 302.5 x 134 x 41 mm
- D-RGB LED Count: 28
- D-RGB Cable Length: 50 cm
- D-RGB Connector: 3-pin 5V digital LED header
Detailed part lists with EAN numbers are available in the manual for reference when ordering spare parts.
Installation Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Graphics Card - Removing Stock Cooler
You will need a Phillips Head Screwdriver ?.
For GPU Versions Without a Backplate: Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the eleven marked screws and the Stock Cooler Backplate from the GPU's backside. Do not remove the unmarked I/O Bracket screw. Carefully detach the PCB from the stock cooler and disconnect all connecting cables. Remove the stock cooler slowly, as it may be firmly attached by thermal pads.
For GPU Versions With a Backplate: Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the twelve marked screws and the Stock Cooler Backplate from the backplate's side. Carefully detach the PCB from the stock cooler and the backplate, and disconnect all connecting cables. Remove the stock cooler slowly, as it may be firmly attached by thermal pads.
Step 2: Cleaning the PCB
Wipe off the original thermal compound using a nonabrasive cloth or Q-tip until the components and circuit board are completely clean. Denatured alcohol is recommended for removing any remaining thermal interface material (TIM) residue. After cleaning, remove all stock thermal pads from the PCB.
Step 3: Preparing the Water Block
Part 1: Terminal Badge and Screws: First, remove the terminal badge attached by magnets. Unscrew three (3) M4x20 DIN7984 screws located under the badge. Additionally, remove eight (8) M3x10 AX1 screws as shown in the diagram. Important: DO NOT REMOVE THE UPPER TERMINAL BADGE!
Tools required: Phillips Head Screwdriver ?, Allen Key 2.5mm ?.
Part 2: Active Backplate Removal: Carefully remove the complete active backplate along with the terminal. Two (2) O-rings 14 x 1 EPDM50 also need to be removed.
Step 4: Standoffs and PCB Cardboard Removal
Unscrew eight (8) M2.5-M3 x 6.6 standoffs using the included EK-Plug Out Spludger Tool ?️. Ensure you do not unscrew the M3.5-M2.5 x 11.3 standoffs. If they are accidentally loosened, retighten them with a 4 mm wrench. After removing the standoffs, the PCB cardboard, which is printed on a 1:1 scale, must be removed.
Tool required: EK-Plug Out Spludger Tool ?️.
Step 5: Cutting and Placing Thermal Pads
The water block includes thermal pads that must be cut into smaller pieces to cover VRM components like COILs, MOSFETs, and drivers. Remove the protective foil from both sides of each thermal pad before installation.
Placement Guide:
- For 3080/3080Ti: Use F1.0 mm pads on VRM components, F1.5 mm pads on VRM components and memory chips, and F2.0 mm pads on memory chips.
- For 3090: Use F1.0 mm pads on VRM components, F1.5 mm pads on VRM components and memory chips, and F2.0 mm pads on memory chips.
Refer to the diagrams for precise placement. Replacement thermal pads are available with EANs: F1.0 mm (3830046996732), F1.5 mm (3830046996749), F2.0 mm (3830046996756).
Tool required: Scissors ✂️.
Step 6: Applying Thermal Compound
Apply the enclosed EK-TIM Ectotherm thermal grease thinly and evenly across the GPU's heat spreader (IHS). Excessive or uneven application may lead to reduced performance.
Tool required: Thermal Grease ?.
Step 7: Attaching the Water Block
Part 1: Initial Placement: Carefully position the water block, with pre-installed standoffs, onto the graphics card. Ensure the mounting holes of the PCB align with the holes on the water block. Avoid using excessive force, as GPU chip dies are fragile.
Part 2: Securing the PCB: Use six (6) M2.5 x 4 AX1 Screws and PVC washers to attach the PCB to the water block. Tighten the screws evenly with a Phillips-head screwdriver. After securing the PCB, use one (1) M2.5 x 8 AX1 Screw and one (1) M2.5 Nut to secure the I/O Bracket.
Tool required: Phillips Head Screwdriver ?.
Step 8: Attaching the Active Backplate
Part 1: O-rings and Placement: Insert two (2) O-rings 14 x 1 into the designated slots on the cold plate. Carefully place the active backplate onto the standoffs, ensuring the O-rings remain in their slots.
Part 2: Securing the Backplate: Place eight (8) M3 x 10 AX1 screws into the water block standoffs and tighten them with a Phillips head screwdriver. Subsequently, attach three (3) terminal screws (M4 x 20 DIN7984) using the Allen Key 2.5mm. The terminal badge can be reused after securing these screws. Be cautious not to use excessive force when tightening.
Tools required: Phillips Head Screwdriver ?, Allen Key 2.5mm ?.
Fittings and Tubing
Screw in two (2) G1/4 threaded male fittings. Attach the liquid cooling tubes and connect the water block to your cooling loop. Ensure the remaining two openings are plugged using the enclosed EK-Plug G1/4 or an equivalent plug. EK recommends using EK fittings with all EK water blocks. If using non-EK fittings, ensure the male G1/4" thread length does not exceed 5mm.
Tool required: EK-Loop Multi Allen Key ?.
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. Note that the graphics card will be heavier than before. Handle the graphics card with extreme care to avoid unnecessary manipulation that could damage the card or water block assembly.
Connecting the D-RGB LED Strip
Plug the 3-pin connector of the distribution plate's D-RGB LED light into the motherboard's D-RGB HEADER. The LED will function correctly if the header pin layout is: +5V, Digital, Empty, Ground. ⚠️ Incorrect installation or connection to the wrong header can damage the LED strip or the header itself.
Testing the Loop
To ensure successful installation, perform a leak test for 24 hours. Once the loop is complete and filled with coolant, connect the pump to a PSU outside your system. Do not connect power to other components. Turn on the PSU to run the pump continuously. A drop in coolant level is normal as air collects in the distribution plate. Inspect all loop components for leaks; if leaks are found, fix them and repeat the testing process. Ensure all hardware is dry before powering on the system to prevent damage.
Warranty
EK products are warranted against defects in materials and quality for 24 months from the date of delivery. During this period, products will be repaired or have parts replaced at EK's discretion, provided the product is returned to the point of purchase, was purchased by the end-user, and has not been misused, handled carelessly, or used contrary to the manual. This warranty does not confer rights beyond those stated and does not cover consequential loss or damage. It is an additional benefit and does not affect statutory consumer rights. The warranty is void if the product contacts aggressive UV additives or other improper liquids. EK water blocks are sealed with a warranty-voiding label proving a pressure leak test. Removing this label voids the leak-free guarantee but not the product guarantee itself. For RMA issues, contact EK Customer Support at www.ekwb.com/support ?.
Support and Service
For assistance, spare parts, or a new mounting mechanism, please contact EK Customer Support via https://www.ekwb.com/customer-support/ ?. For spare parts orders, refer to the "TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND WATER BLOCK PARTS" section for EAN numbers. The Mounting Mechanism EAN can be found under "BOX CONTENTS". Thermal pads are available in the EK shop.
