EK-FC Radeon Vega User Guide
Revision: 1st revision, Aug 3rd 2017
General Information
Content:
- EK Full Cover Waterblock
- Mounting screws
- Thermal interface material
- EK plug G1/4 (2pcs)
Required Tools:
- Scissors
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Torx 6 screwdriver
- 6mm Allen key
Included Components:
- M2,5x4 AX1 screws (16pcs)
- M2,5x6 AX1 screws (13pcs)
- M2,5x8 AXI screws (2pcs)
- M3x4 DIN7985 screws (2pcs)
- M2,5 helix nut (6pcs)
- PVC washer (16pcs)
- Thermal grease (1pc)
Preparing Your Graphics Card
Step 1: Disassembly
Remove all marked screws. Use a Torx 6 screwdriver for the backplate (if present). Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the stock cooler. Remove all heat sink assembly screws, including self-adhesive washers on both sides of the PCB (if present). Remove the encircled screws on the I/O bracket using a Phillips head screwdriver. After removing the housing, unplug the fan and LED connectors.
Diagram Description: The diagram shows a graphics card PCB with various screws and components highlighted. Arrows indicate which screws to remove for the backplate, heat sink assembly, and I/O bracket.
Step 2: Replacing the Original I/O Bracket (Single-slot I/O bracket)
Remove the 4 (four) Phillips head screws from the factory-installed I/O bracket. Replace it with the enclosed EK-FC R9 Fury X I/O bracket and secure it using the 4 (four) original screws.
Diagram Description: The diagram illustrates the removal of the original I/O bracket and the installation of the single-slot I/O bracket using screws.
Applying the Thermal Interface Material
Step 1: Cleaning
Wipe off the remains of the original thermal compound using a non-abrasive cloth or q-tip until the components and circuit board are completely clean. EKWB recommends using denatured alcohol for removing TIM leftovers.
Step 2: Applying Thermal Grease
Apply the enclosed thermal grease on the GPU chip. EKWB recommends applying thermal grease in a cross form for the best performance.
Step 3: Applying Thermal Pads
Your water block comes with thermal pads, some pre-cut and others requiring cutting to size for VRM components like MOSFETs and drivers. Ensure you remove the protective foil from both sides of the thermal pads before installation. Place the thermal pads on the circuit board as shown in the picture. Refer to the numbering in the diagram when applying thermal pads of different sizes or thicknesses.
Diagram Description: The diagram shows the placement of thermal pads and thermal grease on the GPU components. It indicates different types of thermal pads (F - 1.0mm for MOSFET, F - 0.5mm for inductors) and their recommended placement.
Terminal Cover Replacement (Optional)
Remove 2 (two) M4x8 screws using a 2.5 Allen key. Remove the terminal cover and replace it with an alternative one, using 2 (two) M4x8 screws.
Diagram Description: The diagram shows the removal and replacement of the terminal cover using M4x8 screws and an Allen key.
Installing the Water Block
Step 1: Placing the Block onto the Graphics Card
Carefully position the water block with pre-installed standoffs onto the graphics card. Ensure the mounting holes on the PCB align with the holes on the water block. Do not use excessive force when pressing the block down onto the PCB, as chip dies are prone to cracking.
Step 2: Securing the Block to the Graphics Card
Use a Phillips screwdriver to secure the block with the enclosed 16 (sixteen) M2.5x4 AX1 screws. EKWB recommends starting tightening screws around the GPU core and working outwards. Always use a plastic washer under each screw. If a washer is already present on the circuit board (usually around the GPU core screw holes), an additional washer is not needed.
Diagram Description: The diagram shows the water block being placed onto the graphics card and then secured with screws and washers.
Installing the 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. Attach the enclosed plugs to the other two G1/4 openings.
For optimal cooling performance, use the left side of the terminal as the inlet and the right side as the outlet port.
Diagram Description: The diagram illustrates the installation of G1/4 fittings and tubing. It shows the recommended flow direction with 'INLET' on the left and 'OUTLET' on the right.