There may be a potential PSU problem following the use of inexpensive extension cables.
There may be a potential PSU problem following the use of inexpensive extension cables.
Hi Everyone,
I've been operating this setup for roughly a month without any problems until I tried connecting extension cables to my graphics card.
My configuration includes: Windows 11
M/B ; MSI MAG Z790 Edge WIFI (DDR5)
CPU: Intel 13700k
RAM: 64 GB Kingston Fury Beast
PSU: Corsair RM1000i
GPU: XFX RX 7900 XTX
The PSU was previously used and came with its own set of custom cables, which were silvery white, very thin (just under 2mm), but matched the specifications for that particular PSU. I was told by the seller that these were the only ones available.
I bought a set of EZDIY-FAB extension cables to extend them specifically for the GPU, just to organize my build.
After installing the cables, Windows 11 loaded smoothly and I opened Adrenaline to verify everything was stable. I did observe occasional screen glitches lasting a few milliseconds, so I ran the built-in stress test. When I clicked to start it for one minute, the screen went black and froze. The only solution was pressing the power button for four seconds to shut down the system.
It seems the extensions didn’t work well with my custom cables, so I’m trying to figure out what might have caused the problem.
Is the GPU or the PSU the culprit?
I’ve managed to boot an older graphics card (Strix 970 Ti) and it works fine after some troubleshooting. However, this doesn’t fully confirm the issue. The newer card only uses two 8-pin power connectors, whereas the XTX requires three.
Could it be that the PSU is damaged and can no longer provide the required three 8-pin connectors? Or is there another problem?
Currently, I’m using the same PC with an integrated GPU. If I install the XTX and turn it on, the motherboard lights up a white VGA LED, indicating a problem. Before the integrated GPU can be used, I need to disconnect the three 8-pin cables from the GPU.
Also worth mentioning: when the XTX is connected to the PCIe slot, a red LED appears above each of the three power connectors if the cables are unplugged. However, if you reconnect them, the lights turn off, suggesting it’s receiving power.
Do you possess this precise PSU and the corresponding cables? ->
That's a bad move. At least adding more power cables can worsen the ripple in power delivery. In the worst case, it might cause the cables to melt or catch fire. Also, avoid third-party hardware unless you confirm with Corsair first.
For instance, I was using Seasonic PRIME TX-650 and before purchasing custom sleeved power cables, I reached out to Seasonic asking if their CableMod cables would work with the PSU I planned to buy. I also wanted to know if using those custom sleeved cables would affect my warranty. The Seasonic representative responded positively, stating that CableMod cables are top-notch, comparable to Seasonic's own in-house power cables (which come with PSUs) and confirmed that using them wouldn't void the warranty.
This is the correct approach before purchasing your "DIY fabricator" cables.
Based on the current situation and symptoms, your GPU is severely damaged. Additionally, you can't hold Corsair responsible for the issue since you made the mistake.
Moreover:
Why did you opt for the PSU?
🙄
You definitely have the funds to buy a high-quality, new PSU.
Right now, it's time to spend your money on a fresh PSU with warranty coverage.
The PSU is black and the cables differ from those shown in the picture you shared. They are quite thin, just a little under 2mm. The ones in the photo seem closer to 4mm. They've been functioning reliably for about a month on their own. I'm not trying to assign blame anywhere else. I was simply looking for advice to better understand the issue and to determine if it's just the PSU or possibly just the PSU, which is cheaper to replace. Regarding buying used, it's outside the main focus of this post, but it was the first option I considered before opting for a brand new system. I've purchased them secondhand before and have sold parts on eBay in the past. As for finances, I'm currently using finance for over a year on most of my system, excluding the graphics card.
If so, then the cables with PSU are not original and any damage to the system is as significant as the loss. Unless you can find out about those custom sleeved power cables. You might inquire from the seller who sold you the RM1000i with doubtful cables whether they would reimburse your losses, but I suspect they won’t. Well, you tested it with the second GPU, and since the second GPU (Nvidia) functions properly, but the original one does not, your Radeon is beyond repair.
Some PC parts can be acquired used—such as the CPU, RAM, case, and fans. Others are not, like hard drives or GPUs, especially PSUs. Never purchase a used PSU.
So far, you’ve managed to get by with inexpensive used components without too many problems. But your situation has changed, and now you’re facing higher costs. Your Radeon GPU is a 1000-buck model. If you have the means to buy a 1000-buck GPU, you’ll also be able to afford a genuine, new PSU.
For example, here are some good options you can check:
https://pcpartpicker.com/products/compar...P6,XBVmP6/
At the moment, your 1000-buck Radeon GPU is not worth it because you skipped on a quality PSU. Regardless of the analysis, the savings from the RM1000i don’t match the cost of a new GPU and a new PSU. So, do you still believe it’s wise to buy a used PSU?