Troubleshooting and Repairing a Cracked GPU: Unleash the Power of a Restored 3090 Graphics Card

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Issue: Cracked PCB and Bent Frame
3. Assessing the Power Rail and Signal Status
4. Identifying the Prime Suspect: Driver Mosfet
5. testing the Connection between the Driver Mosfet and Controller
6. Exploring Other Possible Causes
7. Lifting the Core: Uncovering Red Pads
8. Testing Power Stages and Uncovering a Missing Stage
9. Addressing the Issue with a Wire Connection
10. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will delve into the world of GPU troubleshooting and repair. Specifically, we will tackle an issue involving a cracked PCB and a bent frame on a GPU. We will take a step-by-step approach to identify the root cause of the problem and explore potential solutions. So, let's jump right in and fix this GPU like true gangsters!

The Issue: Cracked PCB and Bent Frame

Upon initial inspection, we discover a cracked frame and a dent on the GPU's PCB. It seems that the damage was either caused by a drop or a kick. While the bent corner might not be a major concern, fixing the crack is imperative. We need to assess the depth of the crack and determine its impact on the GPU's functionality.

Assessing the Power Rail and Signal Status

Before diving into the GPU's internals, let's power it on and see how it behaves. Initial tests show promising signs with the presence of the 5-volt, 1.8 PC core, and memory. However, further investigation reveals a lack of signal on some power stages, and the GPU is not detected. We need to explore this issue further and check every power rail for proper operation.

Identifying the Prime Suspect: Driver Mosfet

While troubleshooting in the BIOS, we Notice that only two power stages are active. One driver Mosfet stands out from the rest as it does not exhibit any pulses like the others. This Mosfet becomes a prime suspect, and we must thoroughly examine all of its pins.

Testing the Connection between the Driver Mosfet and Controller

To confirm our suspicion, we test the connection between the PWM Pin and the controller. Unfortunately, there is no connection between the two points. This leads us to conclude that more digging is required to uncover the root cause. However, before proceeding, we decide to run a wire from the test pad to the test point at the controller side to verify if it resolves the issue.

Exploring Other Possible Causes

Despite our efforts, connecting the wire does not yield any positive outcome. At this point, we need to consider alternative explanations for the power stage shutdowns. Could it be a lack of feedback from the GPU core? To find out, we decide to lift the core and inspect the area beneath it.

Lifting the Core: Uncovering Red Pads

Upon lifting the core, we discover numerous red pads beneath it. These damaged pads could potentially be causing our problems. However, it is difficult to determine if fixing them will solve the issue without further testing. To assess the full power stages, we reconnect the GPU to a computer.

Testing Power Stages and Uncovering a Missing Stage

After connecting the GPU to a computer, we observe that all power stages are functioning except one. This indicates that we need to continue our investigation. However, due to concerns about further weakening the area through additional digging, we decide to address the issue by connecting the missing stage with a wire.

Addressing the Issue with a Wire Connection

With the wire connection in place, the GPU now receives the required signal, and an image is successfully outputted. This achievement solidifies our status as GPU gangsters. After cleaning and reassembling the GPU, we eagerly await the automatic installation of a driver to complete the repair process.

Conclusion

In this journey of troubleshooting and repair, we have successfully tackled a GPU with a cracked PCB, bent frame, and power stage issues. By identifying the prime suspect, testing connections, and making the necessary wire connections, we have restored the GPU's functionality. Remember to reward us with a like and comment, and if you're new here, don't forget to subscribe to our Channel for more exciting videos. Stay tuned for our next GPU adventure!

Highlights:

• Troubleshooting a GPU with a cracked PCB and bent frame
• Assessing power rail and signal status through BIOS
• Identifying the prime suspect: problematic driver Mosfet
• Testing connections between driver Mosfet and controller
• Lifting the core to uncover damaged red pads
• Addressing power stage issues and making wire connections
• Successful restoration of GPU functionality

FAQ:

Q: What causes a cracked PCB and bent frame on a GPU? A: A cracked PCB and bent frame can be a result of mishandling, such as dropping or kicking the GPU.

Q: What are the potential consequences of a cracked PCB on a GPU? A: A cracked PCB can lead to various issues, including power stage shutdowns, signal loss, and overall instability.

Q: Why is it important to test connections between the driver Mosfet and controller? A: Testing these connections helps identify any faulty connections that may be causing power stage issues.

Q: Can damaged red pads under the GPU core affect its functionality? A: Yes, damaged red pads can disrupt the GPU's functionality by causing power stage shutdowns and other technical problems.