There are already some devices on the market designed to increase the reliability and improve the safety of the 16-pin power connector used in modern graphics cards. New products include upgraded cables and adapters that ensure stability and prevent overloads. Manufacturers are actively working on innovative solutions to minimize the risks of overheating and damage. However, a repair specialist from China (a woman) decided that the most reliable option is to completely replace the connector.
The repairwoman and author of the Pretty Female Repairman channel claims to have performed many such operations. On already damaged cards, she removes the melted power connector and replaces it with a new one featuring thicker contacts. So far, no one has reportedly returned to her with damaged cards after such a replacement. Experts note that thicker contacts can indeed handle higher currents, but they address only the consequences, not the root cause of the issue.
Thicker contacts do not solve the underlying problem but can better withstand the effects of increased current on one or two lines, which is usually what causes graphics cards to burn out. GPU manufacturers are actively exploring new materials and designs to prevent this. Naturally, such a replacement cannot be performed at home by an average user, and preventive replacement would void the warranty, but for already damaged adapters, it could be a good option. There are also discussions about improving thermal cooling methods to reduce the risk of overheating.
