Installation

Installation is fairly simple here, given the use of same-type screws and washers that screw into the pressed standoffs in the cold plate. I begin with the reference GTX 1080 PCB itself as the scope of this article does not cover disassembly of the GPU cooler. Begin with cutting and applying the thermal pads as per the manual, and I will note that Phanteks has not only provided more than enough to cover everything, but that they are also covering the Vdd (voltage drain) VRMs and the usual power delivery VRMs. I am not sure if that helps, but I do not mind spending the extra ~30 seconds doing so. Note also that the thermal pads, as with any other, come with a plastic cover on both sides. These need to be removed prior to installation.

Once done, apply some TIM in a pattern of your choosing. Above, I went with how Phanteks recommends it, and in general, you will want to have a good spread but not too thick a layer. I always recommend removing the block to examine your TIM spread before re-applying the TIM in a different way if necessary. Lastly, lay the block over the GPU carefully, aligning the standoffs with the holes in the PCB, and then flip it over to aid in installation. Alternatively, you can place the block upside down with the cold plate facing toward you to then maneuver the PCB in place over it. Once done, simply use the provided screws and washers to secure the two together as described in the manual. Not all holes in the PCB get used, and this is not an issue at all. Proceed with the four corners around the GPU, tightening lightly, and proceed outwards to finish, tightening everything up as you do.


Now is when you want to connect the appropriate RGB LED cables as well. Once done, route them under the card for cable management. I do not have a Phanteks case or a compatible motherboard available, so excuse the lack of any lighting tests here.

I removed the block to examine how good a contact it made with the PCB and was fairly pleased with the results. Most thermal pads showed very good contact, and all of them made some contact at the very minimum. The TIM spread was also fairly decent. Overall, good job with installation even though the manual itself may not be the most informative.

Note also that I have an EVGA GTX 1080 ACX 3.0 card and that the stock backplate does not fit the block with the stock screws. Phanteks is accounting for the NVIDIA Founders Edition backplate only, and that should work fine with the stock screws as per the manual.