ASUS GeForce RTX 4090 and RTX 4070 Ti Super VGA Without Conventional Power Connector
ASUS has created a breakthrough again by releasing their newest models, namely the ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4090 BTF and TUF Gaming GeForce RTX 4070 Ti Super BTF. The main uniqueness of these two models is the use of an atypical power connector, replacing the traditional 8- or 12+4-pin power connector with a blade connector. This experiment on the ASUS GeForce RTX 4090 and RTX 4070 Ti Super VGA was first introduced on the TX Gaming GeForce RTX 4070 BTF graphics card last year and received a positive response.
Revolutionary Power Connector
This graphics card offers a different experience by eliminating the need to set up and connect additional power cables. Instead, this card uses blade connectors that give the system a more attractive and organized appearance. However, this approach requires a special motherboard equipped with a dedicated GC-HPWR power connector capable of providing up to 600W of power to the graphics card. Without it, the GPU will not receive the performance it needs to operate optimally.
The Important Role of the Motherboard in the BTF Concept
The BTF concept also involves using a motherboard with all the important connectors routed from front to back. One example is ASUS’s newest motherboard, ROG Maximus Z790 HERO BTF. While it essentially mimics the original Z790 HERO, the new motherboard has all of the product connectors located on the back of the PCB.
Other Interesting Features ASUS GeForce RTX 4090 and RTX 4070 Ti Super VGA
This motherboard is also equipped with a typical ASUS PCIe High Power slot which supports the BTF graphics accelerator and supplies up to 600W of power. The power source for this connector comes from the 12VHPWR connector on the back of the motherboard. Other interesting features include an updated Q-LED to make troubleshooting easier and provide users with quick information about the presence of properly installed DDR5 DIMMs.
Installation Requires a Special Case
To install this motherboard, you need a special computer case where the connectors can be moved to the back of the board. Therefore, ASUS offers the TX Gaming GeForce RTX 4070 BTF graphics card in a package with a custom computer case and motherboard.
Additional Innovation: Special Adapter
Recently, ASUS went a step further by developing the BTF concept and introducing special adapters. This adapter includes a PCIe connector dedicated to the graphics card and a 12+4-pin power connector for connecting to a power source. This adapter allows the use of graphics cards with blade power connectors even with motherboards that are not equipped with a GC-HPWR connector. However, keep in mind that this adapter is currently only suitable for vertical installation of graphics cards.
Driving Industry Towards a Future Without Traditional Power Connectors
ASUS is trying to win other manufacturers’ support for the idea of graphics cards without traditional power connectors. It is possible that the company and their partners will eventually decide to sell complete PCs with BTF components. Along with that, ASUS announced that new cases supporting motherboards with reverse connectors from Aerocool, be quiet!, Cooler Master, Corsair, Inwin, Lian Li, Phanteks, Silverstone, and Thermaltake are expected to be available in the first quarter of this year.
ASUS GeForce RTX 4090 and RTX 4070 Ti Super VGA Price and Availability Details
Unfortunately, the manufacturer does not provide information about the prices of the ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4090 BTF and TUF Gaming GeForce RTX 4070 Ti BTF. Currently, it is not known when both will be sold on the market.
ASUS innovation by introducing the revolutionary BTF graphics card and its supporting motherboard brings a new experience in assembling the system. Wait for further information regarding the price and availability of this product on the market.
