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PREPARING THE GRAPHICS CARD
STEP 1
REMOVING THE STOCK COOLER
OPTION 1 – GPU Versions Without a Backplate
Some versions of this GPU don’t have a backplate (e.g., EVGA GeForce
RTX 3080 XC3 BLACK GAMING).
Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the eleven marked screws
and the Stock Cooler Backplate from the backside of the GPU. You do
not have to remove the unmarked I/O Bracket screw.
Carefully detach the PCB from the stock cooler and disconnect all
cables connecting the stock cooler to the PCB.
Always remove the stock cooler slowly - it might be firmly
glued to the PCB with thermal pads.
You will need the following tool:
Phillips Head Screwdriver
STEP 1
STOCK COOLER BACKPLATE
OPTION 1
I/O BRACKET SCREW