In an unprecedented move, Sapphire has unveiled its RX 9070 XT Nitro+ graphics card featuring an innovative hidden 16-pin power connector design, marking a rare implementation of this connector type on an AMD GPU.
The standout feature of this new card is its unique power delivery system. Unlike traditional graphics cards with visible power cables, Sapphire has concealed the 16-pin connector beneath a magnetic backplate. The power cables are routed underneath the GPU, creating a clean, cable-free aesthetic that sets a new standard in graphics card design.
To address safety concerns regarding the 16-pin connector, Sapphire has incorporated protective fuses adjacent to the connection point. These fuses act as a failsafe, triggering before any potential connector damage occurs.
The RX 9070 XT Nitro+ stands as a premium offering in Sapphire's lineup, featuring a triple-fan, triple-slot design with a silver finish. The card boasts impressive specifications, including boost clock speeds up to 3,060 MHz and game clock speeds of 2,520 MHz.
Technical innovations extend to the card's construction, with a 16-phase power delivery system built on a high-grade copper PCB. The design includes a Cold Rolled Steel Frame for enhanced durability and an L-shaped support bracket to prevent GPU sag.
This implementation differs from competitors' approaches, such as Asus's BTF-series cards, which use proprietary bottom-mounted power connectors. While other RX 9070 series cards are expected to maintain traditional 8-pin power connectors, Sapphire's bold design choice could influence future GPU aesthetics and functionality.