Nvidia RTX 5090 PCB as a 3D Printed Coaster

Experience PC Innovation, One Sip at a Time

A Closer Look at the RTX 5090's Inner Workings

While the formidable capabilities and substantial price tag of Nvidia's RTX GeForce 5090 Founders Edition GPU often capture the most attention, true hardware aficionados are particularly drawn to its distinctive three-piece Printed Circuit Board (PCB) architecture. This innovative multi-layered design not only facilitates more efficient signal pathways but also, rather whimsically, provides a convenient flat surface.

Crafting a Tribute: The 3D Printed Coaster

It's certainly not advisable to disassemble your costly graphics card to repurpose its internal components as a drink holder. Instead, an ingenious solution comes from Printables user jq910, who has made available a 3D-printable replica: the RTX 5090 FE PCB Drink Coaster. Even for those who don't already own a 3D printer, acquiring one for this project is likely a more economical endeavor than tampering with a two-thousand-dollar piece of hardware.

Simplified Design for Practicality

The 3D printable files faithfully replicate the main elements of the PCB. However, jq910 intentionally excluded the power connector from the design. This decision was made to ensure compatibility with larger mugs and to allow for easier stacking of multiple coasters, resulting in a more streamlined and practical version of the original PCB, perfectly flat for beverage placement.

A Refreshing Approach to Hardware Admiration

In a market where eye-wateringly expensive GPUs are sometimes adorned with extravagant, even gaudy, gold platings, there's a certain appeal in a creator's decision to transform a high-performance card's essence into a simple, charming coaster. Jq910's rendition is arguably more aesthetically pleasing than Intel's own 3D printing attempt for its Panther Lake chip, showcasing a tasteful way to appreciate technological design.

Beyond the Coaster: GPU Insights

While the coaster provides a novel use for the 5090's design, those interested in the GPU's technical specifications can refer to Dave's comprehensive review of the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 FE, which remains a leading resource for high-end graphics card evaluation. However, the card isn't without its challenges. For instance, a recent teardown by the Northridge Fix YouTube channel revealed that the Founders Edition of the RTX 5090 is particularly difficult to repair, partly due to its compact PCB and a specific internal connector that cannot be easily replaced if damaged. For consumers seeking more budget-friendly options, alternatives such as the $350 AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT offer excellent value, while the $250 Intel Arc B570 caters to those with tighter financial constraints, proving that high performance doesn't always necessitate the highest price point.