NVIDIA’s RTX 4090 graphics cards, while delivering impressive performance, also introduced a concern: the potential for overheating of the 12VHPWR and its successor, the 12V-2×6 connectors, which could lead to literal smoke from GPUs or power supplies. This issue has been a significant worry for PC enthusiasts. Fortunately, alternative connectors have emerged to mitigate this problem. Among them is Thermal Grizzly’s WireView, now updated with a new version called the WireView Pro II Wired. This iteration features a 12V-2×6 cable, making it ideal for installation in more confined spaces.
When investing in a high-end GPU like the RTX 4090 or an upcoming RTX 5090, users want assurance that their hardware will last for years without connector damage. In the best-case scenario, only the connector might be damaged and potentially replaceable, or it may continue to function (though continued use after burning is not recommended). In the worst-case scenario, a damaged connector can render the graphics card inoperable. To prevent such outcomes, specialized connectors designed to address these problems are necessary.
Thermal Grizzly WireView Pro II Wired: The New 40cm 12V-2×6 Cable Version for GPUs in Tight Spaces
Various alternative connector options are available, often offering improvements such as lower operating temperatures, like the ASUS ROG Equalizer, though it lacks intelligent load and power management. A more advanced option is the AMPINEL, which includes an alarm system for automatic PC shutdown in critical situations. Thermal Grizzly’s WireView and WireView Pro series are equipped with power consumption and temperature meters for continuous monitoring. These have seen several iterations, and the latest WireView Pro II Wired retains the original’s features while introducing a 40cm 12V-2×6 cable.
This cable feature differentiates it from the WireView II Pro and other models, which connected directly to the GPU with standard and inverted connector options. The wired version is particularly beneficial for PC cases with limited space or for specific GPU models like the Founders Edition.
The New WireView Costs $35 More and Features a TFT-IPS Display, Fan, Alarm, and Auto-Shutdown
The WireView Pro II Wired shares most of its specifications with the original version, offering monitoring of power consumption, temperature, and voltage. If any of these parameters exceed established safety thresholds, an alert will appear on its 320 x 170 pixel TFT-IPS display, accompanied by an audible alarm. For users who prefer not to rely on these alerts or want automated protection, an auto-shutdown feature is also available.
The housing of the WireView Pro II is constructed from CNC aluminum and includes a 30mm semi-passive fan. It is available for pre-order in white or black for $175. The standard WireView Pro II is priced at $140, meaning the wired version represents an additional $35 investment for the separate cable solution.
