Unveiling the Secrets: EVGA GTX 1080 FTW Hybrid Tear-Down

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Overview of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid
3. Comparison with Reference Design
4. Changes and Improvements in the 1080 FTW Hybrid
5. Analyzing the Cooling System
6. The Role of Thermal Pads and Copper Plates
7. Understanding the PCB and Components
8. Performance Results and Expectations
9. Swapping the Coolers: Corsair vs EVGA
10. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will be examining the EVGA 1080 Hybrid graphics card and exploring its unique features and characteristics. The EVGA 1080 Hybrid is an upgraded version of the reference design, known as the 1080 FTW hybrid, which offers improved performance and cooling capabilities. We will delve into the specifics of the cooling system, the role of thermal pads and copper plates, and the overall performance of the card. Additionally, we will compare the EVGA cooler with the Corsair Seahawk cooler to determine the potential benefits of swapping them. So, let's dive right in and explore all the fascinating aspects of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid graphics card.

Overview of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid

The EVGA 1080 Hybrid is a high-end graphics card that utilizes an FTW board and boasts some interesting characteristics. Unlike the reference design, the EVGA 1080 Hybrid comes equipped with a unique cooling system, which we will be analyzing in detail. With the goal of swapping the heatsinks between the EVGA and Corsair Seahawk units, we aim to thoroughly test and compare their thermal performance. Before getting into the specific details, let's take a moment to thank our sponsor, ibuypower, and acknowledge their new gaming PC, the Elements, which features a modified s3 40 with a tempered Glass side window, LEDs for underglow, and an enhanced cooling system.

Comparison with Reference Design

When we previously examined the 980 i hybrid and the 980 TI Seahawk, we found that the Seahawk outperformed the EVGA hybrid card. However, with this new generation, both Corsair and MSI have made significant changes to their coolers. The EVGA cooler, in particular, seems to have the potential for better performance than it is currently delivering. In the following sections, we will explore the different variables that could be affecting the cooling efficiency and performance of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid.

Changes and Improvements in the 1080 FTW Hybrid

One notable improvement in the 1080 FTW Hybrid is the flat surface of the cooler. By holding a laser against the cooler, we can see that it is perfectly flat, which enhances the GPU cooling capabilities. This flat surface reduces the dependence on thermal interface material (TIM) to make proper contact with the GPU, as was the case with previous models. Additionally, the EVGA 1080 Hybrid features a unique design, with a fan that pulls air away from the MOSFET components. The blades of the fan are inverted, which further contributes to efficient cooling. It is important to note that the 1080 FTW Hybrid also covers the VRAM modules, which is a new addition to this generation.

Analyzing the Cooling System

Now let's dive deeper into the cooling system of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid. Beneath the RGB LED plate, we find an axial fan and a heatsink designed to cool the MOSFET components. This design, along with the copper plates, allows for effective thermal dissipation from the VRAM. The copper plate, in contact with the thermal pads, creates a reliable and efficient heat transfer mechanism. This unique aspect sets the EVGA 1080 Hybrid apart from previous generations and contributes to its promising performance.

The Role of Thermal Pads and Copper Plates

The thermal pads play a crucial role in the cooling mechanism of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid. The VRAM modules make direct contact with the thermal pads, which are in turn in contact with the copper plates. This contact ensures effective heat dissipation from the VRAM and helps maintain optimal operating temperatures. The thermal paste, applied carefully to the GPU, provides a good thermal interface between the GPU and the copper plate. This efficient heat transfer mechanism greatly contributes to the overall cooling performance of the graphics card.

Understanding the PCB and Components

Taking a closer look at the PCB of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid, we can observe a well-engineered design. The GPU is an AGP 104-400 chip, specifically a 1080 variant. The PCB features VRAM modules, capacitors, inductors, and MOSFETs. The VRAM is composed of Micron GDDR5X chips, providing a total of 8 gigabytes of memory. numerous capacitors and inductors are Present on the PCB, indicating the power delivery and stability requirements of the graphics card. While the MOSFETs and other components require further analysis, we will discuss them in detail in a separate video.

Performance Results and Expectations

After analyzing the design, cooling system, and components, it's crucial to assess the performance of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid graphics card. While the improved cooling system and design changes hint at enhanced performance, we need to evaluate the actual results. By comparing the EVGA cooler with the Corsair Seahawk cooler, we aim to determine if swapping the coolers can improve the performance of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid. In the upcoming review, we will present detailed performance analysis and compare the results with our expectations.

Swapping the Coolers: Corsair vs EVGA

Now let's discuss the process of swapping the coolers between the Corsair Seahawk and EVGA 1080 Hybrid. While changing the coolers alone would be fairly straightforward, we decided to dismantle both units completely for a more comprehensive understanding of their designs. This endeavor will allow us to examine the PCBs, coolers, and overall construction of both graphics cards. By performing this swap, we hope to uncover the potential reasons behind the performance discrepancies observed with the EVGA 1080 Hybrid.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the EVGA 1080 Hybrid is an intriguing graphics card that offers improved cooling performance compared to the reference design. The unique combination of thermal pads, copper plates, and an axial fan with inverted blades sets it apart from previous generations. However, the actual performance results do not Align with our expectations, which prompts us to investigate further. We will test the Corsair and EVGA coolers and analyze their performance in an upcoming review. Stay tuned for the full analysis and verdict on the EVGA 1080 Hybrid.

Highlights

• The EVGA 1080 Hybrid is an upgraded version of the reference design, offering improved cooling capabilities.
• The cooling system of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid features a unique design with an axial fan and copper plates.
• Thermal pads play a crucial role in heat dissipation from the VRAM and contribute to optimal operating temperatures.
• The PCB of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid showcases a well-engineered design with high-quality components.
• Swapping the coolers between the EVGA and Corsair graphics cards will provide insights into their performance differences.

FAQ

Q: Can I swap the coolers between the EVGA 1080 Hybrid and the Corsair Seahawk? A: Yes, it is possible to swap the coolers between these two graphics cards.

Q: What is the difference between the EVGA 1080 Hybrid and the reference design? A: The EVGA 1080 Hybrid offers improved cooling performance compared to the reference design.

Q: How do the thermal pads contribute to the cooling of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid? A: The thermal pads ensure effective heat dissipation from the VRAM modules, aiding in maintaining optimal operating temperatures.

Q: What are the components present on the PCB of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid? A: The PCB features VRAM modules, capacitors, inductors, and MOSFETs, all vital for the proper functioning of the graphics card.

Q: Will swapping the coolers improve the performance of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid? A: Swapping the coolers with the Corsair Seahawk unit may potentially improve the cooling and performance of the EVGA 1080 Hybrid.