A recent test by the Bilibili channel has sparked concerns among PC enthusiasts regarding ASUS' Q-Release Slim mechanism. The channel rigorously tested the feature by plugging and unplugging a graphics card 60 times, closely observing any changes to the GPU's printed circuit board (PCB).
Observed Scratches and User Concerns
The testing revealed that the metal component embedded within the Q-Release Slim slot, specifically near the peg side, appears to cause scratches on the GPU PCB when removing or inserting the graphics card. While the golden pads on the surface, crucial for proper GPU function, remained undamaged, these cosmetic scratches have raised eyebrows among the community.
Community Response and Variability
The findings have led to significant discussion on Chinese online forums, with many users expressing their worries about the long-term effects of these scratches. A thread on the NGA forum ( NGA Forum Thread) shows mixed results. Some users with ASUS motherboards incorporating the Q-Release Slim have not experienced any issues, indicating a potential variance in manufacturing or usage scenarios.
Key Takeaways and Considerations
- The Bilibili channel identified that repeated use of ASUS Q-Release Slim can cause scratches on the GPU PCB near the locking mechanism.
- The core functionality of the graphics cards seems unaffected, as indicated by the undamaged golden pads.
- Not all users report the same scratching issues, so the degree of impact may vary.
- These findings emphasize the importance of carefully handling hardware components.
This situation underscores the importance of careful installation and removal of PC components, and further highlights how design choices can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. It remains to be seen how ASUS might respond to these concerns.
