MSI Introduces RTX 5070 Ti With Hidden 16-Pin Connector Underneath Removable Backplate
One of the most persistent concerns in modern GPU design has been the burnt and melted 16-pin power connector issue, largely linked to improper cable bending near the connector. NVIDIA’s own specifications recommend leaving at least 35mm of clearance without bending the cable to ensure a proper fit, but many PC cases and GPU layouts don’t provide enough space to comply, resulting in connection instability and, in some cases, melted connectors.
Now, MSI may have devised an innovative solution for its upcoming GeForce RTX 5070 Ti graphics card. A new video by Japanese YouTuber @harucan5492 showcases a clever design where the 16-pin connector is hidden beneath a removable backplate, located deep inside the GPU heatsink rather than at the traditional PCB edge.
In this design, the connector sits roughly three inches inside the heatsink, accessible only after removing a small section of the backplate. Once the cable is securely plugged in, users can reattach the cover, resulting in a much cleaner aesthetic and, more importantly, full compliance with NVIDIA’s clearance recommendation.
This relocation ensures the power cable remains straight with no immediate bends near the connector, greatly reducing the risk of loose connections and overheating. By hiding the connector internally, MSI has effectively tackled one of the most frustrating safety and design issues plaguing modern high-end GPUs.
Aside from the safety improvements, the hidden connector also offers improved cable management, leaving the external view of the GPU cleaner once installed. With the backplate reattached, users get both aesthetic refinement and functional reliability, an approach that could inspire future GPU designs across the industry.
While this particular design has only been shown on the RTX 5070 Ti model, it raises the question of whether MSI (and other manufacturers) may adopt this connector placement in higher-end RTX 50-series cards to prevent further issues with melting adapters and cables.
What do you think of MSI’s hidden connector design—genuine innovation or an overcomplicated workaround?
