Upgrading RTX 3070 Memory Explained

Aug 22, 2024

Graphics Card Repairs: Upgrading the RTX 3070 from 8GB to 16GB

Introduction

  • Presenter: Fraser
  • Focus: Upgrading the RTX 3070 from 8GB to 16GB VRAM
  • Importance: Crucial for gamers due to evolving game demands for more video memory.

The Need for Upgrade

  • Current Limitations:
    • 8GB VRAM limit poses challenges for many gamers.
    • Issues include:
      • Stuttering
      • Lag
      • Crashes
    • Affected games include:
      • Cyberpunk 2077
      • Last of Us Part One
      • Flight Simulator
  • Industry Trends:
    • Higher resolutions (4K and beyond) and detailed textures are becoming standard.
    • 8GB VRAM is increasingly insufficient.

Technical Explanation

  • What is VRAM?
    • Short-term memory for GPUs, storing textures and images for rendering.
    • Increasing from 8GB to 16GB allows for smoother gameplay and better performance.
  • System RAM vs. VRAM:
    • If VRAM is maxed out, the GPU pulls from slower system RAM, leading to performance issues.

Upgrade Process Overview

  • Format: Two-part series.
    • Part 1: Hardware modifications to install new memory.
    • Part 2: Resolving post-upgrade issues and benchmarking.
  • Note: This guide is for experienced individuals only; risks involved with GPU repairs.

Hardware Modification Steps

  1. Dismantling the GPU:
    • Test subject: Zorch RTX 3070.
    • Goal: Replace 1GB memory modules with 2GB modules.
  2. Memory Replacement:
    • Current memory: 1GB Samsung modules.
    • Replacement: 2GB Samsung memory (14 Gbps).
  3. Preheating the Board:
    • Use hot air to facilitate the replacement process.
  4. Memory Test:
    • Run memory tests (MATS) to verify installation.
  5. Changing the Straps:
    • Straps communicate with the BIOS regarding memory configuration.
    • Binary code (1s and 0s) indicates memory presence and type.
  6. Reassembly:
    • Assemble GPU and check driver installation.
  7. Testing:
    • Use GPU-Z to verify the new memory capacity (16GB).

Issues Encountered

  • Black Screen Problem:
    • After stress testing (FurMark), black screen observed post-test.
  • Testing Solutions:
    • Assumed faulty memory; replaced with 16 Gbps memory modules.
    • Issues persisted during testing with Superposition and OCCT.
  • Potential Causes:
    • Power delivery issues; MOSFETs rated for 30 amps at 12 volts may be insufficient.

Conclusion

  • Next steps involve addressing black screen issue in Part 2.
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Thank you for watching! See you in the next video!