PSAs: Discolored reminiscence chips are a standard signal that the graphics card is closely used, probably a earlier mining card. Recent proof means that some sellers are attempting to rip-off prospects by portray over the reminiscence. For these inspecting a used GPU, the paint comes off comparatively simply.
Two YouTube channels in Brazil have uncovered indicators that cryptocurrency miners are attempting to promote used graphics playing cards by passing them off as less-used ones. A shocking new technique is to masks indicators of wear and tear on GDDR reminiscence.
When the GPU is below heavy load for an prolonged time period, reminiscent of for mining cryptocurrencies, the warmth can flip the reminiscence chips yellow. Iskandar Souza (pictured under) and TecLab lately launched a video analyzing what seems to be paint on the cardboard. Scratch off the paint to disclose discoloration. Souza’s report compares the brand new GPUs to GPUs that faux to be worn out.
The previous few years have laid the groundwork for such initiatives within the graphics card market. Miners are attempting to dump GPUs from their rigs that misplaced profitability after final 12 months’s crypto winter and the Ethereum merger. Many playing cards are nonetheless struggling to succeed in their urged retail costs, though the discount in mining has boosted costs in current months.
In this surroundings, offers on used GPUs should still be engaging to many potential prospects. These patrons might need to keep away from playing cards from cryptocurrency mines which can be extra shabby than most.
As Souza’s video exhibits, heavy use and servicing can depart marks on different components of the GPU as properly. For instance, discoloration and scratches across the card’s CPU might point out that the vendor tried to resolder it. Missing screws might point out that somebody opened the graphics card to cowl up mining use.
Last 12 months, we reported on a video of a miner making an attempt to organize GPUs for resale by stress washing a row of GPUs—a extremely undesirable technique. Not solely can untreated water harm graphics card elements, however the pressure of a stress washer can, too.
However, all refurbished GPUs are good. Buyers should be cautious when shopping for from third-party sellers on main websites like Newegg and Amazon. Probably the most secure option to get refurbished is to purchase immediately from board companion shops like PNY and EVGA (pictured above).