Serial numbers on RTX Founders Edition graphics cards, including PC Gamer's very own, are fading and apparently it's causing a problem with RMA requests
If true, that could make for some expensive paperweights.
As the price of graphics cards continues to rise, maintaining confidence in a purchase's durability becomes crucial. This is particularly true for high-end models like the RTX 5090, which can cost over $5,000. Given this, it is essential that the Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) process goes smoothly for customers. However, recent reports suggest that the design of Nvidia's RTX Founders Edition (FE) graphics cards may create issues during the RMA process.
A Redditor by the name Willing-Avocado-4830 encountered trouble with Nvidia's RMA process for their RTX 5090 FE due to a faded serial number. They claim that their request was rejected. Although Nvidia's representative comments have since disappeared, the fading of the serial number itself seems to be a recurring issue. Other commenters also confirm that the serial number on their FE cards, including the RTX 5080 FE that PC Gamer tested, has also faded.
The faded serial number on the metal part of the I/O side of the card, near the case and motherboard, appears to be a common problem. The fading could be caused by consistent heat or frequent swapping between GPUs for testing purposes. Regardless of the cause, a faded serial number may pose a problem during the RMA process. Nvidia requires customers to prove the authenticity and warranty status of their product, and the serial number serves as crucial evidence.
Nvidia's warranty clearly states that it only applies to original purchases from retailers, mail order operations, or online stores. Acquiring a product second-hand will not be covered under warranty. This means that verifying the product's origin through the serial number is vital for Nvidia. However, it is unclear whether the RMA process explicitly requires the serial number. Additionally, laws regulating RMA procedures may differ across countries.
To avoid potential issues during the RMA process, it is recommended that customers with still-legible serial numbers on their RTX FE cards take a photo as a precautionary measure. However, it remains uncertain whether a faded serial number would meet Nvidia's requirements upon receiving the product for RMA.
Written by urgent.news from PC Gamer's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
