Gigabyte RTX 3070 Gaming OC Deshroud Guide

Deshrouding the Gigabyte 3070 Gaming OC requires you to disassemble the card and separate the heatsink from the PCB. The shroud can only be removed by accessing the screws from under the heatsink. Take your time with the process, and if you have any questions or need assistance along the way, feel free to reach out!

Step 1: Remove Screws from Backplate

Begin by removing the 8 screws on the backplate of the GPU. This will allow you to separate the heatsink from the PCB. Be careful when handling the card to prevent damage to the components.

Step 2: Separate the Heatsink from PCB

Carefully separate the heatsink from the PCB. Use the provided wax paper to protect the thermal pads from dust and debris (you can cut the paper into smaller pieces to cover individual components). This is the best time to connect any fan adapter cables, as they will be more difficult to access once the heatsink is reattached.

Step 3: Arrange the Brackets

On a flat surface, arrange the three brackets as shown in the image. Position them with the textured side facing up. The thinner bracket goes on the right side, and the slightly larger bracket on the left.

Step 4: Secure the Brackets

With the heatsink separated from the PCB, place it top-side down onto the arranged brackets. Align the mounting holes in the heatsink with the threaded inserts on the left and right brackets.

Secure the left and right brackets using the provided M2 screws. Since the heatsink doesn't have mounting holes in the center, place the middle retaining bar across the center bracket to secure it to the heatsink frame.

Ensure all connections are firm but be careful not to overtighten the screws, which could damage the threads.

Flip the card back over and verify that the arrangement looks like the following image:

Note: Newer versions of the center bracket have a gap designed for easier cable management. You can route fan cables through this bottom notch. Pay attention to the left and right brackets - the slightly larger one should be placed on the side with the larger heatsink section.

Step 5: Verify the Y-Splitter Cable

Important: If you have the included Y-splitter cable, make sure it is installed before reattaching the heatsink to the PCB/backplate. This will prevent clearance issues later.

Step 6: Reassemble the GPU

Carefully reattach the heatsink to the PCB and secure it with the backplate screws you removed in Step 1. Make sure all connections are secure.

Step 7: Install Fans and Organize Cables

Mount your fans (not included) using the provided M4 screws. Organize the cables neatly within the available space in the center bracket.

Note: I provide different bracket heights and matching screws for various fan thicknesses. The product listing asks you to include a note with your order specifying whether you're using thin or thick fans. If you find that the screws are too long or too short, please reach out for assistance.

Step 8: Attach the Center Cable Cover

Install the cable cover and inspect for any loose screws. Verify that all fan cables are correctly plugged in before proceeding.

Software Setup

If you are using MSI's Afterburner software, I find that the default fan curve offers optimal performance and noise levels when using a pair of Noctua NF-A12 fans.

1. Access the Settings menu in Afterburner (white arrow)
   
2. Click on the Fan tab, click Enable user defined software automatic fan control, select Default and then click Apply
   

Note about the Y-cable: You may notice that one of the pins in the male header of the Y adapter cable is "missing." This is by design. The missing pin ensures that only one fan reports its RPM signal to prevent conflicts when multiple fans are connected to the same header.

Please feel free to message me if you have any issues with the installation. There can occasionally be differences in mounting holes among different revisions of the same GPU model. If this is the case, please reach out and I will help you right away.