MSI Investigates Ryzen 7 9800X3D Burnout Issues
18 Nov 2024
Recent reports suggest AMD's Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPUs may be experiencing severe damage when paired with MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi motherboards. Two cases of "burnouts" have been highlighted, with both involving substantial damage to the CPU and socket.
MSI Statement on Ryzen 7 9800X3D Damage Incident
Recently, we received a user report indicating damage to an AMD Ryzen™ 7 9800X3D processor on an MSI MAG X870 TOMAHAWK WIFI motherboard. At MSI, we are fully committed to the quality of our products and have begun investigating this incident.
Additionally, we are working closely with AMD and are in contact with GamersNexus, which is independently investigating this incident. We will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses.
What Happened?
Both incidents reportedly involved short circuits that left burn marks on the CPU, socket pins, and motherboard. Photos from users also show damage around the edges of the CPU socket, suggesting possible misalignment during installation. This could have occurred due to user error or a manufacturing defect.
Possible Causes
The misalignment could stem from improper seating of the CPU or from defects in the AM5 sockets. One affected user, who has experience building PCs, noted unusual defects in the socket's guide mechanism, saying, “I’ve assembled hundreds or thousands of units, but this is the first time I’ve seen an issue like this.”
If manufacturing defects are to blame, other motherboards and CPU models might also be at risk. However, with only two reports so far, this doesn’t appear to be a widespread problem.
What’s Next?
MSI, along with AMD and independent investigators, is examining the issue. If defective sockets are found to be the cause, more reports may surface. For now, users of the Ryzen 7 9800X3D and MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi motherboard should exercise caution but need not panic. The problem seems limited, and no evidence suggests it’s specific to the 9800X3D.