Warning: Overheating Video Cards

[Granyala]

I mean this is a lot of assuming;

2 regularly cleaned/maintained PCs run FFXIV fine at mid-low spec, install DT Update, video cards overheat at low-low spec.

Videocards don't overheat out of nothing, though what worries me is that you described a burnt smell.
That usually does not happen when a card dies to overheating (especially newer models that just clock themselves down).

You should assess the health power supply as well. It's possible that it was overtaxed, if it was a cheap one and doesn't have the proper protective circuitry.

Alternatively, limit the gpu's power level.

FPS cap is easier to implement for the average user and pretty much achieves the same result.
Provided you do not choose a resolution/FPS scenario that maxes out/overtaxes your card.

The thing people in these situations don't want to hear, is that there is simply no way for a properly cooled and well ventilated PC to overheat. Components are designed to run at 100% load for prolonged periods of time. The game is more taxing than it has ever been, yes but that is very much a user issue.

Technically: yes.
Practically: no.

I don't think monitoring the temperatures during full screen 3D applications is something the average user does. Also: repasting a card, while not difficult to do for the people so inclined is WELL beyond what is reasonable to expect of the average joe.

If a card turns non-functional because the manufacturer skimped on 2$ worth of heat transfer compound... that's not a user issue.

Yeah always cap it to monitors cap in the GPU's setting directly. Had certain cases (Crash 4 ) where the LOADING SCREEN of all things would tell the gpu to go full force netting me 400 fps 100% gpu usage and massive coil whine...

IIRC New Worlds from Amazon could actually REALLY fry GPUs due to no FPS limit in the menus. :'D

Did you monitor your GPU temperature before that including hot spot?
DT is demanding and sometimes can use 100% of 20 series GPU.

Not just 20 series. My 3080 is taxed 100% in 4K 60FPS and reaches Hot-Spot temperatures of 80°C on a custom loop setup.
Granted, it's summer and my room ambient is at 30°C as well but still.

FF-XIV now needs to be taken more seriously on the hardware front.

Except VRAM.... 4GB usage in Tuliyollal, lul.