A step-by-step video on reflowing the GPU of a defective Nvidia gaming graphics card using a semiprofessional Honton HT-R390 combined infrared hot-air BGA reworking station. The video presents the reflow process from start to finish. If you are interested in the tools which are used here, watch my related videos on the BGA and SMD rework as well.
In modern graphic cards the solder balls below the GPU chip often crack due to repeated heating-cooling cycles. Also, these gaming cards often use up to 200W of power, meaning lots of heat in a small are. In addition to the high power dissipation, the modern graphic cards are made using lead-free solder, which is not an eutectic alloy like the Pb37Sn63 lead containing alloy. Due to safety and environmental regulations, this lead containing solder is no longer in use by the industry. The new lead-free solder is not as stable and durable as the old lead-containing alloy, leading to higher rates of defects due to cracked solder joints.
One type of repair for such defective cards is called a reflow. During reflow, the GPU chip is being heated up according to a thermal profile taking the solder balls located below the GPU chip at the liquidous temperature, where the solder melts. To enhance the formation of new bonds between the cracked solder joints, flux is used. I personally find the Amtech NC-559 to be a great quality product for such purpose.
One might argue that a reflow is not a permanent repair, and mostly I agree. However, financially it is no longer viable to reball the GPU on graphic cards, because they lose their financial value very fast, and it is not worth the time and effort one puts in. Also, a good reflow might get the card running for several months or even until a year, after which the graphic cards need to be replaced anyway due to technological advances.
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