Nvidia’s Founder Edition GPUs utilize the MLCCs, while many custom boards rely on the POSCAPs. Nvidia’s own specifications allow for either multilayer ceramic chip capacitors (MLCCs) or conductive polymer tantalum solid capacitors (POSCAPs) to be used.

Those who believe the issue may stem from faulty hardware have narrowed it down to the use of a specific capacitor that could be a factor in the crashes.

Nvidia has already released a driver update, though it’s not yet clear if it completely resolves the problem. But if it’s a software issue, then Nvidia, Microsoft, and its board partners could potentially release a software fix or driver update to rectify any lingering problems. The former will require more work to address, as additional testing - and a potential recall - will be needed. It’s unclear if the crashing issue is the result of faulty components or a driver-related issue. Right now, there are two possible theories on why crashing may occur. Is it hardware or software? A combination of capacitors on Nvidia’s Founders Edition card. Reportedly, users experiencing the crashing issue have abided by Nvidia’s recommendations of using a power supply unit (PSU) that’s rated at 750 watts or higher. The issue appears to be widespread, affecting not only Nvidia’s Founders Edition card, but also custom designs from partners, including the MSI GeForce RTX 3080 Ventus 3X OC, EVGA GeForce RTX 3080 XC3, Gigabyte GeForce RTX 3080 Gaming Trio X, Gigabyte GeForce 3080 Gaming OC, and Zotac GeForce RTX 3080 Trinity, according to German publication ComputerBase. Nvidia’s RTX 4090 Ti may be on the way, but do we really want it? Nvidia may have another monster GPU in the works, and the price could be outrageous

No one is buying the RTX 4080 - will Nvidia finally slash its insane price?

How to fix display driver crashing