Cybenetics’ prototype ‘anti-melt’ cable offers proactive GPU protection

Cybenetics Labs has unveiled a prototype ‘anti-melt' cable designed to address the infamous reliability issues of the 12VHPWR/12V-2×6 standard. This integrates proactive monitoring directly into the cable itself, aiming to provide a fail-safe for enthusiasts who want to avoid any potential melting or burning risk associated with flagship cards like the RTX 5090.

According to ComputerBase, the prototype is a native 12V-2×6-to-12V-2×6 cable with a small, low-profile inline box. This box contains the monitoring electronics and a status LED, avoiding the added bulk of screens or fans that can cause compatibility issues with large air coolers or tight cases. Because it is a flexible cable, it fits almost all Founders Edition and custom AIB layouts without obstructing the shroud or requiring awkward mounting angles.

Image credit: ComputerBase

Technically, the cable operates as an active circuit breaker. It monitors current and temperatures at both the GPU and PSU ends. While it features a USB-C port, this is strictly for data logging and configuration. The safety features, including a high-pitched buzzer and an emergency power-cut function, are fully autonomous. Once thresholds are configured via the software, the USB can be disconnected, and the cable will maintain its protection profile independently.

The cable is designed to distinguish between harmless transient spikes and dangerous sustained thermal runaway. Moreover, it allows users to configure thresholds for settings such as “Over Current Trigger” (default 8-12 A) and “Over Temperature Trigger” (default 80-95°C). The cable also has a dual-stage warning that, when a limit is breached, activates the buzzer for 10 seconds (default but configurable). If the condition persists, the cable cuts power to the GPU. Lastly, when connected via USB, the software provides updates every 100 ms, allowing users to export thermal and current data to Excel for long-term stability testing.

Although it looks useful, actual availability is currently uncertain. Cybenetics has not yet secured a mass-market distribution partner. It has been stated that there is a desire to sell the cable “close to cost” to improve the safety of the PC ecosystem rather than for profit. Currently, the cable also requires a native 12V-2×6 output on the PSU side, though a dual 8-pin version for older power supplies could be technically feasible if the project reaches production.

Discuss on our Facebook page HERE.

KitGuru says: It is a sad indictment of modern hardware standards that we need a “smart cable” just to ensure our flagship graphics card doesn't catch fire. However, the Cybenetics solution is arguably the most elegant we've seen so far. We hope a production partner steps up soon.

Become a Patron!