I try to keep them in the 70-80c range.

The GPU in question isnt spiking in heat, it dosnt get above 60c when at full load.

My other GPU is at a healthy 70-80c range ramping up RPMs on fans over that. I also used artic silver ceramic paste so there shouldnt be any shorting.

Is the power state affected by firmware at all? I was having a very strange issue with my laptop freezing when shutting down or coming out of sleep mode. But when i reflashed the same firmware it seemed to fix that. But then later after i took out the card to physically work it is when this madness started. Not that it means anything but ive worked with GPUs over my IT career and i was VERY careful with it, so im doubting i damaged it.. but it sure acts like i did.