The only issue I have with the Mintcell risers to date is that once in a while the USB cable itself is iffy - but they're standard cables and cheap/easy to replace when that happens.
How does one determine the USB cable is iffy? I've had a few problems with Mintcell risers where the rig would freeze/lose GPU connection while mining - I just assumed they were beyond repair and replaced them. What are the signs of bad USB cables?
Also, check this out... Mintcell risers I got last week:
This one I didn't even try to use
Swap the cable.
Trivial to troubleshoot if it's the cable that way.
Good call on that riser, it's OBVIOUSLY messed up.
Cap didn't get installed correctly and/or failed.
The other one I can't say for sure - but it kinda looks like C13 should be there, and not sure if the 2 resistors under the right end of the PCI-E bus connector are needed if you are powering for MOLEX or not (the other regulator "missing" parts are probably for +5VDC supply and not needed with a MOLEX since the PS supplies +5VDC on a MOLEX connector).
Is the bottom of it "bulged out" so that it CAN'T seat? If so, don't even THINK about trying it - it shorted out or something at some point and seems to be leaking as well.