Chinese Factories Push GPU Boundaries: From RTX 4090 Mods to Rumored 128GB RTX 5090

The Rise of Modified GPUs in China

In response to export controls limiting access to high-end AI GPUs, Chinese factories have begun modifying gaming graphics cards to meet the growing demand for AI-capable hardware. This underground market has led to the creation of unconventional GPU models with significantly increased VRAM capacities 1

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RTX 4090 Modifications: Doubling VRAM Capacity

Russian PC technician VIK-on has provided insights into how Chinese factories are transforming the GeForce RTX 4090 to double its memory capacity. The process involves:

1. Using a custom PCB designed for clamshell configuration
2. Extracting the AD102 silicon and GDDR6X memory chips from original cards
3. Installing components onto the new PCB
4. Uploading modified firmware to enable increased memory recognition 1

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Source: Tom's Hardware

The total cost for upgrading an RTX 4090 to 48GB is approximately $2,029, including the original card price. These modified cards sell for around $3,320 in China, representing a significant markup 1

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Rumored RTX 5090 with 128GB VRAM

As the demand for AI-capable GPUs continues to grow, rumors have emerged about even more ambitious modifications. A purported RTX 5090 with 128GB of VRAM has been reported, priced at approximately $13,200 2

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Source: Tom's Hardware

This modification raises questions about the technical feasibility:

1. The use of unreleased 32Gbit GDDR7 chips or a complex custom PCB design
2. Implementation of custom firmware and BIOS for proper memory recognition
3. Potential use of dual-sided PCB with 64GB on each side 2

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Related Stories

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Modified GPUs with doubled VRAM surface on eBay and Chinese markets as AI hobbyists chase memory

NVIDIA RTX 4090 with 96GB VRAM: A Potential Game-Changer for AI Workloads

Nvidia RTX 5090 Disappears From Shelves as AI Demand Pushes Prices Beyond $9,500

Market Impact and Concerns

The emergence of these modified GPUs has created both opportunities and challenges:

1. Meeting demand for high-VRAM GPUs in AI applications
2. Potential for scams in the secondhand market with hollowed-out GPUs
3. Pricing comparisons with official NVIDIA products (e.g., RTX PRO 6000 Blackwell)

While these modifications cater to the AI market, they raise concerns about warranty, reliability, and the potential for fraud in the GPU market 2

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Future Implications

As export controls continue to limit access to high-end AI GPUs in certain regions, the trend of modifying gaming cards for AI workloads is likely to persist. This situation highlights the growing importance of AI-capable hardware and the lengths to which some markets will go to obtain these resources 1

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