RTX 5090 Gaming Graphics Cards Are Being Rebuilt for AI Servers in China

    A new video circulated in China on October 23 appears to show GeForce RTX 5090 graphics cards being modified on a large scale to operate in artificial intelligence (AI) servers. Large numbers of new graphics cards are being disassembled in factory-like workshops. This process is considered one reason why the gaming-focused model has become harder to find in stores.    Technicians remove the GB202 graphics processor and GDDR7 memory chips from the expensive cards. Versions released for regular buyers take up 3 or 4 slots in a computer case and blow hot air into the case. The removed components are transferred to another board designed for servers. The cooling system is replaced with a more compact, 2-slot blower-style unit. Because this unit exhausts hot air through the rear of the case, the cards can be installed more densely in server racks.    Alongside models from partner manufacturers, the video also shows GeForce RTX 5090 Founders Edition cards made by Nvidia. The modified cards are tested under heavy loads on open test benches to determine whether they operate reliably. Cards that pass inspection are repackaged. They are believed to be shipped to data centers and AI laboratories.    Such workshops are believed to operate in various regions of China and to be capable of modifying thousands of cards per day. Gray-market intermediaries are constantly searching for supplies of GeForce RTX 5090 cards to keep production lines running. Nvidia is also alleged to have discontinued production of this model. The company is also said to be directing GB202 chips toward more profitable professional cards such as the RTX Pro 6000 Blackwell.    As a result, supplies of the card in US stores are almost depleted. Prices for models made by partner companies start at $8,500 (approximately 14,450 manat). At some retailers, the price approaches $10,000 (approximately 17,000 manat). Consequently, choosing a prebuilt gaming PC equipped with a GeForce RTX 5090 can sometimes be less expensive than buying the card separately. These computers also come with a manufacturer's warranty.