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A leaked video shared by HKEPC on X reportedly reveals a large-scale operation in a Chinese factory where consumer GeForce RTX 5090 graphics cards are being dismantled. The footage suggests that these high-end gaming GPUs are being repurposed for AI server usage rather than reaching the consumer retail market.
The conversion process involves removing the original three-fan cooling systems and heatsinks. Technicians then desolder the GPU and VRAM components to transplant them onto new PCBs equipped with dual-slot blower-style coolers. This modification allows the cards to fit into high-density AI server racks, which require efficient rear-exhaust cooling that standard gaming designs cannot provide.
Following the hardware modifications, the cards undergo rigorous performance and stability testing on specialized benchmarking rigs. Once verified, the units are prepared for delivery to clients. The scale of this operation, involving what appears to be hundreds or potentially thousands of units, may explain the current scarcity of RTX 5090 stock in regions like the US.
While reports of such grey market activities are not unprecedented, the scale of this specific facility is notable. With consumer availability limited and prices for the card reaching levels exceeding $8,000 through third-party sellers, the diversion of these GPUs toward AI infrastructure continues to impact the consumer hardware market throughout 2026.
