Modder boosts RTX 4090 to 48GB VRAM

Unleash Unprecedented Power: The 48GB VRAM RTX 4090 Transformation!

Conquering VRAM Expansion: A Modder's Triumph Over Technical Barriers

Before delving into the details, it's essential to note that the accompanying video employs an AI-generated voiceover, which may result in frequent, perhaps less-than-ideal pronunciations of technical terms, such as \"RTX four-thousand-and-ninety.\" However, the content reveals a remarkable achievement: the successful modification of an RTX 4090 graphics card to an astounding 48 GB of VRAM. This process, which once seemed to require arcane knowledge or divine intervention, has been demonstrated to be surprisingly attainable.

Achieving the Impossible: Vik-on's Breakthrough in Memory Doubling

As showcased by the skilled enthusiast Vik-on, this feat, previously considered a mere technical exercise for many modders, has yielded a fully functional and genuinely usable GPU. Unlike past attempts that often resulted in unstable or non-operational cards, Vik-on's method successfully doubled the VRAM capacity of an RTX 4090 with what appears to be relative ease. A critical element enabling this breakthrough is a leaked Nvidia BIOS, which grants the modder the capability to enforce compatibility for various memory configurations and module quantities utilizing Ada-generation chips.

Beyond the Chip: Integrating New Memory Modules with Custom Hardware

Successfully integrating additional memory with the graphics chip represents only one facet of this complex endeavor. The newly added modules must also establish a physical connection with the core processor. Fortunately, specialized replacement PCBs and cooling systems, designed for this specific purpose, are reportedly being produced by manufacturers in China. These components facilitate the seamless physical integration required for the enhanced VRAM.

The Murky Waters of Component Sourcing and Trade Implications

The situation becomes somewhat intricate when considering the origins and implications of these specialized components. Vik-on suggests that these modified PCBs are already available, even in formats resembling future RTX 5090 cards, potentially to circumvent existing export regulations. Regardless of their broader context, Vik-on indicates that RTX 4090 versions of these custom PCBs can be paired with an existing MSI RTX 4090 Suprim chip and readily available GDDR6X memory modules, culminating in the creation of a truly formidable graphics card.

The True Cost of Power: Weighing the Investment in High-Performance Modifications

Indeed, undertaking such a modification requires a substantial investment in tools and expertise, including a heat gun, a precision soldering station, copious amounts of flux and dielectric grease, stencils, and, crucially, exceptional hand-eye coordination. While the initial impression might suggest a straightforward process, the reality demands considerable skill and access to specific components. Previous attempts at increasing VRAM on GPUs often met with limited success, with cards either failing to function or performing suboptimally. However, this particular GPU modification appears to have been remarkably successful, resulting in a fully operational and enhanced unit.

Practicality Versus Passion: When High-Capacity VRAM Makes Sense

From a financial standpoint, Vik-on's costs included approximately 180,000 rubles for the base card, 15,000 rubles for the custom PCB and cooler, and an estimated 24,000 rubles for the GDDR6X memory modules (though Vik-on utilized their own spare parts). Converting these figures to approximately $2,583 reveals that this custom 48GB RTX 4090 is considerably more expensive than many standard RTX 5090 models. While the technical achievement is impressive, its practical value for typical gamers may be limited. However, for niche applications such as cryptocurrency mining or intensive local large language model (LLM) research, the increased VRAM capacity could offer significant advantages. For most, though, this remains a fascinating technical demonstration best left to experienced specialists.