Re: Video Card Issue

[hisland808]

My computer has a BFG GeForce 8800GTS OC 640MB video card in it and I would like to add another 8800GTS to run SLI. Do I have to use the same video card as the one already in there or can I use a different one? I am having a difficult time finding the exact same one that is already in the computer. It might have been discontinued. What should I do?

[Atomic Rooster]

You only need to find another 8800GTS. As long as the GPU's match, you'll be good to go. It's best to have the same amounts of memory, but not absolutely necessary.

Here's some more info for you: SLI Zone - FAQ

[carl33p]

You should be fine as long as its a 8800GTS 640MB. If it isnt Overclocked, that is fine, but your BFG will underclock to the slower speed.

Make sure you have an SLI motherboard. And that your power supply can handle it.

[Atomic Rooster]

Can I mix and match graphics cards?
In order to provide optimal symmetric scaling, SLI technology requires the NVIDIA GPUs to match. For example, a GeForce 7800 GTX must be paired with another GeForce 7800 GTX. Likewise, a GeForce 6600 GT must be paired with another GeForce 6600 GT. However, using the latest Release 80 or later graphics drivers, NVIDIA GPUs sold by different manufacturers can be used together in an SLI configuration. For example, a GeForce 7800 GT from vendor ABC can be matched with a GeForce 7800 GT from vendor XYZ.

Can I mix and match graphics cards is one of them is overclocked by the manufacturer?
Yes. A GeForce 7800 GTX that is overclocked (for example BFG GeForce 7800 GTX OC) can be mixed with a standard clocked GeForce 7800 GTX.

Can I mix and match graphics cards with different sizes of memory?
While it is not recommended, NVIDIA does offer this flexibility using Coolbits. When purchasing a second graphics card, you should try to match the memory size so that you are ensured full value and performance from your purchase. For example, if your first card is a GeForce 6600 GT with 128MB of memory, you should purchase a second GeForce 6600 GT with 128MB of memory. However, using Coolbits (value set to 18), you can force both of the cards to use the lower of the two memory sizes and operate together in SLI mode. When dissimilar memory sizes are enabled to work together using Coolbits, the effective memory size for each card becomes the smaller of the two memory sizes.

[hisland808]

Thanks for all your help. Will BFG NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GTS EE OC 640MB PCIe works with my current video card?