The latest reports on the confrontation of manufacturers of motherboards and NVIDIA contained information about the visibility of the defeat of the DFI initiative, trying to supply motherboards based on the NForce 4 Ultra chipset with support for SLI mode and the corresponding connecting bridge complete. In addition, NVIDIA promised to protect himself from the hardware modifications of the NForce 4 Ultra chipset in future audits, and the notorious SLI bridge was not allowed to supply any pretext in addition to the configuration of motherboards based on the NForce 4 SLI chipset.

Of course, a separate string in terms of NVIDIA on the manufacturers of "Pseudo-SLI" was protected at the driver level. As soon as they found the scheme of the graphics slots, different from the "PCI Express X8 + PCI Express X8", the SLI mode was already not included.

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Of course, the sources close to the manufacturers of motherboards immediately stated that the drivers can "correct" if desired, and everything will work continue. The prospect of hunting behind the corrected drivers is unlikely to choose someone, but have a fresh ForceWare drivers, you want to have each system owner with SLI support. The fact is that SLI (AFR / SFR) modes are optimized from each new version Drivers, and the list of supported games is constantly growing. New drivers not only bring greater performance increase in SLI mode, but also expand compatibility with new games. From the permanent update of the drivers, do not go anywhere if you want to be in the forefront of the gamer movement.

Our Bulgarian colleagues from the HW Spirit website published a good FAQ on SLI technology, to familiarize themselves with whom it would not hurt all potential users. SLI modes are described, hardware requirements (including guidelines for power supplies), as well as some interesting nuances. To the last we want to attribute the description of the "violent" algorithm to enable SLI support through modification system registry. Actually, the drivers perform a similar operation, simply the user manages the registry keys through a visual interface. MANUAL intervention in the registry may be required in cases where the drivers refuse to include SLI support. By the way, the success of this venture is not guaranteed, because in such cases the user acts at its own risk.

Many experienced users of computers, and especially gamers sooner or later face technologies to improve the graphic capabilities of the device. In various manufacturing variations, it can be SLI or CrossFire, the difference is only in the manufacturer.

Often such ways to change graphic indicators are applied in stationary computers, but also the use of them in laptops is also not excluded. Next will be considered in detail each of the uses of such technology and the possibility of its disconnection, if necessary.

What is SLI and Crossfire

The entire process of consideration of the current problem should be started with the analysis of the overall concept of SLI and CrossFire technologies. They are the operating modes of personal computers that enable installation and operation in the device of several video cards simultaneously. To activate such a mode in a stationary computer, simply paste into motherboard Two video cards, but there are cases in which a graphic chipset is already built into the bulk card. Then you just need to add another one to it, using a special slot. Each of the possible ways to activate technology should be disassembled more, and then decide to disable the functions.

The concept of SLI

This technology was developed by NVIDIA campaign only for video cards of their production. It implies the simultaneous use of several video card resources, providing the user to combine them into one. In essence, the technology under consideration is a kind of adapter connecting several graphic adapters.

CROSSFIRE concept

This technology, in principle, is absolutely similar to the previous one, the difference is only in developers. Crossfire technology presented to the world AMD campaign representatives. Users of Buden are interesting information on the material benefit of this technology. After all, the purchase and bunch of two video adapters of this campaign will cost much cheaper than the purchase of several NVIDIA manufacturer video cards. In addition, a more expensive version of the ligament of graphic adapters is not able to be active on any motherboard. Although the process of deactivation of any variant of such a bridge will be the same. To begin with, consider the features of the work of technology.

Specificity Technology Connection

The main thing in the implementation of this process is the motherboard suitable for him. Not all models support such a function, so you must first get acquainted with the capabilities of the system. On the "motherboard" there should be appropriate marking, otherwise, even if there are several slots, the video cards will not work in a pair. The same system also refers to the installation of discrete and integrated adapters, there is an option of using only one of them.

It should also be noted that the technology provided by NVIDIA, makes it possible for combined work only for video cards issued on the same chips. That is, it can be two completely identical models or at least, representatives of one series. Other options for ligaments simply will not work. But when using video cards Radeon, the situation changes in the root. It does not matter here at all, in which configurations graphic adapters are made. Representatives of the R9 series, for example, working in a pair, give a computer with the ability to use the maximum from the games provided by the game. Many users increase the rigging frequency, achieving high indicators.

In addition, to use the SLI bridge, it is necessary to fix a special adapter. It can be supplied with a video card that supports this feature, or in a set with a graphic adapter itself. Without its installation, the technology will not work.

Erulting Opinions on Dual Graphics

Many newcomers, without silenting to the end in all the intricacies of increasing productivity, thus make hasty conclusions. For some reason, users believe that if you install a bridge with two identical video cards, the indicators will increase twice, and the same, respectively, with the rest of the combination. But in fact, the increase occurs only twenty-thirty percent and then repulscing from the indicators of the weaker adapter. Here is a bright example: if you install two video cards with a memory capacity of one eight gigabytes, and another two gigabytes, then ultimately the user will not receive more than two gigabytes at the output. A similar situation occurs with cards that have the same amount of memory. At the output, the indicator of only one of them will be obtained. The same feature concerns not only memory. For example, while simultaneously installing MSI and EVGA cards, the overall output frequency will be calculated by the smallest indicator. In general, it is not necessary to place high hopes for such technology.

Deactivation of technology

After a detailed consideration of the basic functions and capabilities of SLI and Crossfire, it is time to move directly to the question of the article. It is clear that the whole essence of the transition of these modes is reduced to the removal of one of the video cards. When working with a stationary computer, this will not make problems. You just need to remove one graphic adapter from the slot and the problem will be solved. This method can be called mechanical and at the same time the easiest, but the question remains open, if such a mode of operation is active on a laptop. Modern models of laptops are also able to install additional video adapters and, in particular, CrossFire technology. Thus, the mechanical recovery of the video card is not suitable here, you need to use another method. Next, consider the software options for solving the task.

Turning off technology via BIOS

This method is suitable for both options features. The basic input-output system is on any device and with its help you can solve a lot of problems. First you need to log in, it is done by pinching the button when the computer starts. What exactly depends on the version of the basic system, most often it is Del. After logging in, you must go to the menu before the Advanced tab, when using a discrete adapter, and opposite the graphics adapter to set the necessary settings. When using the same integrated system, you need to find the ONBOARD or INTEGRATED DEVICES tab and specify disabled or simply off, it all depends, again, from version. Of course, this option is not complicated, but if the user has a problem with understanding English, it may not be able to find the necessary parameters independently. In this case, you have to consider another method.

Device Manager

To solve the problem, you can use the standard tools of the installed operating system. Windows provides the user to customize independently using all installed devices via "Device Manager". You can find it using the "Control Panel" or "Administration". For advanced users, you can offer to introduce into command line Devmgmt.msc. After opening the desired window, it is necessary to find a section indicating the installed video cards. Now the adapter is simply selected, which you want to disable and click on it right-click the properties menu. It has a device shutdown button. Here, in fact, all. This method of disabling the SLI-CrossFire mode does not even require the subsequent restart of the system to activate new settings. In addition, you can execute this command directly from the context menu.

Deactivation through standard programs

With all the simplicity of the use of the above methods, the most secure is still the use of "native" programs that are installed on the computer along with the drivers for the graphics adapter. Also, such utilities can be entered into the system additionally. Such programs are as simple as possible to use and the user will not have to produce any additional actions to change the parameters. The use of such a method is more efficient, in particular, it eliminates the emergence of possible conflicts between the equipment.

Output

In general, all possible disabling options for SLI-CrossFire modes were discussed above. But after considering all the details of the work of such technology, the question becomes relevant: Does such a system need? There are many different opinions and in support of these modes and against them. The fact is that the special increase in productivity does not have to wait, besides, the occurrence of equipment conflict is possible. Simultaneous operation of several video cards too raises the temperature in the system unit, overheating it. The minus you can boldly name the overestimated power consumption when working such a regime, because two cards, if neither twist, "eat" more than one. In addition, not all games support this technology and may simply be run on the system with the presence of SLI-CrossFire.

Given the fact that the output indicators are equal in the worst video card, the best option will be the acquisition of one powerful, for the same money that two weaker were purchased. Thus, the performance of the system will definitely increase and unnecessary problems will not arise. Of course, in some cases, the use of bridges between multiple video cards is necessary. The main thing is to disable an extra video adapter on time to avoid overheating of the system and increased energy consumption. It is desirable to use specialized software while, although it can be used in other ways. What exactly today it was described in detail.

If you have a desire to combine two NVIDIA GeForce video cards to increase productivity in games and it turned out that there are two (or more) on the motherboard on the motherboard, but it does not support NVIDIA SLI technology, it is not necessary to immediately despair.

Thanks to the developer Ember Vulpix, we now have the ability to run GeForce video cards in SLI-mode on motherboards with only ATI / AMD Crossfirex support or without the official ability to combine video cards to increase productivity in 3D. Moreover, in SLI-tandem it turns out to combine two different video cards from NVIDIA (from one or close generations), such a functionality is not provided even on fees with official SLI support. In general, download the patch of DifferentSliauto 1.4 from Githab (or from our site), unpack and strictly follow detailed instructions From the file readme.md.

We test in combat conditions on the system from the "glands" from the "borders": take the old ECS P965T-A motherboard on the Intel P965 chipset with two PCI-EX16 connections (the second is functioning in X4 mode), in the specifications of which there are no references to support configurations SLI or CrossFirex, indicated only about the "unique ECS SDGE architecture (Scalable Dual Graphic Engines)", whatever it means. Add to Ne. intel processor Core 2 Duo E4500, dispersed to 2.93GHz and 6GB random access memory DDR2 PC6400. All this will spin operating system Windows 7 HP x64 SP1.

In the same "covers" :) Multiple video cards from NVIDIA

• GeForce 9800GT Green 512MB GDDR3 256BIT (Palit)
• GeForce 9800GT 1024MB GDDR3 256BIT (Galaxy)
• GeForce GT240 1024MB GDDR3 128BIT (Gigabyte)
• GeForce GT440 1024MB GDDR5 128BIT (PNY, Chip G108)
• GeForce GT630 2048MB GDDR3 128bit (Palit, Chip G108)
• GeForce GT630 1024MB GDDR3 64bit (Palit, Kepler Chip)
• GeForce GT730 2048MB GDDR3 64Bit (Palit, Kepler Chip)

For the first five video cards, a driver version 331.82 was used, for the last two - 364.51.

Without problems, 9800GT Green 512MB and 9800GT 1024MB, GT440 1024MB (G108) and GT630 2048MB (G108) and GT630 2048MB (G108) were also earned in the GT630 1024MB pair (KEPLER) and GT730 2048MB.

Unigine Tropics 1.3 and Unigine Heaven 4.0 benchmarks were launched to test the performance with the SLI activity driver activated in the driver's settings.

But 9800GT + GT240, GT240 + GT440 / GT630 and GT630 (G108) + GT630 (Kepler) refused to work - when trying to use SLI in the driver settings, the computer threw or thrown out in BSOD.

Another nuance - a video card with a smaller amount of memory must be installed in the main PCI-E connector. It is also worth remembering that only the overlapping volume of RAM on 3D accelerators will be used - at 1024MB and 2048MB on the maps available for games there will be only 1024MB.

dXPC.ru.

How to enable SLI smoothing

How to enable SLI smoothing mode:

Step 1. Open the NVIDIA control panel by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting the NVIDIA Control Panel

Step 2. Select "3D Installations"

Step 3. Select "3D Settings Management"

Step 4. Click on "Smoothing Settings" and select the mode you want.

Step 5. Click "Apply". SLI-smoothing mode is on!

Remember, when using one of the smoothing modes, the productive SLI mode will not be active. It is impossible to use both modes simultaneously.

www.nvidia.ru.

SLI mode of two GeForce GTX 260 video cards ... Setup, performance testing.

Introduction In view of the fact that NVIDIA allowed Intel on motherboards with the Intel X58 chipset to organize SLI mode, increased the popularity of video cards from this manufacturer. Let me remind you to resort to modification of drivers, in order to activate SLI mode on motherboards with Intel chipsets, which are quite popular lately.

In this review, I decided to present the level of performance achieved when installing two GeForce GTX 260 video cards. At the moment, this series is the most optimal choice for organizing the SLI mode.

Test participants.

Test participants are two XFX GeForce GTX 260 XXX video cards, which we have considered quite a long time and with a detailed review you can get acquainted on our portal. Here I think to remind the graphics card specifications: -GPU: GeForce GTX 260-Interface: PCI-Express X16 works ROPS / Shaders: 576/1242 MHz-Specifications of memory (physical (effective)): 1000 (2000) MHz - Tire Width Memory sharing: 448bit - SUPPLY OF UNIVERSAL PROCESSORS: 192 - Located texture processors: 80 (BLF / TLF) -Un) ROPS: 32-size: 270x100x33 mm (the last value is the maximum thickness of the video card). - Output sockets: 2xdvi (Dual-link / HDMI), TV-out.

Support multiprocessor work: SLI (Hardware), 3-way SLI

The "XXX" in the name of the video card means increased frequencies relative to the nominal and component: 1. The 640 MHz core frequency.

2. Memory frequency 2300 MHz.

The results of overclocking.

It was decided to overclock the video cards and evaluate the performance increase from acceleration when using two video cards. Data video cards agreed to work at a frequency: 1. On the kernel of 732 MHz. 2. By memory of 1233 MHz. 3. Thin block 1560 MHz.

It was decided to put the same stable frequencies for each video card, otherwise it increases the risk of friezes during the game.

Setting SLI mode.

The first thing on video cards find ports for SLI mode.

We open them and try more about the loops, so that after installation the video card does not "dig" there for a long time.

After assembling the system, install the drivers. Then, through the control panel, go to the settings of the video card driver and turn on the SLI mode, as shown on the screen. That's all - you can enjoy all the advantages of SLI mode.

Test configuration. 1. Core i7 920. 2. GA-X58-DQ6. 3. 2x2 GB Samsung DDR-800 ORIGINAL. The tests in which the system participated: 1. Crysis. 2. Call of Duty 4. 3. 3DMark 06.

Results Assessment: 1. As we see, this SLI version provides the highest performance. 2. Acceleration adds 20% performance gain.

2. Call of duty 4.

Rating Results: 1. In this game, the performance also turns out to be the highest. 2. Posterness of performance from overclocking decreased to 11%.

Rating Results: 1. In the synthetic test, dual-core video cards from AMD HD4850x2 and HD4870x2 are selected.

2. Posterness of performance from acceleration equals 16%.

Conclusion. Of course, SLI mode from two GeForce GTX260 video cards looks very tempting. But do not forget in testing, I used the video card with the factory overclocking and in order to achieve confident leadership, even they had to overclock the above frequencies. The cost of a set of two video cards is: 260 * 2 \u003d $ 520.

Given the value of the attention, you should not miss the two-type video cards from AMD, which show good results.

The article has prepared FireAID specifically for Mega Obzor.

megaobzor.com.

SLI, Windows 7

1. In multiprocessor video cards, such as GeForce 7950 GX2, 9800 GX2, GTX 295, each of the graphics processors has its own volume of video memory and it does not combine with the memory of another processor. Only half of the amount of 3D applications declared for the whole map are available - the second GPU memory duplicates the data for the SLI multiprocessor rendering. To a certain exception to the rule, some CUDA applications (OpenCL, DirectCompute) are able to use the video memory of each graphics processor to be disabled in the driver panel, regardless of the other memory, thus loading the full amount of memory on the video card.
2. In Windows Vista operating systems and newer changed the mechanism for determining the volume of video memory. Instead of the report / BIOS report, the video card operating system itself considers the volume of video memory when using the video card driver compatible with the WDDM architecture. Regardless of the volume of video memory on the video card, a certain amount of RAM is added to it by the formula:

   (RAM - 512) / 2, MB

   "Excessive" video memory is allocated from RAM only for time directly in it. All applications, including many systemic, the amount of memory on the video card recorded for the video card (for integrated / mobile solutions) and added by the formula above the RAM has been reported as a volume of video memory. To determine the amount of memory on the video card, the application must use new DirectX 10 calls (PERFORMANCE INFORMATION AND TOOLS) or direct access to equipment (RivaTuner). For applications using old versions DirectX, there are no programms to determine the physical volume of the video memory in this operating system.

3. In Windows Vista and 7 operating systems, the NVIDIA driver limits the applications reported through outdated DIRECTX interfaces total video memory in order to avoid errors of the processing of large values. When using video cards with a large volume of buffer (such as Quadro), this behavior may limit the volume of physical video memory available to applications. To disable this driver's behavior in the TAG Memory Tool utility, turn on the "Maximum Memory" option, however, some programs can stop working.
4. For integrated graphics processors and video cards with TURBO Cache technology with a local video memory technology, 64 MB and less driver always reports the maximum possible amount of memory based on the use of system memory. Definition of the actually established volume of video memory on a video card with Turbo Cache technology with a local video memory of 64 MB and less possibly only with low-level utilities, such as RivaTuner.
5. When determining the available volume of video memory through the DirectX calls, it is rather difficult to select local memory of the video card from the total volume along with AGP aperture or added using the TURBO CACHE technology of system memory. Similar errors for determining the volume of video memory are characteristic of most games.
6. Algorithm for defining the volume of video memory dialog Display of computer performance in Windows Vista and 7 is incorrectly working for video cards with non-standard video memory. Thus, GeForce 8800 GTS from 640 MB of video memory will be defined as having 512 MB of video memory, and 8800 GTS with 320 MB of video memory - as having 256 or 384 MB. This is a formal recognized error.
7. If you bought a video card with hands, then you could become a victim of scammers. A string with a memory displays the videoBios when the computer is turned on, can be easily formed by the editing of the BIOS, while the driver defines the true volume.
8. Cases were noted when such was observed with video cards that were physically (chips) declared volume. In addition to the cases of marriage in layout, a number of victims noted that with another version of the driver, the full volume was recognized. Presumably, the driver reinitializes the video card when loading the system, conducting a test memory test. Try to reduce the working frequencies of the video memory using RivaTuner or install additional cooling for the video card (radiators per chips). Try other driver versions. If you are able to update the BIOS video cards.
9. The insufficient level of the power supply can also lead to such a problem. This is especially true for cards based on GeForce 2 chips, GeForce 2 MX and GeForce 4 MX, in which the video memory is used with the supply voltage of the internal circuits + 3.3V. In many such cards, the memory is powered directly from the power lines in the AGP connector. If the power supply or stabilizer on the motherboard "Sewing" by + 3.3V, the memory can stop being determined.

Cuda, DirectX, GeForce 2, GeForce 2 MX, GeForce 4 MX, GeForce 7950 GX2, GeForce 8800 GTS, GeForce 9800 GX2, GeForce GTX 295, Rivatuner, SLI, Tag Memory Tool, Turbo Cache, VRAM, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Video Machine, Driver, Power Supplies

1. Check that the video card is firmly fixed in the tire slot and that the connector completely entered the slot. Check the video card connector and the motherboard tire slot on the lack of mechanical damage.
2. Attention should be paid to the number of PCI Express lines supported by the PCI EXPRESS chipset and on the configuration of PCIE X16 slots on a specific instance of the motherboard. First of all, most chipsets do not support a sufficient number of channels for the implementation of two, and even more than three-four full-fledged X16 slots. 16 lines (channels) of the tires are usually allocated only to the first slot, the other is given a smaller number (x8 or x4). Therefore, you should install a video card in the nearest to central processor Slot X16 tires. Or when installing the second video card, the lines are redistributed from the first tire slot to the second, and both begin to operate in X8 mode (this mode is characteristic of SLI configurations). A number of initial level chipsets, such as Intel 910 / 915GL, 945/946GZ and NVIDIA NForce 405/400, in principle, does not support a sufficient number of lines for PCI Express X16 slot, however, the manufacturers of motherboards on these chipsets sometimes have such a slot, it is physically implemented A small number of lines.
3. Another reason to reduce the width of the tire can be the erroneous inclusion in the BIOS Setup of the motherboard options controlling the number of lines (channels) in the tire slots. Such options usually have the form "PEG FORCE X1" or "PCI-E LANES". Contact your motherboard documentation for the value and disable such options.
4. In laptops, the PowerMizer technology as a measure to reduce the energy consumption of a video card can change the number of active PCI Express bus lines. For information about PowerMizer, refer to the Special FAQ issue.
5. One of possible causes The bus width reduction can be the PCI Express bus management system that appears in Windows Vista and Windows 7. In the Windows control panel, go to power control and edit additional settings The selected power plan, configuring the "Communication Power Management" option (Link State Management) on "Disabled" (OFF).

In general, the decrease in the number of lines to X8 has a slight effect on the performance of video cards, excluding two-processor solutions, but with a width of the X2 tires or x1, even the lowest price range cards work very slowly.

BIOS, INTEL, NFORCE 400, NFORCE 405, PCI Express, Powermizer, SLI, Windows 7, Windows Vista, laptops

1. If the game emergency is completed with the appearance " blue Screen"With an error in nv4_disp.dll, refresh the NVIDIA driver to the last official version. You should not forcing FSAA and AF from the driver or RivaTuner panel, turn on these functions only from the settings of the game itself. When using the video card based on GeForce 8x00 and newer, do not use full-screen smoothing level above 2x. If nothing helps, try setting the game to use OpenGL. To do this, either run the launcher.exe key with -OpenGL, or in the config.wtf file in the WTF subfolder of the game folder in the Set Gxapi line DIRECT3D Value Replace on OpenGL
2. In systems with video cards based on GeForce 4 MX, strong graphic distortions may be observed caused by poor work of the geometry block of this graphics processor. You can disable some acceleration functions by creating or changing in the config.wtf file with the set m2useshaders string with a value of 0. If this is not enough, you can force the game to do all geometric calculations programmatically. To do this, launch the launcher.exe application with -swtnl key. Forum participants report that such actions can also help in case of problems with video cards based on GeForce FX 5200 and GeForce 2. In systems with other video cards, try to configure the game to use OpenGL, as described above. You can also try to run the game in the window, To do this, launch the launcher.exe application with the key -Windowed key
3. Low performance in SLI systems may be due to problems with the game interface. Recommended in the game settings Disable vertical synchronization (V-SYNC), turn on the hardware acceleration of the mouse cursor and turn off the smoothing of the mouse moving (Smooth). Additional effect can be obtained by turning off the acceleration of the interface (panels and menu). To do this, in the config.wtf file, create or change the Set Uifaster string. Try the values \u200b\u200bof the row 2 or 0. In Windows Vista, the performance drops sharply when the game starts in the window.
4. If portraits of characters disappeared in SLI mode, refresh the NVIDIA driver to version 93.71 or more new.
5. Enabling the Glow effect in the game settings prevents the use of high degrees FSAA game.
6. Bad performance with modern versions of the NVIDIA driver is often caused by the enabled game interface scaling function. Try turning off the UI SCALE option in the game settings.
7. In the DirectX 11 system (Windows 7 or Vista with update and the video card based on the NVIDIA GTX 400 or a newer) and the Cataclysm is installed, you can enhance the FPS in the game on the DIRECT3D 11 render, for which the config.wtf file in the WTF subfolder of the game folders Row set GXAPI DIRECT3D Value Replace on D3D11

BSOD, DirectX, FPS, FSAA, GeForce 2, GeForce 4 MX, GeForce FX 5200, OpenGL, SLI, VSYNC, Windows 7, Windows Vista, World of Warcraft, Artifacts, Driver, Games, Smoothing

Not. SLI support is available in NVIDIA drivers for Windows XP, Vista, 7 operating systems (32- and 64-bit versions), 2003/2008 Server (32- and 64-bit versions, except ITANIUM platform), Linux with a kernel version 2.4.7 And above, Solaris X86. In other systems or when using drivers not from NVIDIA (NV, NOUVEAU, SNAP), the SLI bundle will work as two separate video cards.

Linux, MacOS, SLI, Windows 7, Windows 9X, Windows NT4, Windows Server, Windows Vista, Windows XP, Driver

nvworld.ru.

SLI mode and solving problems that are associated with this mode

Hello, today we will talk about NVIDIA video cards working in SLI mode, namely, their problems and ways to solve them, but first will understand what SLI mode is. NVIDIA SLI is a technology that allows you to use several video cards simultaneously and at the same time significantly increase system performance. One of the basic requirements is to use the same graphics processor on the video cards used. Below will be listed more detailed requirements for building a computer that will work with this technology.

1. Motherboard must have two or more connectors that support this technology;
2. A good power supply that can be powered by our system (SLI-READY blocks are recommended);
3. Video cards that support this technology;
4. Bridge that can be combined video cards;
5. The processor with high clock frequencywhich can reveal the potential of video cards so that there is no drop in frame frequency and performance in general.

The above it comes out that the construction of NVIDIA SLI is not something unattainable, but vice versa is practically no different from the assembly of a regular home computer.

Problems

Well, above the information was set out, why I need SLI, its advantages, and now go to the problems and their decision.

• The first problem is the dependence on the drivers, the driver must be updated very often because serious changes are made and optimized for specific games or applications;
• The second problem is that not all games / applications support this technology and in some games / applications need to force exactly the few of your video cards;
• The third problem of this technology in the same updates, since each time the driver update it is necessary to carry out some manipulations to work all video cards, and this is not every time convenient and not all owners of this technology are ready to "rummage" in the settings and deal with their problems.

Solution of problems:

1. The first problem is solved quite simple. Download the utility from the official site NVIDIA GeForce Experience, register to use this program, go to your account, and click the button "Check for updates". If there is a more recent driver, it will be downloaded, and you will be offered to install it.
2. The second problem is not always solved, because not all application manufacturers optimize their applications for this technology, but you can still try to correct the problems with the performance of some simple manipulations in the settings of the driver itself under your SLI system.

Below will be an example of configuring the game The Sims 2, which is not optimized by default under SLI mode.

Open "Panel control NVIDIA"- Manage 3D parameters - software settings and click on the" Add "button - specify the path to the file that runs our game - we look at the second section" Specify the settings for this program "- Rendering mode SLI, if there is" NVIDIA recommends (SLI) "I choose this item if not, we choose" perform an alternative framework 2 ".

We still need to configure the power management, and for this we go to the "Power Management Mode" and select the item "Preferred Mode of Maximum Performance".

The last item we will have the "CUDA-graphic processors" configuration in this setting should be highlighted with absolutely all your video cards you want to use in this application.

1. The third problem is solved quite simply, but it appears every time we updated the driver and you need a few clicks for it. Since we have not yet come out from the NVIDIA control panel, you need to click on the "Settings SLI, Surround, Physx" tab and click on "Update Parameters" then on the "Apply" button and this problem will be solved.

If you like to play computer games, you probably want your games to work as much as possible. One of the key features gaming computer - this is his video card; In the case of the manufacturer NVIDIA, you can connect together two, or even more, the same video cards to get a huge increase in performance. Follow our advice to learn how to do it.

Steps

Part 1

Installing cards

Make sure your operating system supports SLI technology. Two cards in SLI mode are supported. windows systems 7, Vista, 8, or Linux. Three and four cards in SLI mode are only supported in Windows Vista., 7 and 8, but not in Linux OS.

Check the installed equipment. SLI technology requires motherboard with multiple PCI-Express slots, as well as a power supply with a sufficient number of connectors. You will need a power supply that provides power at least 800 watts.

• Some cards allow parallel operation of four video cards in SLI mode. Most cards are made to work in two video cards mode.
• The more video cards, the more power it will be necessary.

1. Take the video card supporting SLI technology. Almost any modern NVIDIA cards support SLI configuration. To do this, you will need at least two identical card models with one number of video memory.

   • Cards do not have to be produced by one manufacturer, it is enough so that these are the same models with an equal amount of memory.
   • Cards do not have to have the same frequencies, but then you can observe a slight drop in performance.
   • To achieve the best results, use identical video cards.

2. Install video cards. Install the cards in two PCI-Express slots on your motherboard. Graphics cards are installed in slots in the usual way. Try not to damage the mounts, or do not install the cards at an irregular angle. Once cards are in place - secure them with special mounts, or screws.

   Install SLI Bridge. All cards supporting SLI mode are usually shipped with a special "SLI bridge. This connector is connected to the upper parts of the video cards, thus connecting them together. This allows cards to transmit data to each other directly.

   • The bridge is not necessarily installed to connect cards in SLI mode. Without bridge, the card will work together using PCI-Express slots on the motherboard. This type of connection will lead to reduced performance.

   Part 2

   Setting up SLI mode

   1. Turn on your computer. After installing video cards, close the computer housing and restart it. You do not need to make changes to settings until the system is fulfilled.

   2. Install drivers. Your operating system should automatically detect graphic cards and try to install suitable drivers for them. This process can take longer than the installation of video cards, because the drivers will be installed separately for each card.

      • If the installation has not started independently - download recent drivers From the NVIDIA website and run the installation files at the end of the download.

   3. Configure SLI. Once the drivers are installed - right-click on the desktop and select "NVIDIA Control Panel". A new window will open in which you can change the graphic settings. Find the menu item with the name "Configure SLI, PhysX".

      • Select "3D Maximum Performance" and select Apply.
      • The screen will blink several times while SLI settings are applied. You will be asked if you want to save new settings.
      • If there is no necessary function in the control panel, it means that your system, most likely, did not recognize one, or several of your cards. Open the Device Manager in the control panel and check whether all graphic adapters are present in the list of video adapters. If your video cards are not in the list - check the connection, as well as the installed drivers.

   4. Enable SLI technology. Select Change 3D image settings in the Left menu. IN common settings Scroll down the list until you find the SLI Performance Mode. Change the parameter with "one graphics processor" on "Alternative processing 2". Thus, you turn on the SLI mode for all your applications.

      • You can make separate settings for different video games by opening the application settings tab and selecting SLI Performance Mode.

AMD Radeon came the turn and NVIDIA company. Her GEFORCE graphics processors are not less popular among the players than the competitor's products. Both companies leg in foot step in the market, offering customers with solutions similar in terms of performance and price. Therefore, it would be unfair to devote the material to construct the CrossFire configuration, but bypass the similar capabilities of NVIDIA products.

A bit of history

The beginning of the SLI era can be considered 1998. Then the company 3DFX for the first time managed to implement the ability to combine several video cards to solve one task. However, the development of the AGP interface slowed down the development in this direction, since all motherboards of that time were equipped with only one slot for a video payment.

SLI from 3DFX - "Grandfather" of modern technology

After in 2001, 3DFX was purchased by NVIDIA, all the development in this direction expected its o'clock, which came only in 2004. It was then, in the 6000th GeForce series (the first video cards designed specifically for the newest PCI-Express interface at that time), the available developments were improved and implemented in mass consumption products.

SLI of two GeForce 6600GT

At first, two GeForce 6600 or 6800 video cards could be combined, with the yield of the 7000th series (in which the first full-fledged two-processor board from NVIDIA, 7900GX2) appeared the possibility of building a fourprocessor configuration (out of 2 cards), and later it became possible and a combination of 3 or 4 separate GP.

How to combine video cards in SLI: Requirements

As for Crossfire, it is not enough to buy two NVIDIA video cards to configure them in SLI. There are a number of computers that should be observed to ensure the normal functioning of the ligament.

What video cards can be combined into SLI

Connecting two SLI video cards"Perhaps only if the bridge is provided for this bridge on the board. By software tools to combine them, too, can be tried, but without the "dancing with a tambourine" in this case can not do. And it does not make sense to build a tandem of two GT610 or GT720. One card, the speed of which will be higher than that of a similar bundle, 2 or 3 times, will cost cheaper than a set of office cards and a compatible motherboard. That is, the absence of SLI-interface graphics accelerators at the younger representatives is not at all greed of the manufacturer. Nobody puts bridges, because it will make the card more expensive, but there will be no meaning from them. In this way,connecting two SL video cardsI is possible for models of the middle and top class. These include GP, the second digit of the names of which - 5 and higher (GTX55 0ti, gtx96 , GTX6. 7 0, GTX7. 8 0, etc.).

GeForce GT 720 has no bridge for SLI

Before how to connect SLI two video cardsYou should make sure that they are built on the same version of the graphics processor. For example, GeForce GTX650 and GTX650TI, despite the similarity of the names, operate on the basis of completely different GP and therefore they will not work in the tandem.

Is there practical benefit from SLI?

Before, how to combine video cards in SLI, It is advisable to familiarize yourself with the experience of using such configurations by other gamers and explore the specifications of their cards, as well as the characteristics of more productive solutions in the line. Often, in a plan of savings, no performance, the winnings does not give a double configuration. For example, two GTX950 in SLI demonstrate the results comparable to one GTX970. The difference in price (about 200 and 400 dollars, respectively) the cards themselves are justified, but if you consider additional costs for a powerful BP, a two-billboard motherboard, a high-quality and well ventilated case - it looks doubtful.

A completely different situation if - component of the upgrade procedure of an existing PC, purchased a couple of years ago. The GTX650TI or GTX750 level card can still be found on sale at a reasonable price (the difference with new models is about equivalent to differences in speed), and the technical progress for 3 years has not been presented with anything revolutionary for video cards (except HBM memory presented by AMD, but NVIDIA is So far does not concern). Therefore, adding another graphics processor is a completely rational step for such players.

SLI: Connecting video cards

If the computer meets the requirements for creating a SLI configuration, a suitable second video card is purchased - you can go to the assembly. After turning off the PC, you should remove the lid system Block, Set the second fee to the appropriate slot, connect an additional power cable to it (if necessary) and connect two cards with a bridge that comes in the kit. Hardwareconnecting two video cards in SLI This is completed and you can go to the program configuration.

Power cables connected to SLI bundle

Connecting two SLI video cards in Windows

In order for the bunch of two GP to function normally - you need to install a version of Vista or 14 (7, 8, 8.1 or 10) on Windows PC. It is also recommended to download the latest version of the video card from the NVIDIA website. After that, you can go to the setting.

After applying the settings, the bunch is ready to work. It is possible that for correct configuration of the SLI operation in some games you will have to set them special parameters to the "Software Settings" submenu. But, as a rule, most of the modern software does not need it.