A question of AGP Compatibility

[conlan]

Looking to replace (finallly) our V5 5500 in our back-up rig. Found a great deal on a GF4 440MX. Problem is, our mobo (Asus CuBX) has 2X AGP. The GF4 440MX i found a good deal on is 8X. (I know they have 4X, but much more expensive) On the spec sheet it states:

AGP 8X with Fast Writes; backward compatible to AGP 4X

However for the Minimum system requirements it states:

AGP 2.0 or higher expansion port

Contradictory to say the least. Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[Peter]

Please use the search function to learn about AGP compatibility facts; the topic turns up every five seconds - no need to go through it that often, is there?

 

[conlan]

Actually i did use the search function before i posted. Plenty found on 1x/2x/4x VidCards on 8x Mobos, nothing on the opposite.

 

[Jeff7181]

I'm 90% sure it will work fine.

 

[Evdawg]

i would be 100% sure... your mobo is 2x.. card is 8x or 4x. It'll just be like underclocking it, imo. It wont fry it.. if it doesnt work return it.
I don't see any reason why it wouldnt work

 

[conlan]

Jeff7181, Evdawg...Thanks for the positive input.

 

[Peter]

You just need to reverse what has been said about old cards on new mainboards.

Your mainboard is restricted to 3.3V signalling - so your AGP card needs to be either 3.3V-only or universal. That can be seen from the key notches in its connector blade. If it matches the key tab in your board's AGP slot, it'll fit in, and it'll work. Else it won't even fit.

Besides, what's contradictory in saying the slot must conform to AGP 2.0 and support 4x or 8x mode? One is the specification revision, the other is a transfer speed.

 

[conlan]

Thanks Peter, i'll check that out