SLI or Crossfire

[ArchAngel777]

I just setup an X58 rig. I am considering going SLI if for no other reason than to say I did it. However, there are a few things which I need clarification on by an experienced "picky" user, such as myself.

1) I always use VSYNC + TB. Is this even possible with SLI? If so, does this introduce any serious problems? I heard reports that it was not even supported and yet other reports that is supported now, but that the input lag was terrible. Does anyone have a factual answer to this?

2) Does crossfire have any of these limitations? Please understand, I don't want to bring crossfire versus SLI into this thread. I just need to know the factual limitations of both.

A buddy of mine does run SLI and I did notice some graphical glitches on his system. But, nothing that was too serious. Still, perhaps something is not setup right? Although I can't imagine turning it on in the driver and putting on the sli bridge is all that difficult to screw up. But, maybe additional settings need be applied?

I have to RMA my GTX 280 (Keys, this is for you - I also tested my faulty card on my brand new system with all new parts and had the same exact problem) and since I will be out of a card for about 2-3 weeks (I should have signed up for the E.A.R program!!!) I was thinking of picking up another one now, then SLI when I get the RMA one back.

Thanks in advance to anyone who can shed some light on this.

 

[BFG10K]

Vsync/triple buffering will always be a crapshoot with multi-GPU, especially with AFR. To be honest, I?m not even sure how triple buffering would work in a multi-GPU setup with AFR. I guess it?s possible each GPU has a pair of framebuffers and the rendering rotates between those as required.

Rather than risking a massive failure, why not purchase/borrow some cheaper cards and see if everything works as expected? Maybe a pair of 9500 GTs or something? If worst comes to worse, you can always sell them for a minimal loss.

 

[Hauk]

X58 is a great platform for multi-gpu. OC'd i920?

Running SLI, the only issue I had was with a craptastic Asus 750i board, BSOD's with SLI but not single. Only graphical glitch was in The Witcher where street lamps were visible through buildings. Again, SLI and not single. That was fixed by changing AFR to method 2. Regarding CF, I've had great success with x38, x48, and x58 boards. SLI runs like a champ on x58. Clean installs, latest drivers, it all leads to a very stable x58 rig.

With current hardware, drivers, sound techniques, there should be no issues with vSync or triple buffering. Don't ask me how it works, I just know they can be enabled. GTX 280's in SLI are sweet on x58. You wouldn't regret it. Scaling is impressive. Same with 48xx for that matter.

I've used multi gpu, but now insist on multi gpu due mainly to x58. Go for it...

 

[ArchAngel777]

BFG & Hauk,

Appreciate the input.

I currently have the i7 clocked at 4Ghz. Not sure if I will keep it there or not, considering how much overkill it is. I only built a new machine because I needed to build my uncle one. So I will just give him (for free) my older parts. SLI has been interesting me lately... I might just have to spend some more time at my buddies house before I make a decision. Again, appreciate the input.