what is sli?

[THESANTINI]

i can't discern what it is. thanks

 

[LTC8K6]

It uses 2 video cards linked together to do the graphics work instead of one, making things go a lot faster.

Actually, it can theoretically use more than 2, but for now it's just 2.

Crossfire is ATI's version, SLI is NVidia's.

 

[THESANTINI]

if i need dual graphics output, just for playing poker so it won't be high intensity should i simply use my old graphics card which has two outputs?

 

[ExpertNovice]

Probably.

The video cards are using 16 lanes for data. Inserting two SLI cards, adding the bridge to connect them, and (of course) changing the jumpers allows both cards to work as one.

Each card then uses 8 lanes. Thus, better performance with, primarily, games.

More video cards means more heat, more fans, more power.

A more qualified person my post on SLI but, given what you want it for, my explanation may suffice.

 

[LTC8K6]

Yep, you can use a dual out card. You can also use a cheap PCI card for a second monitor.