How to Install Dual Video Cards (SLi or Crossfire)

Using a multi-GPU system can be an effective and inexpensive way to greatly increase the processing power for graphics on your computer system. The SLi system was brought back recently in 2004; previously it was used in 1998 but today the system has greatly changed. The Primary idea behind using multiple GPUs is that theoretically you can double the speed of your graphic processing system. In order to install more than one GPU you must first make sure your computer meets the requirements.

Make sure that your motherboard contains two PCI-Express x16 slots. Also, in order to improve the effectiveness of GPUs, a bridge connector is highly recommended. Lower to mid-range GPUs can manage without a bridge connector but it greatly increases the efficiency of the GPUs, especially with faster cards. Also in order to run multi-GPU systems both of your GPUs need to be identical. For example, if you want to run a multi-GPU system with two nVidia cards you would need two cards of the exact same model, e.g. two GeForce 7600 GT cards made by EVGA.

Once you are certain your computer can handle a multi-GPU setup, you are ready to install. Like with all changes or additions you make to your computer, be sure that you are grounded by either wearing a grounding bracelet or just touching something that is grounded while preforming the installation of your video cards Turn off all power to your computer, and unplug your power supply. Unplug your monitor and anything else hooked into your old video card. Open your case and locate your old video card. Be sure to detach it from whatever is holding it onto the motherboard (if there is anything). This is usually a screw, or plastic clips along with other devices to secure the card in place. Remove the card. Now place in both of your new video cards. Typically, the best way to insert a video card in to a PCI slot is the line up the connector on the video card with the PCI slot and then gently push it down straight into the slot. Make sure it is all the way into the slot, now repeat this for the other card. Finally, on the top of your video cards there should be a small gold connector; this is where the bridge connector is placed on both cards. Connect the bridge connector, secure your video cards in the manner that is required for your case/motherboard and close your case. Finally plug in your monitor and power supply, and fire up your new system. Be sure to install all drivers for your new video cards and set them up correctly to ensure your new system runs as fast as it can.