Sorry for the ignorant SLI question. How do modern SLI GPUs on notebooks connect to one another?
Is it still a set of loop cables from the one to the other at the back of the graphics cards? Or do they connect to one another internally inside the notebook? Or neither?
I've been searching around a bit, but could not find a picture example, etc. If anyone knows, or has a link to some docs it would be great.
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visit nvidia official site at 'nvidia.com' and go to notebook SLI ...u ll find some pictures and info. ...even i was having same questions.
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From NVidia:
What is the function of the SLI connector?
The SLI connector is a proprietary link between GPUs that transmits synchronization, display, and pixel data. The SLI connector enables inter-GPU communication of up to 1GB/s, consuming no bandwidth over the PCI Express bus. The SLI connector is not used with some mainstream graphics cards. These graphics cards pass inter-GPU data through the PCI-Express bus, instead of through the SLI connector. For these mainstream GPUs, there is enough excess bandwidth across the PCI Express bus to effectively manage this additional communication. More powerful GPUs require the SLI connector to achieve optimal scaling results.
Where can I purchase an SLI connector?
The SLI connector is included with all NVIDIA SLI-Ready motherboards and with all SLI-Ready PCs. If your motherboard supports SLI technology and did not come with this connector, please contact the manufacturer of your motherboard or PC to obtain an SLI connector.
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Well I guess there is some kinda-of a connector, last I messed with SLI was in the 3dfx days.
So I wonder if you buy this connector separately, or if it comes with the card that you buy.
And if you bought a new notebook, with just one Go 7950 GTX card in it, if they give you a connector with it also. Since if you want to sell it, the guy buying it from you would want this connector too ... else why buy the card from you?
Keep in mind, I am just talking about notebooks GPUs here ... -
Ah, I got some more information, as I am in the process of buying a Clevo D901C from Xotic PC and opted only for one Go 7950 GTX, I was wondering about resell.
This is what I got back from them:
"... The cards no longer connect with a ribbon cable as the traditional desktop systems do. It is all set up internally on the motherboard, so if you add a second card it will automatically be set up for the system. I think you may need to change some settings in bios but that would be about the extent of it after adding the second card. You should have no problem selling it to some one in need of that card and they will have no problem with setting up a SLI with it."
They have been most helpful with my barrage of questions so far
Example of SLI GPU Connection
Discussion in 'Gaming (Software and Graphics Cards)' started by brutal, Oct 18, 2007.