THE P870KM1-G MULTI, SINGLE, G-SYNC, NVIDIA SURROUND & SCREEN ADAPTER TEST THREAD

THE P870KM1-G MULTI, SINGLE, G-SYNC, NVIDIA SURROUND & SCREEN ADAPTER TEST THREAD

(By Stress Tech. Version 1.3)

Introduction
Hello and welcome to the P870KM1-G external monitor/s test report. I though it be best to write down my test results, as I make my journey through multiple video adapters, MST hubs and alternative connection methods for the best multi display setup for my Clevo P870KM1-G laptop. (Warning! these tests or setups might not work on the P870DM3 series laptops, but I assume they should, as the layout of the chipset is very similar to the P870KM1 series. So please be cautious).

If you are ever get stuck with a problem with a certain adapter or a connection method, you can read through some of the tests on here, to see if you can rectify the problem.

If you looking for a certain setup before you go ahead and purchase any equipment, you can read the FAQ at end of this report. It will list what is the best single, dual, triple, and quad display setup that I think is best for the P870KM1 series laptop as of today.

If you have any suggestions about how to enable triple screen G-sync setup for the P870KM1-G, then please contribute to this thread by giving the community some details on how to do it please.

If you have tried another adapter, video splitter, MST hub or another way to connect a monitor then please add it to this thread.

Anyways, I hope this might come in handy for anyone looking for an external display solution for the P870KM1-G.

Main objectives of these tests
Trying different connection methods to achieve an external triple G-sync Nvidia surround monitor setup, using a P870KM1-G Clevo Laptop. If this is not achievable, then a triple screen Nvidia surround setup with the maximum achievable refresh rate for each monitor with as much monitors working with G-sync (or ULMB) enabled.

Equipment used for these tests
1x P870KM1 Clevo Laptop.

3x 27” Acer Predators XB271HU Abmiprz 1440P@165Hz max, TN, G-sync monitors,

1x 23” Samsung SyncMaster T23b551ew 1080P@60Hz max LED monitor. (HDMI 1.4, SVGA, SCART, component, & MHL)

1x StarTech.com mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s Part# MSTMDP122DP,

1x Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter,

1x StarTech.com ThunderBolt3 to dual DisplayPort adapter Part# TB32DP2,

1x Plugable Thunderbolt3 to dual HDMI adapter for windows,

1x StarTech.com HDMI 1.4 to DisplayPort 1.2 adapter-4K Part# HD2DP,

3x DisplayPort cables,

2x Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cables,

3x HDMI cables,

23x Triple packs of Jaffa cakes.

A detailed spec of the P870KM1-G laptop for these tests
Specs:
P870KM1-G (P870KM-KM1 in Clevo default BIOS),

17.3” LG 1080P 75Hz IPS (laptop) display/monitor,

1x HDMI 2.0 output, 2x mini DisplayPort 1.3 outputs (2x or 1x DDI optional), 2x USB-C/ThunderBolt3 ports (2x or 1x DDI optional with DisplayPort/s 1.3),

Intel Kaby Lake 7700K De-lid silicon lottery CPU, Grizzly Conductonaut, running on stock speed,

Z270 Chipset (Laptop) with Intel Optane Memory support, Fujipoly 17w/MK thermal pads,

2X Nvidia GTX 1080 8GB in SLI, Grizzly Kryonaut. (using Direct 12.0 runtime & 378.49 Nvidia Drivers),

Corsair vengeance 64GB 3000MHz DDR4 RAM (Running at 2666MHz default),

OS Boot using 3x Samsung Pro 960 2TB M.2 NVME SSD Drives on RAID-0,

2.5" inch 2TB Seagate FireCuda ST2000LX001 - hybrid hard drive,

2.5 inch Samsung 850 EVO 4TB solid state drive, Windows 10 Pro (genuine),

Monsters, Inc mouse matt.

A detailed spec of the Acer Predator monitor/s being used
Specs:
3x 27” 1440P Acer Predators XB271HUA monitors (A.K.A: XB271HU Abmiprz or XB271HU-A or XB271HUAbmiprz),

WQHD (2.5K) 2560X1440, TN, G-sync, 165Hz max, 1ms, DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4 (2560X1440@60Hz max), Nvidia ULMB, & Nvidia 3D Vision support

Completed single external G-sync or non-G-sync monitor Tests:
Test 1S
BIOS Settings:
No need to change anything in the BIOS.

Equipment used for this specific test:
1x Acer Predator XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitor,

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01



1x StarTech.com HDMI 1.4 to DisplayPort 1.2 adapter-4K Part# HD2DP

https://www.startech.com/uk/AV/Converters/Video/hdmi-displayport-converter-4k~HD2DP



1x DisplayPort cables

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-white-displayport-cable-075m-a77qg?cmpid=ppc%3Acables___connectors%3Apla%3Agoogle&gclid=CKf_oo3todQCFQ-3GwodLGIAzg

The test:
Plugged in the StarTech.com HDMI 1.4 to DisplayPort 1.2 adapter to the back of the P870KM1-G HDMI 2.0 port (and the adapters USB lead) and then attached a DisplayPort cable to the adapter and into the DisplayPort on the back of the 1x Acer Predator XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitor.

Results and conclusion:
A lot of blinking problems… I have tried restarting the laptop, unplugging then reattaching the Acer Predator XB271HU-A 1440P monitor back in and out, I have also tried unplugging the StarTech.com HDMI 1.4 to DisplayPort 1.2 adapters USB lead on or off or in a different port, I then ran out of methods and decided to give it “Jim’ll fix it” slap etc. Nothing changed! This setup only gave me a scabby 2560X1440@23Hz with a blinking screen. Sometimes the monitor would go to sleep. And (For the peeps that don’t know) for the record; G-sync does not work as it is still a HDMI signal.

The problem with this StarTech.com HDMI 1.4 to DisplayPort 1.2 adapter (I think), may have something to do with the adapter somehow blocking the HDCP 2.2 signal from getting to or from the monitor's DisplayPort 1.2 port or the P870KM1-G HDMI port being a HDMI 2.0 as the adapter is a HDMI 1.4. Either way, there was no success.

Test 2S
BIOS Settings:
1x or 2x DDI to mini DisplayPort’s and/or 1x but NOT 2x DDI to ThunderBolt3 (legacy) ports. Take your pick.
Equipment used for this specific test:
1x Acer Predator XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitor,

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01



1X Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-displayport-to-mini-displayport-15-m-cable-white-a19xb

The test:
Connect 1x Acer Predator XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitor to one of the P870KM1-G mini DisplayPort’s using a mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable.

Results and conclusion:
1x Acer Predator XB271HU-A working at 2560X1440P@165Hz max with G-sync enabled. Single display gaming on this monitor is awesome. Just make sure you have the 378.49-Notebook-win10-64bit-international-whql driver installed or the FPS will freeze or lockup while gaming. This only happens when you use an external G-sync display connected to the laptop.

Test 3S
BIOS Settings:
1x DDI to mini DisplayPort’s & 1x DDI to ThunderBolt3 (legacy) ports

Equipment used for this specific test:
1x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01



Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/usb-c-to-display-port-adapter-n57en



1x DisplayPort cable

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-white-displayport-cable-075m-a77qg?cmpid=ppc%3Acables___connectors%3Apla%3Agoogle&gclid=CKf_oo3todQCFQ-3GwodLGIAzg

The test:
Plugged in one Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitor to the Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter using a DisplayPort cable.

Results and conclusion:
Acer Predator XB271HU-A monitor working at 1440P@165Hz max, G-sync working. ULMB also works but with G-sync being disabled.

Make sure you have the latest ThunderBolt software installed just in case if there is a problem. But I did not have any.



Completed dual external monitor Tests (NVidia Surround not tested):
Test 1D
BIOS Settings:
1x DDI to mini DisplayPort’s & 1x DDI to ThunderBolt3 (legacy) ports.

Equipment used for this specific test:
2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors,

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01


1x StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP,

https://www.startech.com/uk/AV/Displayport-Converters/mini-displayport-mst-hub~MSTMDP122DP



2x DisplayPort cables,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-white-displayport-cable-075m-a77qg?cmpid=ppc%3Acables___connectors%3Apla%3Agoogle&gclid=CKf_oo3todQCFQ-3GwodLGIAzg

The test:
Plugged in both Acer Predators XB271HU-A monitors to the StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP using 2x DisplayPort cables.

Results and conclusion:
Both Acer Predators XB271HU-A monitors working at 1440P@85Hz max each. G-sync does not work though even with only one Acer Predator XB271HU-A monitor plugged in. ULMB feature on the Acer Predators XB271HU-A monitor’s menu is greyed out.

Remember if you have any problems with this device; there is a “scan” button on the StarTech MST hub. This acts as a reset button.

Test 2D
BIOS Settings:
2x DDI to ThunderBolt3 (legacy) ports, no DDI to mini DisplayPort’s.

Equipment used for this specific test:
2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01


2x DisplayPort cables

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-white-displayport-cable-075m-a77qg?cmpid=ppc%3Acables___connectors%3Apla%3Agoogle&gclid=CKf_oo3todQCFQ-3GwodLGIAzg



StarTech.com ThunderBolt3 to dual DisplayPort adapter part# TB32DP2

https://www.startech.com/uk/AV/Converters/Video/thunderbolt-3-to-dual-displayport~TB32DP2

The Test:
Plugged in 2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors to the StarTech.com ThunderBolt3 to dual DisplayPort adapter part# TB32DP2 using 2x DisplayPort cables.

Results and conclusion:
Both Acer Predator XB271HU-A monitors working at 1440P@165Hz max, G-sync working too on all screens. ULMB works on both Acer Predator XB271HU-A monitors when G-sync is disabled.



Test 3D
BIOS Settings:
2x DDI to ThunderBolt3 (legacy) ports, no DDI to mini DisplayPort’s.

Equipment used for this specific test:
2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors,

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01



2x HDMI cables,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-pro-hdmi-cable-075m-a21xc



Plugable Thunderbolt3 to dual HDMI adapter for windows,

http://plugable.com/products/tbt3-hdmi2x/

The Test:
Plugged in 2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors to the Plugable Thunderbolt3 to dual HDMI adapter using 2x HDMI cables.

Results and conclusion:
Both Acer Predator XB271HU-A monitors working at 1440P@60Hz max, G-sync not working as G-sync is incompatible via any HDMI connection. Take note; that the Acer Predator XB271HU-A monitors only have one HDMI 1.4 port.

The “Plugable Thunderbolt3 to dual HDMI adapter” got really hot on just half hour of use! so I left it on for a stress test, then just after an hour the adapter started smoking. I quickly unplugged it as I did not want to see the consequences of what was going to happen.


Test 4D
BIOS Settings:
1x DDI to mini DisplayPort’s & 1x DDI to ThunderBolt3 (legacy) ports.

Equipment used for this specific test:
2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors,

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01



2x DisplayPort cables,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-white-displayport-cable-075m-a77qg?cmpid=ppc%3Acables___connectors%3Apla%3Agoogle&gclid=CKf_oo3todQCFQ-3GwodLGIAzg



ThunderBolt3 to dual DisplayPort adapter part# TB32DP2,

https://www.startech.com/uk/AV/Converters/Video/thunderbolt-3-to-dual-displayport~TB32DP2

The Test:
Plugged in 2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors to the ThunderBolt3 to dual DisplayPort adapter part# TB32DP2 using 2x DisplayPort cables.

Results and conclusion:

Only one Acer Predator XB271HU-A monitor is working at 1440P@165Hz max, G-sync & ULMB (when G-sync is disabled) is also working on that particular monitor. But no signs of a signal to the 2nd Acer Predator XB271HU-A monitor! It seems that the 2x DDI to ThunderBolt3 ports option in the BIOS must be set to enabled for the adapter to work on both of the Acer Predator XB271HU-A monitors.



Test 5D
BIOS Settings:
2X DDI to mini DisplayPort’s with no DDI to ThunderBolt3 ports.

Equipment used for this specific test:

2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors,

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01



2X Mini DisplayPort’s to DisplayPort cables,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-displayport-to-mini-displayport-15-m-cable-white-a19xb

The test:
Plugged in both Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors to the P870KM1-G laptops 2x mini DisplayPort’s using 2x mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cables. No adapters were used.

Results and conclusion:

Both Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors fully working at 165Hz with G-sync enabled on both displays.







Completed triple external monitor tests (with Nvidia Surround):
Test 1T
BIOS Settings:
2X DDI to mini DisplayPort’s with no DDI to ThunderBolt3 ports.

Equipment used for this specific test:

3x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors,

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01



2X Mini DisplayPort’s to DisplayPort cables,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-displayport-to-mini-displayport-15-m-cable-white-a19xb



1x HDMI cable,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-pro-hdmi-cable-075m-a21xc

The test:
Plugged in 2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors to the P870KM1-G laptops 2x mini DisplayPort’s using 2x mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cables and plugged in the 3rd Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitor via P870KM1-G HDMI 2.0 port.

Results and conclusion:

Without Nvidia Surround: 2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors working at 165Hz with G-sync enabled and 1x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitor working at 60Hz with no G-sync. (G-sync display was not detected, as a HDMI connection does not support Nvidia G-sync) Take note: The Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors only support HDMI 1.4. But the P870KM1-G laptop has a HDMI 2.0 output.

When enabling Nvidia Surround with this method; all the monitors operated at the same refresh rate with G-sync disabled on all monitors. The Nvidia Surround program picks the lowest refresh rate of the maximum refresh rates that all the monitors can provide and then matches all the monitors to the slowest monitor/s max refresh rate. So, with this method; Nvidia Surround sets all Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors to 60Hz because the acer monitor only has a HDMI 1.4 port. This limits the refresh rate to 1440P@60Hz. For some reason CS: GO game had a lot of screen tearing on all 3x monitors when V-sync was disabled.

I then tried disabling G-sync through the Nvidia control panel and enabling V-Sync Triple Buffering (In-game) and then the game ran tear-free… But the input lag was horrid. It got to the point where I didn’t enjoy the game.

I think the outcome of this test would have been another story if the Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitor supported a HDMI 2.0 port.

The worst thing for this test was the input lag when I enabled Nvidia surround with CS: GO in-game V-sync triple buffering. This might be a driver issue or the games problem.

I did not fully test this Nvidia Surround setup, as it only gave me 1440P@60Hz with G-sync being disabled and I knew there was a better setup on achieving a higher refresh rate on all three monitors.

Test 2T
BIOS Settings:
2X DDI to mini DisplayPort’s with no DDI to ThunderBolt3 ports.

Equipment used for this specific test:

3x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors,

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01



2X Mini DisplayPort’s to DisplayPort cables,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-displayport-to-mini-displayport-15-m-cable-white-a19xb



1x DisplayPort cable,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-white-displayport-cable-075m-a77qg?cmpid=ppc%3Acables___connectors%3Apla%3Agoogle&gclid=CKf_oo3todQCFQ-3GwodLGIAzg



1x StarTech.com HDMI 1.4 to DisplayPort 1.2 adapter-4K Part# HD2DP

https://www.startech.com/uk/AV/Converters/Video/hdmi-displayport-converter-4k~HD2DP

The Test:
Plugged in 2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors to the P870KM1-G laptops 2x mini DisplayPort’s using 2x mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cables and then plugged in the 3rd Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitor to the StarTech.com HDMI 1.4 to DisplayPort 1.2 adapter-4K Part# HD2DP using a DisplayPort cable.

Results and conclusion:

All 3x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors were blinking in a repeatable pattern when Nvidia Surround was enabled. I have tried different methods of approach! I have tried restarting the laptop, resetting Nvidia Surround setup and program, unplugging then reattaching the Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors back in and out and in series (IE: one at a time etc), I have also tried unplugging the StarTech.com HDMI 1.4 to DisplayPort 1.2 adapters USB lead on or off or in a different port, I have pressed the “scan button” on the StarTech MST hub repeatedly! I then ran out of methods and decided to give it another “Jim’ll fix it” slap etc. Just nothing changed! The only time the StarTech.com HDMI 1.4 to DisplayPort 1.2 adapter tried to work; was when I only used one Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitor… But its only gave me a scabby 2560X1440@23Hz with more blinking while detecting no signal after 10 minutes, making that monitor go to sleep. And for the record; G-sync does not work as it is still a HDMI connection.

The problem with this StarTech.com HDMI 1.4 to DisplayPort 1.2 adapter (I think), may have something to do with the adapter somehow blocking the HDCP 2.2 signal from getting to or from the monitor's DisplayPort 1.2 port or the P870KM1-G HDMI port being a HDMI 2.0 as the adapter is a HDMI 1.4. Either way, there was no success.

Test 3T
BIOS Settings:
2X DDI to mini DisplayPort’s with no DDI to ThunderBolt3 ports.

Equipment used for this specific test:

3x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors,

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01



1X Mini DisplayPort’s to DisplayPort cable,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-displayport-to-mini-displayport-15-m-cable-white-a19xb



2x DisplayPort cables,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-white-displayport-cable-075m-a77qg?cmpid=ppc%3Acables___connectors%3Apla%3Agoogle&gclid=CKf_oo3todQCFQ-3GwodLGIAzg



1x StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP,

https://www.startech.com/uk/AV/Displayport-Converters/mini-displayport-mst-hub~MSTMDP122DP

The test:
While sending 2x DDI to both of the P870KM1-G laptops 1.3 mini DisplayPort’s, I tried connecting the StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP MST hub to one of the P870KM1-G 1.3 mini DisplayPort. Then connecting 2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors to the StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP MST hub using 2x DisplayPort cables. The 3rd centre monitor was then plugged in to the P870KM1-G laptops last 1.3 mini DisplayPort using 1x mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable.

Results and conclusion:
Similar results to “Test 7T”11

The setup worked okay with Nvidia Surround being disabled. I achieved 2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A monitors at 1440P@85Hz (no G-sync) and my 3rd centre (1x) Acer Predator XB271HU-A achieving 1440P@165Hz with G-sync enabled. Please note; that a G-sync signal cannot pass through any MST hubs as the Nvidia variable refresh rate signal cannot split in to two monitors that each have a different timing. (IE: different frames per second or refresh rates).

When I enabled Nvidia Surround… I then had problems! I had to change all of the monitors refresh rates to 85Hz and then I had to restart the laptop for the Nvidia Surround menu to re-appear again… And when it did appear, I tried enabling Nvidia Surround; I got more problems! The Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors were blinking and going through all the refresh rates the monitors can handle and it never settled to deliver a steady/static image on all 3x monitors. One time, all the screens went black and I had to do a hard shut down. I tried restarting the laptop, unplugging and reconnecting video cables, running the adapter with the USB power lead de-attached, changing refresh rates on one monitor or all the monitors from 24hz-85Hz and nothing happened. Nvidia Surround just doesn’t like it… Until! I then pressed the “scan” button that’s located on the StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” MST hub this woke up all of my monitors enabling Nvidia surround. Proper brain fog I had that day.

After enabling Nvidia Surround, I achieved (7680X1440@85Hz) 3x 1440P@85Hz max with G-sync disabled. Playing CS: GO without V-sync was really smooth. I was hitting 280FPS and averaging around 215FPS.

I decided to try this Nvidia Surround setup with G-sync enabled. All monitors worked great in Windows 10 pro until I launched a game (CS: GO). The centre monitor (which is G-sync capable and is connected directly to the laptop via a mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable) were flashing off and on while the other two (side) monitors that were connected to the StarTech MST hub were still displaying the game. I knew from this result that this was definitely a G-sync problem. So, I decided to install the latest Nvidia graphics card driver (384.76-Notebook-win10-64bit-international-whql) and it got a lot worst. The frames per second held around 1-3FPS even with only one monitor connected directly to the laptops mini DisplayPort (G-sync enabled). So, the latest driver did not help. I reverted back to the 378.49-Notebook-win10-64bit-international-whql driver, as this stops the G-sync low FPS drop stutter and freezing. Take note: this happens when you plug in an external G-sync monitor to the P870KM1-G laptop, this is why I ran all the tests with the 378.49-Notebook-win10-64bit-international-whql driver.

So, to the point! This setup is good for a Nvidia Surround gaming setup, as it does work but only at 3x monitors at (7680X1440@85Hz) 3x 1440P@85Hz with G-sync disabled. It is also good if you want 2x 1440P@85Hz and 1x 1440P@165hz setup for windows with Nvidia Surround disabled. Just remember to press that “scan” Button on the StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP MST hub if you have any screen detecting problems.

If you want G-sync on a single 1440P monitor while still keeping your Nvidia Surround settings on, then you need to change the in-game resolution to 2560X1440 while your still on Nvidia Surround mode. The two side screens that are connected to the StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP MST hub will go blank. So, you cannot use these 2x side monitors as accessories displays while Nvidia Surround is enabled and while you are gaming on one (Focus Display) centre Monitor set to 2560X1440P@85Hz G-sync enabled or disabled. When you change the in-game resolution to 2560X1440, you will need to quit the game and then enable G-sync at the Nvidia control panel before you can reboot and play the game at 2560X1440@85Hz with G-sync while still keeping you Nvidia Surround settings on.



Test 4T
BIOS Settings:
2X DDI to mini DisplayPort’s with no DDI to ThunderBolt3 ports.

Equipment used for this specific test:

3x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors,

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01


2X Mini DisplayPort’s to DisplayPort cables,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-displayport-to-mini-displayport-15-m-cable-white-a19xb


1x DisplayPort cable,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-white-displayport-cable-075m-a77qg?cmpid=ppc%3Acables___connectors%3Apla%3Agoogle&gclid=CKf_oo3todQCFQ-3GwodLGIAzg



Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/usb-c-to-display-port-adapter-n57en

The test:
Plugged 2x monitors to each of the P870KM1-G mini DisplayPort’s, using 2x mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cables. Then Plugged 1x monitor to the Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter using 1x DisplayPort cable.

Results and conclusion:
It is obvious that only 2x monitors came on (The monitors that were plugged into the laptops mini DisplayPort’s). The other (1x) monitor that was attached to the Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter showed no signs of life. This is due to no DDI to ThunderBolt3 port being switched on in the BIOS… A silly test! but it was worth a try as I thought the ThunderBolt3 port would snatch an extra DDI from the HDMI 2.0 port or from the laptops display connection, then the 2x mini DisplayPort’s and TunderBolt3 port would have a total of 3x DDI. If this would’ve worked, I would have had a triple display Nvidia Surround G-sync setup working. I did not wanted to try a Nvidia Surround on this test due to only two monitors working.

See “Test 1T” for a similar test but using the HDMI connection for Nvidia Surround, without the Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter attached.

Test 5T
BIOS Settings:
1x DDI to mini DisplayPort’s & 1x DDI to ThunderBolt3 (legacy) ports.

Equipment used for this specific test:

3x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors,

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01



2X Mini DisplayPort’s to DisplayPort cables,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-displayport-to-mini-displayport-15-m-cable-white-a19xb



1x DisplayPort cable,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-white-displayport-cable-075m-a77qg?cmpid=ppc%3Acables___connectors%3Apla%3Agoogle&gclid=CKf_oo3todQCFQ-3GwodLGIAzg


Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/usb-c-to-display-port-adapter-n57en

The test:
Similar to “Test 4T” but this time using 1x DDI to mini DisplayPort’s & 1x DDI to ThunderBolt3 (legacy) ports.

Plugged 2x monitors to each of the P870KM1-G mini DisplayPort’s, using 2x mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cables. Then Plugged 1x monitor to the Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter using 1x DisplayPort cable.

Results and conclusion:
Another obvious result! But this time only 1x monitor out of the 2x monitors that were plugged into the laptops mini DisplayPort’s came on, and now the 3rd monitor that were connected to the Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter came on. The two monitors that came on out of the three monitors that were used, both achieved 1440P@165Hz. Please see next test (Test 6T) for this setup but using the P870KM1-G laptops HDMI port and one laptop mini DisplayPort and the Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter.



Test 6T
BIOS Settings:
1x DDI to mini DisplayPort’s & 1x DDI to ThunderBolt3 (legacy) ports.

Equipment used for this specific test:

3x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors,

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01


1X Mini DisplayPort’s to DisplayPort cable,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-displayport-to-mini-displayport-15-m-cable-white-a19xb


1x DisplayPort cable,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-white-displayport-cable-075m-a77qg?cmpid=ppc%3Acables___connectors%3Apla%3Agoogle&gclid=CKf_oo3todQCFQ-3GwodLGIAzg



Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/usb-c-to-display-port-adapter-n57en


1x HDMI cable,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-pro-hdmi-cable-075m-a21xc

The test:
For this setup 1x monitor was plugged in to the laptops HDMI 2.0 port using a HDMI cable. Another (1x) monitor was plugged in to the P870KM1-G laptops mini DisplayPort using a mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable and the 3rd monitor was plugged into the Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter using a DisplayPort cable.

Results and conclusion:
2x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors working at 165Hz with G-sync enabled (with Nvidia surround off) and 1x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitor working at 60Hz with no G-sync, as HDMI does not support Nvidia G-sync and the Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors only support HDMI 1.4 this why it has a max refresh rate of 60Hz. Take note; that the P870KM1-G laptop has a HDMI 2.0 output.

When enabling Nvidia Surround with this method; all the monitors need to operate at the same refresh rate. The Nvidia program picks the lowest refresh rate that all the monitors can provide and then sets all the monitors to the same refresh rate. So, with this method; Nvidia Surround sets all Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors to 60Hz. Using this setup; G-sync gaming on Nvidia Surround does not work. But Nvidia Surround gaming without G-sync works okay, but it’s a but choppy as it only operates at 60Hz max.

Test 7T

BIOS Settings:

1x DDI to mini DisplayPort’s & 1x DDI to ThunderBolt3 (legacy) ports.

Equipment used for this specific test:

3x Acer Predators XB271HU-A 1440P G-sync monitors,

https://www.acer.com/ac/en/US/content/predator-model/UM.HX1AA.A01



3x DisplayPort cables,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-white-displayport-cable-075m-a77qg?cmpid=ppc%3Acables___connectors%3Apla%3Agoogle&gclid=CKf_oo3todQCFQ-3GwodLGIAzg


Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter,

http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/usb-c-to-display-port-adapter-n57en



1x StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP,

https://www.startech.com/uk/AV/Displayport-Converters/mini-displayport-mst-hub~MSTMDP122DP

The test:

1x Monitor (centre) plugged into the Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter using a DisplayPort cable. The other 2x monitors were plugged into the StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP MST hub by using 2x DisplayPort cables.

Results and conclusion:
Similar results to “Test 3T”

All 3x monitors work on Nvidia Surround at 1440P@85Hz each. The middle monitor that is connected to the Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter can be G-sync enabled only if Nvidia Surround is disabled. Enabling G-sync while Nvidia Surround is on; will only make the middle monitor display to flash or go black when starting a game (IE: CS: GO). Note: This is only when Nvidia Surround is enabled.

Playing CS: GO at 7680X1440@85Hz with V-sync enabled (Triple Buffering) and G-sync disabled. The game runs nearly screen tear-free but there is a big input lag. BIG! I don’t know why?? Maybe it had something to do with the drivers or game, but something was up.

This seems to be a good setup, as all the 3x monitors are at 1440P@85Hz and when a graphically demanding game is in use, (optional) you can be able to run just the centre (1x) monitor with Nvidia Surround off and G-sync enabled at 1440P@165Hz while leaving the 2x side monitors at 1440P@85Hz as accessories displays.

or

If you change the in-game resolution to 2560X1440 while still having Nvidia Surround mode on; the two side screens that are connected to the StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP MST hub will go black. So, you cannot use these 2x side monitors as accessories displays while Nvidia Surround is enabled while you are gaming on one (Focus Display) centre Monitor set to 2560X1440P@85Hz with or without G-sync enabled. If you want G-sync on this setup; you need to change the in-game resolution to 2560X1440, then you will need to quit the game and then enable G-sync at the Nvidia control panel before you can reboot and play the game with 2560X1440@85Hz G-sync while still keeping you Nvidia Surround settings enabled.

There were three problems though of trying to get this setup up and running. The first is you need to restart your computer with all the video cables connected to the monitors. Then you need to distribute the video bandwidth through the StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP MST hub. This can be done by changing the refresh rate (equally) of the 2x monitors plugged into the MST hub to 1440P@85Hz, and then also changing the centre (1x) monitor to 1440P@85Hz. After doing this you need to make sure the centre monitor that is plugged into Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter, to be your “Main Display” at the windows “Display Settings” and it is your “Focus Display” on the “Nvidia Control Panel” at “Set Up Multiple Displays” menu screen. If you cannot get the centre monitor to be your “Focus Display”; then you need to remove each display one by one and clicking on the apply button each time you remove one until you have the last screen remaining, which would be your centre monitor (the 1x monitor that’s connected to the Maplin USB-C to Display Port Adapter), then add the monitors back on again. You will notice that the centre screen icon will have to symbols on it. The * star symbol means it is set as your “Main Display” at the windows “Display Settings” and the green box (the 2nd symbol) means that the monitor is your “Focus Display”. After when this is complete; just restart the computer and then press the StarTech’s MST hub “Scan” button, then go to the “Nvidia Control Panel”, then “Set Up Multiple Displays” then click on “Surround Spanning Options” and then follow the Nvidia Surround procedure. If there is no “Surround Spanning Options” menu then repeat this process again. I had to restart Windows 10 three times before I got the “Surround Spanning Options” to appear. If there is ever a problem? Just press that “scan” button on the StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP MST hub.

Completed quad external monitor tests (with Nvidia Surround & 1x accessories display):
Test “3T” and “7T” all can work with a 4th monitor attached to the P870KM1-G HDMI 2.0 port as long as you have set Nvidia Surround before you connect your 4th (last) monitor in. If all for monitors do not have an image, then you may have to disable your laptops display through the “Windows 10 Display Settings). Take note: When four monitors are enabled; the P870KM1 Laptop screen switches off. Also, when you have set all the 4x displays (3x displays on Nvidia Surround & 1x display through the Windows 10 Display Settings); make sure all your monitors are switched on before powering the laptop so that the GPU knows how to divide the display bandwidths to each monitor. If you leave one display off while powering the laptop (after when you have configured quad display) you will need to re-configure the whole Nvidia Surround through the Nvidia control panel. If there is ever a screen problem, for an example: blank screen or flashing screen, then restart the computer with all of the monitors on and press the “scan” button on the 1x StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP.

Other things to know about this quad display setup is, that you cannot have these four monitors working in Nvidia Surround because there is 3x 1440P monitors and 1x 1080P monitor. The 1080P monitor is only a display for program accessories, for example: Hardware statistics, email notifications, web TV etc. I assume you need 4x 1440P monitors all running at the same refresh rate to have a quad Nvidia Surround setup. But this has NOT been tested yet on the P870KM1-G laptop. A quad Nvidia Surround setup, still needs to be tested on the P870KM1-G system.

Tests “1T”, “2T”, “4T”, “5T,” and “6T” cannot accept a fourth monitor to be connected.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ):
Q: What is the best 1440P triple monitor setup for the P870KM1 series laptop?

A: Tests “3T” and “7T” are the best for now until some company releases a 1.3 MST hub or a MST hub that can carry and divide a G-sync signal similar to the “Club3D SenseVision MST Hub CSV-5300” that can handle a FreeSync signal through the hub, powering an EyeInfinity multiple display setup.

I prefer the test “3T” out of both of the stated tests, as you only need to purchase 1x StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP.



Q: What is the best 1440P quad monitor setup for the P870KM1 series?

A: Tests “3T” and “7T” are the best for now until some company releases a 1.3 MST hub or a MST hub that can carry and divide a G-sync signal allowing the front three monitors to run on a higher refresh rate or fully (G-sync) variable refresh rate similar to the “Club3D SenseVision MST Hub CSV-5300” that can handle FreeSync working with EyeInfinity.

I prefer the test “3T” out of both of the stated tests, as you only need to purchase 1x StarTech.com “mini DisplayPort to dual DisplayPort’s” Part# MSTMDP122DP.



Q: Is there a “HDMI 2.0 to DisplayPort adapter” so test “2T” and test “1S” will work with a higher refresh rate?

A: No there is not. There will be a lot of demand for this product if it ever gets released though. Check link below:

http://insights.club-3d.com/thread/hdmi-2-0-to-displayport-1-2-2/



Q: Can one G-sync monitor work with another two non-G-sync monitors while using Nvidia Surround?

A: No, it does not work. Because Nvidia Surround acts as a one big stretched whole image (or game footage) and the game cannot be divided into three single images on each screen, each having their own different FPS. This is why you only get one FPS counter while gaming in a Nvidia Surround setup. If each screen had its own different FPS, there would be three FPS counter to look at while gaming in a triple screen setup. Have a look at a proper desktop triple G-sync monitor setup that has the refresh rate indicator on each screen, you will see that all of the refresh rate indicators have the same readings because they are all in sync with the Nvidia GPU.

And if anyone says that “one G-sync monitor can work together with another two non-G-sync monitors using Nvidia Surround” then they are talking wet! they really need to check their monitors on screen display (OSD) for the G-sync indicator to clarify that G-sync is really on.



Q: Will there be a G-sync enabled MST hub/adapter that allows a G-sync signal to be divided through the MST hub, allowing a triple or dual G-sync Nvidia Surround setup using only one of the P870KM1-G DisplayPort?

A: I don’t know. I hope so though. But I don’t think Nvidia will! As they like PC users to upgrade to their latest graphics cards that have three or more DisplayPort outputs. They want our money you see…

On the other hand, AMD have an EyeInfinity MST hub called the “Club3D SenseVision MST Hub CSV-5300” this was released 4 years ago. Nvidia only needs to make a driver for this device to be able to have a triple G-sync Nvidia Surround working through one DisplayPort… But hey! You should all know how Nvidia pigs roll…

https://www.eteknix.com/club3d-sensevision-multi-stream-transport-displayport-hub-review/



Q: Why did you use 2560X1440 monitors for these tests.

A: Because 1440P is getting a bit popular and it is the sweet spot for today’s gaming generation due to today’s limited processing power. Also, you can switch off two 1440P monitors out of all the three 1440P and use the centre 1440P monitor for gaming if a graphically demanding game needs to be played at a higher FPS.



Q: Why can’t you just shorten a sentence on the test making it look more presentable? For an example: “DisplayPort” can be written as “DP” and you can just mention the word “adapter” instead of stating its full model number.

A: I want google to index this report just in case there is any curious PC users looking for a certain answer on the internet. Also writing the reports in full length might stop any confusion. I hope this helps.



Q: How come you never did other tests like: StarTech.com ThunderBolt3 to dual DisplayPort adapter part# TB32DP2 and the P870KM1 HDMI connection for a triple screen Nvidia Surround setup?

Or a:

Plugable Thunderbolt3 to dual HDMI adapter and the P870KM1 HDMI 2.0 connection for a triple screen Nvidia Surround setup?

A: I’m really sorry. By looking at the test “2D”, “3D” and “4D” the outcome looked a bit obvious. Also, the Plugable Thunderbolt3 to dual HDMI adapter got burnt making me stop other tests with this adapter. I don’t want a house fire.



Q: How come you did not try Nvidia Surround on the “Completed dual external monitor Tests”?

A: Because I don’t believe in dual monitor gaming. Sorry.



Q: How come you never tested Nvidia ULMB?

A: Because I knew that ULMB would have worked if G-sync worked, as long as the monitor/s were over 85Hz refresh rate as ULMB only works on 85Hz, 100Hz and 120Hz refresh rate.



Q: What are Jaffa cakes?

A: A Jaffa cake is a delicious cake/biscuit-like structure consisting of a small soft genoise sponge with a luxury chocolate cap covering a veneer of orange jelly that's not too sweet and not too rich.

https://www.tesco.com/groceries/product/details/?id=254926253&sc_cmp=ppc*GHS+-+Grocery+-+New*PX+%7C+Shopping+GSC+%7C+Top+Offers*PRODUCT+GROUP254926253*&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIoZHa-Yvh1AIVAbftCh2ZCgvNEAQYASABEgK2R_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Final verdict
I was looking forward to this triple G-sync setup. I had hope before the test, thinking that one of the P870KM1-G mDP ports or ThunderBolt3 ports will divert (or snatch) the DDI belonging to either the HDMI 2.0 port or the laptops display, making a total of 3x DDI going to the mDP & ThunderBolt3 ports. It was worth the try though. If there is a mod or fix for this; then the P870KM1-G will be able to support triple G-sync display. I wonder if the BIOS can be modded to send 3x DDI to the mDP and TB3 ports.



As for the future; Clevo best dump the HDMI port and replace it for a DisplayPort 1.3 or 1.4, as a DisplayPort can be converted to a HDMI connection by using a cheap DisplayPort to HDMI 2.0 adapter. Users then will be able to have a G-sync triple screen setup.



And for Nvidia! they should make a MST hub that can separate a G-sync signal. Similar to the 4 year old (made in 2013) "Club3D SenseVision MST Hub CSV-5300" that can send a variable refresh rate signal through the hub to achieve a FreeSync EyeInfinity multi monitor setup. I'm sure Nvidia can come up with a driver for this MST hub.. surely.

https://www.eteknix.com/club3d-sensevision-multi-stream-transport-displayport-hub-review/



And for StarTech and Plugable:

A majority of PC users have one or more DisplayPort 1.3 ports. So please make a DP 1.3 MST HUB as there is none! This will have a bigger bandwidth for higher refresh rates. I'm stuck at 3X 2560x1440@85Hz Nvidia Surround (7680x1440@85Hz) “Test 3T” AAh ☹

If I have missed anything or if something needs correcting then please send me a message or leave me a comment. Kind regards

 

Nvidia surround stitches the panels together and treats it as one (so it's easier on the games) which is why reducing the resolution in this mode does no reveal any extra space.

 

Yes, this is another great way of explaining Nvidia Surround. Thank you.

 

Just a quick update about this triple G-sync problem:

I had hope before the test, thinking that one of the P870KM1-G mDP ports or ThunderBolt3 ports will divert (or snatch) the DDI belonging to either the HDMI 2.0 port or the laptops display, making a total of 3x DDI going to the mDP & ThunderBolt3 ports. It was worth the try though. If their is a mod or fix for this; then the P870KM1-G will be able to support triple G-sync display. I wonder if the BIOS can be modded to send 3x DDI to the mDP and TB3 ports.

As for the future; Clevo best dump the HDMI port and replace it for a DisplayPort 1.3 or 1.4, as a DisplayPort can be converted to a HDMI connection by using a cheap DisplayPort to HDMI 2.0 adapter. Users then will be able to have a G-sync triple screen setup.

And for Nvidia! they should make a MST hub that can separate a G-sync signal. Similar to the 4 year old "Club3D SenseVision MST Hub CSV-5300" that can achieve a FreeSync EyeInfinity setup. I'm sure Nvidia can come up with a driver for this MST hub.. surely.
https://www.eteknix.com/club3d-sensevision-multi-stream-transport-displayport-hub-review/

And for StartTech and Plugable:
A majority of PC users have one or more DisplayPort 1.3 ports. So please make a DP 1.3 MST HUB as there is none!. This will have a bigger bandwidth for higher refresh rates. I'm stuck at 3X 2560x1440@85Hz Nvidia Surround (7680x1440@85Hz) AAh

 

Here is the above report with some updated information in a PDF format.
Download and share.