Before You Begin, Enabling SLI Operation

SLI Bridge Connector

SLI Switch Module

1-6 Setup of an SLI (Scalable Link Interface) Configuration

The nVIDIA® nForce 650i SLI chipset offers blistering graphics performance with the ability to bridge two nVIDIA® SLI-ready PCI ExpressTM graphics cards! The SLI design takes advantage of the increased bandwidth of the PCI ExpressTM bus architecture, features hardware and software innovations within nVIDIA® GPU (graphics processing unit) and the nVIDIA® nForce 650i SLI chipset. Together, the nVIDIA® SLI technologies work seamlessly to allow two graphics cards to operate in parallel and share the work and deliver heart-pounding PC performance. This section introduces steps to configure an SLI system on the GA-N650SLI-DS4 motherboard.

Before You Begin--

I. Understanding the components:

The SLI bridge connector

The SLI bridge connector is used to bridge two SLI-capable graphics cards to enable SLI operation.

The SLI switch module

Normal Mode (default): In Normal Mode, the first PCIe x16 slot (PCIE_16_1) operates at up to x16, whereas the second PCIe x16 slot becomes unavailable.

SLI Mode: In SLI Mode, you may use the two PCIe x16 slots for the following functions:

1.SLI Configuration: Install two SLI-capable PCIe x16 graphics cards of the same model to enable SLI function.

2.Independent PCI x8 slots: Use the two PCIe x16 slots as two independent PCIe x8 slots.

Both of the PCIe x16 slots will be unavailable when the SLI switch module is removed from the motherboard.

II. Power Requirements:

Before installation, assure that the power supply you use is able to provide sufficient power to fully support an SLI configuration and other components in your system. We recommend a power supply that provides at least 20A 5V and 12V current and a minimum of 400W wattage. Note that the exact power requirements will depend on your overall system configurations.

III. Supported Operating Systems:

Only Windows XP operating system is currently supported by the nVIDIA® SLI technology.

Enabling SLI Operation

Setting the SLI switch module:

The SLI switch module is set to Normal Mode operation by factory default, so the first step is to take out the module from the socket, turn it around and insert it in the SLI Mode direction.

Step 1: Gently spread the retaining clips of the socket and the module will be released. Hold the module by the edges and lift it away from the socket.

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Hardware Installation

GA-N650SLI-DS4 specifications

The Intel GA-N650SLI-DS4 is a notable motherboard designed for gaming and high-performance computing enthusiasts. This ATX motherboard supports Intel processors and is built on the NVIDIA nForce 650i chipset, making it a solid choice for users looking to harness the power of dual graphics cards through SLI technology.

One of the standout features of the GA-N650SLI-DS4 is its support for NVIDIA's SLI technology, which allows users to connect two compatible NVIDIA graphics cards for enhanced gaming performance. This feature is particularly appealing to gamers who demand high frame rates and advanced graphical settings. With dual PCI Express x16 slots, users can easily install multiple GPUs and benefit from improved rendering and smoother gameplay.

Another significant aspect of this motherboard is its DDR2 memory support. The GA-N650SLI-DS4 can accommodate up to 8GB of DDR2 RAM, which provides ample memory for modern applications and multitasking. The board supports memory speeds ranging from 533 MHz to 800 MHz, ensuring that users can take advantage of the latest memory technology available at the time.

The layout of the GA-N650SLI-DS4 is thoughtfully designed, featuring an impressive array of connectivity options. It includes multiple SATA ports for connecting storage devices, supporting RAID configurations for data redundancy and performance. Additionally, the motherboard comes equipped with a variety of USB ports, including USB 2.0 and headers for front panel connections, allowing users to connect peripherals with ease.

In terms of audio, the board features integrated 8-channel HD audio, creating a rich sound experience for gaming and multimedia. The Realtek ALC888 audio codec ensures high fidelity sound, providing an immersive experience for gamers and media consumers alike.

The GA-N650SLI-DS4 also utilizes advanced cooling technologies to keep the system operating efficiently. With dedicated heatsinks for the chipset and power phases, users can enjoy improved thermal management, essential for maintaining performance during extended gaming sessions.

In summary, the Intel GA-N650SLI-DS4 is a well-rounded motherboard that caters to gamers and power users alike. Its support for dual GPUs, ample memory capacity, a variety of connectivity options, and robust audio capabilities make it a strong contender for anyone looking to build a high-performance system. As technology continues to evolve, the features of the GA-N650SLI-DS4 remain relevant, providing a solid foundation for an impressive gaming setup.