AMD HD 3800 manual Chapter ATI CrossFireX, ATI CrossFireX Introduction

Page 15
Chapter 2

Chapter 2

ATI CrossFireX

ATI CrossFireX Introduction

ATI CrossFireX technology harnesses two or more GPUs (graphics processing units) to be used in a single computer to run a display, creating a high- performance gaming platform. Typically, setup involves 2 or more graphics cards, but with the appropriate motherboard, the technology can use a single card and the built-in GPU of the motherboard. ATI CrossFireX works with all 3D games and applications.

ATI CrossFireX is designed for optimal use on a single display; however, it is also possible for each GPU in an ATI CrossFireX configuration to individually drive their own monitors when ATI CrossFireX support is not enabled.

Note: The ATI Catalyst Control Center software contains a different

ATI CrossFireX user interface for each configuration type and automatically loads the appropriate one when a valid ATI CrossFireX configuration is detected in your system.

If ATI Catalyst™ A.I. is enabled in the ATI Catalyst Control Center software, the optimal rendering mode available for the application is automatically selected.

Installing ATI CrossFireX Graphics Cards

These instructions assume that a PCIe® graphics card has already been successfully installed in the secondary slot (slot one), and that the primary slot (slot zero) is empty.

Note: Consult your system builder or OEM to ensure that your system has an adequate power supply. A 550 watt or greater power supply is recommended.

For an up-to-date listing of ATI CrossFireX certified motherboards, see ati.amd.com/products/certification

1.Make sure the computer, monitor, and other peripheral devices are off.

2.Unplug the computer power cord and disconnect the monitor cable from the back panel of the computer.

Caution:

To avoid possible damage to the motherboard, wait approximately 20 seconds after unplugging the power cord before disconnecting a peripheral or removing a component from the motherboard.

3.Remove the computer cover.

If necessary, consult the computer manual for help removing the cover.

Image 15
Contents User Guide ATI Radeon HD 3800 SeriesProduct Notices Documentation UpdatesTrademarks DisclaimerImportant Safety Instructions Note to CATV system installer Reference ContentsInstallation ATI CrossFireX2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc Replacing an Existing Card Chapter InstallationInstallation Overview Record the Serial and Part NumbersUninstalling the Old Driver Windows XP Uninstalling the Old Driver Windows VistaInstallation Installing the Graphics Card Installing the ATI Catalyst Software Suite Configure the Display Optional Display ConfigurationFigure 1-2 ATI Radeon HD 3800 series Connections Display Adapters Optional AccessoriesATI Radeon HD 3800 series Connections d. Click Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitorDescription Table 1-1 Display Configurations ATI CrossFireX InactiveSupported Display Connections AdapterInstallation Installing ATI CrossFireX Graphics Cards Chapter ATI CrossFireXATI CrossFireX Introduction Figure 2-1 ATI CrossFireX Bridge Interconnect Protection Tag Enabling ATI CrossFireX Figure 2-2 ATI CrossFireX Installation4. If your system has more than two ATI CrossFireX-capable graphics cards, the Selecting a Slave GPU dialog appears where you must select the graphics card that will partner with the Master GPU ATI CrossFireX Requirements Chapter ReferenceSystem Requirements HardwareATI Catalyst Control Center Overview Using ATI Catalyst Control CenterTable 3-1 ATI Catalyst Control Center Access Routes Access RouteThe computer beeps and the boot process stops TroubleshootingAccessing ATI Catalyst Control Center Help Graphics Card Installation TroubleshootingDuring software installation on a PC with the ATI CrossFireX TroubleshootingThe computer does not boot up properly The computer boots up but there is no displayATI CrossFireX is Currently Unavailable ATI CrossFireX Disabled After Swapping/Moving CardsCard Reversal Recommended 3D Client is ActivePossible Solution HDTV/HDTV Adapter TroubleshootingTable 3-2 HDTV/HDTV Adapter Troubleshooting Tips ProblemAvailability ServiceAccess International Compliance InformationAdvanced Micro Devices, Inc FCC Compliance InformationIndustry Canada Compliance Statement CE Compliance InformationElectrical Safety Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment WEEE Directive ComplianceVCCI Class B ITE Compliance Information MIC Certification Information BSMI Certification InformationClass B Equipment Household purpose info/telecommunications equipment