x4 slot killing me

atomic7431 · 24 Nov 2011 at 19:28

i in such a quandry as some of you are aware, i have a mobo thats second pcie slot is only x4! and currently run a 5850 ocd to 899 core 1100 memory, i get around 40 to 50 fps in bf3 but i occasionally get 12fps which is obviously not playable, im one of these that when they find a game they like they want it to run at best quality settings and at playable frame rates ie 60fps (i know).

the option to crossfire is limited due to x4 slot, but cant change the mobo as theres not many about now for 1156 and its not worth buying another 1156 at this stage!

New high end cards seem weeks to months away with very little news as to actual pricing or performance.
i know so many face a similar issue but what do i really do i just cant decide, i as many am not made of money so need to get this right first time! as for what i have to spend its all dependant on just how much i need to alter/buy!

HELP!

Reaper 392 · 24 Nov 2011 at 20:00

i expect your dips to 12FPS are caused by a lack of VRAM. try reducing settings which hog the VRAM, such as the shadows

atomic7431 · 24 Nov 2011 at 20:04

is there a card that will run this without lowering settings? can i check the amount that is being used?

olivier renault · 24 Nov 2011 at 20:42

lower AA for starters. That's a killer in BF3.

bhavv · 24 Nov 2011 at 20:51

Buy tri sli 3Gb GTX 580 lightenings and a mobo that supports them

I hear thats what you need to run BF3 maxed out.

ThePengu1n · 24 Nov 2011 at 22:56

Lol

If you want to check out your vram usage, get MSI Afterburner ( I think you need the latest beta)

atomic7431 · 25 Nov 2011 at 08:33

ThePengu1n said:
Lol

If you want to check out your vram usage, get MSI Afterburner ( I think you need the latest beta)

got afterburner already not looked to see if it has memory useage will take a peak thanks.

So looking to the future is everyone saying not to change anything then ? just turn settings down? obviously triple sli is a very expensive route!

ThePengu1n · 25 Nov 2011 at 11:13

Wait on the gfx card, new cards should be here soon. Have you had a look at a second hand mobo? get your post count up and trawl the members market, might just get lucky.