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Reference and Non reference Graphics cards

JoeFX69

JoeFX69

JoeFX69

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Joined
9 Sep 2009
Posts
298
Hi guys.

Trying to do some research regarding reference and non reference grahpics, but not having much luck. Does anyone know of a page or place that could help?

Thanks
 
just know that unless you get a card within the first ~3 months of it being out there's is quite a low chance of it being reference
 
It usually depends on how good the reference card is in terms of PCB layout and heatsink/cooling. If it's a great reference cooler and PCB, the card is unlikely to be modified by 3rd parties as it costs them money to do so. However, later on, 3rd parties often introduce new cooling solutions (e.g. single slot, passive) to differentiate their product more often than not and hopefully sell some additional units, though it depends on which card and whether there is a market for it.

For instance, I bought a passive Radeon 4350, which didn't exist at launch, but was quickly made as it became clear they were a great option for a HTPC, which needs to be quiet. Passive 8800GT cards for example didn't emerge for a long time after.

Actual times and numbers will just take some hard research, I don't think anyone has done this for you already, so have fun finding out what you need! Don't forget review websites are a good resource for additional information and insight over what the manufacturers claim.
 
Which card?

Yep nearly fell for this when buying my waterblock.. nearly bought reference design for a non-reference board. Chaps at OcUk brought this to my attention and my order was changed.
 
Thanks all. Just looking into it as I have just bought a HIS iCooler 4850 and was considering my future options regarding cooling/modding etc
 
with a 4850 as long you mean a cooler upgrade, anything that is just on the GPU (e.g. universal GPU blocks or air coolers, not full cover blocks) should work fine
 
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