Two Graphics cards (6950 + cheaper card)

[snake007uk]

Hi,

I currently have three LCD screens, which I run off two AMD cards (not in crossfire mode).

Basically I use my 6950 on my primary monitor (gaming etc..) and the Cheaper AMD card for running the other two monitors.

I came across a article (cant seem to find it now), that stated, considering my one card can run all three monitors easily, there is no benefit of the second card, as its only used for the connectors and all video data (2d etc..) is processed by primary card and passed through to the second card connectors.

The only reason I have this setup is because when I play games, I want the two other monitors to stay on so I can see my skype/chat/browser window etc... while playing, and also when I alt+tab out its very fast.

So if there is no benefit should I just connect everything the 6950?

Also my main reason for asking is, because, I have BF3 and it plays well only problem i get is random map will give me artifacts/issues and i have to reboot the system, I am on the latest 11.10 preview 3 drivers and so the only thing I can assume is that the other card is causing some sort of issue.

any advice/info would be appreciated.

System specs is as follows:
Intel i7 3Ghz
12GB mem
XFX AMD 6950 2GB + ATI 3470 (dual display port)

 

[Sasahara]

I use my 5870 on 3 screens with no issues.

You will have to use the DisplayPort output for one of the screens.
If none of your screens have a DisplayPort input you'll need an "active" DisplayPort to DVI dongle.

These dongles are priced around £15-20. Make sure it is an active version and the correct size Displayport for you card, as there are standard and mini size connections for displayports.

http://www.amd.com/us/products/technologies/amd-eyefinity-technology/how-to/Pages/faqs.aspx

 

[snake007uk]

Thanks for the info,

I was confident the 6950 could run the the 3 monitors, all my lcd's have display ports I have ordered, mini displayport to full size displayport adapter, however I was wondering if I would still be able to see the side screens when in game?

Or if there is still a benefit of having the second card for the side screens.

 

[Surveyor]

Thanks for the info,

I was confident the 6950 could run the the 3 monitors, all my lcd's have display ports I have ordered, mini displayport to full size displayport adapter, however I was wondering if I would still be able to see the side screens when in game?

Or if there is still a benefit of having the second card for the side screens.

You'll still be able to see the side monitors while gaming on the centre screen but a certain amount of GPU power/VRAM will be used to service those monitors. How much I've no idea.

It may be worth continuing to use the 2 cards as you are now.