Is it possible that a current generation video card not be compatible with a motherboard that's a few generations older? I thought I'd be able to upgrade my video card as long as my BIOS is up-to-date. My BIOS is up-to-date, but Gigabyte hasn't released an update for a couple years. Is there a solution to this other than buying a new computer?
Hi,
The only prerequisite to using a newer cards is a pci-e slot to put it in and the additional power connections to power it :)
Helps if the existing power supply is at or above recommended wattage spec's of the card too.
With an 850 Watt PSU, power shouldn't be a problem.
Have you already tried the 970 and you are sure it doesn't work? There should be no issue as long as your PCIe slot is rev 2.0 or 3.0 compliant.
If you look in your motherboard manual you should find information something like this.
GIGABYTE - Motherboard - Socket 1155 - GA-Z68X-UD3H-B3 (rev. 1.0)
With the proper room in the case, power supply and connectors it should work.Code:
- 1 x PCI Express x16 slot, running at x16 (PCIEX16) * For optimum performance, if only one PCI Express graphics card is to be installed, be sure to install it in the PCIEX16 slot.
- 1 x PCI Express x16 slot, running at x8 (PCIEX8) * The PCIEX8 slot shares bandwidth with the PCIEX16 slot. When the PCIEX8 slot is populated with a PCI Express graphics card, the PCIEX16 slot will operate at up to x8 mode.
- 3 x PCI Express x1 slots (All PCI Express slots conform to PCI Express 2.0 standard.)
- 2 x PCI slots
Looking at the support download page, BIOS section and I'm wondering which one you have chosen?
There is a Beta version of the BIOS -> U1L, and if you have installed it then that might explain your issues.
Oh and if Layback Bear's answer is too cryptic for you, installing the GTX card in the PCI slot closest to the CPU will be for optimal performance.
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