Solved GTX 690 4GB + GTX580 3GB(PhysX)

[Buzzik]

Hello every one...

I have never done such configuration before but I know that it is possible to run two different GPUs: one for graphics and the other one is for PhysX. I got 690 and I still have my 580, so is it worth a try to see if performance in gaming will go higher(there are not so many games that support PhysX as far as I know)?

the other thing is that I have no clue how to install it correctly and what drivers do I need... is there going to be any conflict between the two different drivers? Also I have 850W PSU

 

[Solarstarshines]

Hello every one...

I have never done such configuration before but I know that it is possible to run two different GPUs: one for graphics and the other one is for PhysX. I got 690 and I still have my 580, so is it worth a try to see if performance in gaming will go higher?

the other thing is that I have no clue how to install it correctly and what drivers do I need... is there going to be any conflict between the two different drivers? Also I have 850W PSU

First off Your Psu can't handle both of those cards at the same time I might be wrong but a GTX690 is a dual gpu solution Gtx 580 takes alot of power to run and in SLI about the equivilent of the GTX690


PhysX can be used with the GTX580 but you need to up the Power supply or you will run into a slew of issues

now there should be others on here to tell you exactly how it should be set up i will do my best to find further information for you

 

[bobkn]

It'd be unusual to use a GTX580 as a dedicated PhysX engine while using a 690 as the graphics card. (On the other hand, the 690 itself isn't common.)

EVGA lists a 600W PSU with 38A at +12V as a requirement for their 690. Your HX850 is rated at 70A at +12V, so it may be adequate to run both a 690 and a 580. More margin would be recommended, though.

I've never used a dedicated PhysX card, but apparently all you need to do is install the nVidia drivers, and select the second card as the PhysX processor in the nVidia control panel.

A quick Google search suggests that it'd likely be a waste of time, because the amount of gain in offloading the PhysX work to a second card may be minimal.

Why not get a 1200W PSU, and SLI a second 690? (Sell the 580.) It's only money.

 

[smarteyeball]

so is it worth a try to see if performance in gaming will go higher?

It's worth a try. If only to satisfy your curiosity. But I wouldn't expect to see any huge improvements really.

But since you've already got the cards...

Your HX850 is rated at 70A at +12V, so it may be adequate to run both a 690 and a 580. More margin would be recommended, though.

Yep. Doable - but very close. Although the 580 wouldn't be pulling as much draw if it's only doing physx calculations.

apparently all you need to do is install the nVidia drivers, and select the second card as the PhysX processor in the nVidia control panel.

Correct. You don't need separate drivers.

 

[Buzzik]

Oh... I am not going to buy another PSU that's for sure... So 580 will probably go on sale...

 

[smarteyeball]

As a dedicated physx card, it wouldn't be using the same sort of power draw as it normally would - and it is a HX850W which is a quality unit.

Personally I'd test it first just for fun, but sell the 580 anyway.

I've got a 670 SLI setup which is around the 690 performance area anyway, and I've found the lack of a dedicated physx card does not hamper performance.