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AGP, 4x or 8x?

Discussion in 'PC Hardware' started by Hotaru, 2005/05/11.

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  1. 2005/05/11
    Hotaru

    Hotaru Well-Known Member Thread Starter

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    I am interested in building a new system for Windows so I can convert my K6 233 (possibly to become a K6-2 400) to a Linux system. If I get a motherboard with a 8x AGP slot, should I also get a 8x AGP card? For the cost difference, how much better would it perform compared to a 4x card? Either beats my current 8MB 2x, but I can get a used 64MB 4x cheap. If a new ??MB 8x is worth it, though, I am willing to get one.
     
    Hotaru,
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  2. 2005/05/12
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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    AGP 8x cards should work in 4x slots without any problem, but they will be limited to data transfer at 4x speeds. In practice you are unlikely to notice too much difference, especially on an older system where the processor (CPU) may prove to be the greater bottleneck to 3D gaming performance. For general use I very much doubt that you would see a difference.

    Most mobos these days are equipped with 8x slots or the newer PCI Express slots, some of which (SLI boards + specific Nvidia Graphics cards) enable two graphics cards to work in tandem for the ultimate in gaming experience :)

    I would settle for the s/h 4x card.
     
    PeteC,
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  4. 2005/05/12
    irdreed

    irdreed Inactive

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    One other thing to be aware of for AGP Cards, is the Voltage requirement. I believe there are some Motherboards where AGP Cards running at 3.3v are not supported and these boards will accept only AGP cards running at 1.5v.
    (I've got one)
    So be watchful of this.
     
    Last edited: 2005/05/12
    irdreed,
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  5. 2005/05/12
    Chiles4

    Chiles4 Inactive

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    If you're going to do a major upgrade, get a board that comes with an AGP 8X slot or a PCI-E slot. But that's not really the factor that should drive your purchase. Instead look for a good, modern mainboard and it will naturally have either an AGP 8X or PCI-E slot.

    As Irdreed mentioned, you may be forced to get a new video card. I remember trying to put a Kyro 2 (AGP 2x?) into a modern Soltek board with an AGP 8X slot and it was a no-go due to voltage differences. Luckily, the board indicated its displeasure with a little LED instead of catching on fire or some-such.

    Unless you're a hard-core gamer, the whole AGP 4x vs. 8x debate is just water under the bridge.
     
    Chiles4,
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