SLI Setup

The installation process for SLI is not all too different from a single graphics card but as mentioned, there are a couple extra steps.

This is PCIe lane changing mechanism. The SLI side needs to be inserted into the slot to enable the second PCIe graphics slot. I do not know if this is consistent across all boards, but the side that is inserted into the connector is the side that is enabled.

Insert the two graphics into each slot. Hook up the extra power connectors as necessary. Be sure to keep the two cards on separate external power rails so that there is not a huge draw on a single rail.

This bridge piece goes over the MIO connector of each card. The reason why this piece is included with the motherboard instead of the graphics card is that the physical SLI specification allows for variance in the distance between the two cards so it makes a lot more sense for the mainboard manufacturer who decides on the spacing to include the piece themselves. Note that there is a label on the bridge piece for SLI_1 and SLI_2. Each end is NOT identical so it is probably a good idea to insert it the right way.

The traces run to different pins on each side of the MIO connector

The new 66.93 drivers from NVIDIA include support for SLI. We got a set of 71.24 from Gigabyte for their single board dual 6600GT solution, the 3D1, which we took a look at earlier this week.

The final step is actually enabling SLI in the NVIDIA driver control panel. It does require a system reboot so for anyone finishing off their Nobel Prize winning paper, save first.

For relatively complicated technology, it is good to see that the setup and installation process remains straightforward for anyone who is comfortable enough to assemble their own system.