GDDR is memory that has been built specifically to process graphics data. It 
will perform slightly faster than DDR, which is not specialized. As for SLI 
vs Crossfile, some people have better luck with Nvidia products, and some 
swear by ATI. I prefer Nvidia myself. The only thing I am aware of is that 
SLI and Crossfire are not compatable with each other, so choose wisely when 
buying your mainboard AND video card(s). As far as I am aware, both 
technologies required matched cards, identical in every aspect, to function 
properly, so keep that in mind as well. As for PCIe 2.0 vs PCIe x16, I 
believe 2.0 is an improvement over and above what the original specification 
is. The x16 refers to how wide the data bus is for that slot, and how wide 
determines how fast you can send and receive data through the bus. PCIe 2.0 
on the box probably means PCIe x16 with better support at the firmware 
level. Hope this helps your build out.

----- Original Message ----- 
From: <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Friday, May 30, 2008 3:54 PM
Subject: [PCBUILD] SLI vs Crossfire


>I am collecting parts for a new build to handle intense gaming and 3D
> applications. Though I won't be able to get the best ($600.00+ per card), 
> I hope  to
> do well in the $200.00 to 300.00 range. Probably will run an intel core 
> two
> duo initially perhaps upping to a quad at a later date (if this dosen't 
> cause
> problems with the OS). Will use XP though haven't decided on Home, Pro or
> Media.
>
> - My questions are what is the performance difference between Nvidia's 
> SLI
> and Radeon"s Crossfire set-ups?
>
> - Is there a great difference in the card's having GDDR2 memory as 
> compared
> to DDR2.
>
> - Is the PCIe 2.0 a big leap over PCIe x16?
>
> This will be a project that will start with one card only, adding the 
> second
> as I can afford it. I am researching elseware online but trust the 
> opinions
> found on this list as well as the "low-tech" answers.
>
> Thanks,
> -Phil-
>
>
>
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>
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