ATX vs SLI?

[Technique]

umm...im not sure if this is the exact comparison but whats the difference between an ATX computer and an SLI computer?

Again, im not sure if ATX can be compared to SLI or is it a whole different thing? :/

just need to know, coz i couldnt find anything that would answer my question in Search. ><

thanks

[ComputerNut]

Those are two completely different terms. ATX is the form factor for a motherboard (essentially, the standardized layout for all the motherboard components). SLi is a special type of video technology Nvidia created for high end gaming systems. and SLi based system are currently being uses on ATX based motherboards.

HTH

[flanzig1]

ATX is the format of a paricular mother board(size related)
SLI is a video card format(type of interface with the motherboard)

[Technique]

Ok i got it. thanks a lot. ><

Just another question.

If i have an SLi ready motherboard coz im planning on having dual graphics cards later on, is that possible?

[flanzig1]

You can get a SLI mother board and start with one video card and add later.

[Technique]

tyvm for the help again.

[jayb1234]

Yes. You can run the SLI motherboard with only one card. To use two cards you need the SLI board for nvidia based cards or a Crossfire board for ATI based cards.

[Freakitchen]

You'll also need an SLI Certified power supply for running two graphics card. The wattage required depends on the cards.

Check out the list at www.slizone.com

FK

[Technique]

ok, so last question i hope.

When building an SLi computer, (at this point i got the SLi ready powersupply, mobo, and the 2 video cards) how do u install it? Is it just as simple as it sounds? As in, just install 2 graphics cards or what? lol ><

thanks ^^

[Propain]

yes you just add the second card and theres a bridge that comes with your motherboard that allows you to join both cards together.Also you have to flip a little data card on the mobo so that the setup will run dual cards.PICTURE (http://www.pcper.com/image.php?aid=98&img=board_big.jpg) You can see the little card above the black PCIe slot . MORE PICTURES (http://www.pcper.com/article.php?aid=98&type=expert&pid=4)
Some cards are joined with cables , I think ATI runs the Crossfire setup with external cables.