Question 1

Hello, I just took my first computer network and repair class so I don't really know some things about building a computer, but if you guys could answer this question I would be most obliged, thank you.
Would this graphics card fit my GIGABYTE GA-Z87M-D3H 1.0 LGA 1150 Intel Z87 HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 Micro ATX Intel Motherboard?

Accepted Answer

Yes, they will work together, but it seems a little strange to me. You seem to have chosen a VERY powerful graphics card, and a micro atx motherboard with only one slot for one of these cards. that makes it much harder to upgrade later. If you have room, I'd pick a larger mobo. Think of it as the base of your computer. you can only fit as much on it as you have room for.

Btw, when I bought this card, it was for a graphic design major who works with heavy 3d modelling and rendering. He loves it.

P.s. To check compatibility in the future. go to specifications on the graphics card and mobo. Then match the interface to the expansion slots, respectively. I hope this helps, take your time when building and don't take any step that you don't understand. If you're confused at any time, read and ask until you aren't. Building a computer is easy yet delicate. I also recommend that if possible you get assistance from someone who's done this before for your first time.

Question 2

I have a Dell OptiPlex 380 desktop running Windows 7 pro with a 220W power supply. I want to buy the AMD FirePro W5000. Is it compatible on my system? Do I need to buy a bigger power supply to make it work? Can I even do that?

Accepted Answer

Yes the W5000 will work, and it is a very efficient card, but your power supply is quite small. I think you'd want a bare-minimum of 350 or 400w. Also - your computer is quite old and this card is massive overkill for your machine. I don't think its a very good match.

Question 3

confused about how to connect 3 or more displays.  do you use all three card outputs or split the 2 display outputs?

Accepted Answer

I use all three video ports on the card with three different types and sizes of monitors connected and they work fine. The cables have different version (like I and D  or 1 and 2 version similar to USB 1, 2, & 3) that you need to ensure match your card and the monitor's requirements. You also have to configure each monitor in the Catalyst Control Center software in order to get them all working. I also uninstalled Hydavision from after installing the CCC software. Had problems with it and have not check to see if it has been resolved yet. Check the AMD website for the latest drivers also that go with your OS 7, 8 and 32 or 64 bit.

The AMD site does have support FAQ that may also help.

Question 4

What size power box is necessary to run this card?

Accepted Answer

Not sure what all you are running in your system.  I am running an i7-4770K processor with 32 GB RAM, 512 SSD and 750GB HDD.  We put a 700W power source in that system and is doing fine.  We did add a separate cooler, but that was really for the motherboard/processor.

Question 5

Ive recently purchased two of these cards to be run in a workstation that needs 6 monitors.  the problem is, after i get my windows environment established running 6 monitors.  when i shutdown and reboot the following day it will refuse to boot into windows until i remove all but 1 monitor.  I am running windows 7 pro 64, i have updated to the newest ati firepro driver, running on a fresh installation of windows.  any help would be appreciated?

Accepted Answer

I am only running one card, and three monitors.  I am on Windows 8, 64 bit, and have no problems.  Can you uninstall one card, and work properly with the three monitors, like I have?  Can you run both cards with only a single monitor on each, and reboot successfully?  I'm just trying to narrow the variables.

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