Considering adding a second 4870 to my system (the egg has them for $195). I have a 650W thermaltake toughpower.......will it be enough. I'm already running 1 4870, plus a q6600@3.6ghz. Not to mention a few hard drives, and an assload of fans. Theoretically, I think with a second card, at max consumption, I could potentially draw 650W. I know that's not likely, and the psu is rated for 80% eff. Anyway, is it enough?
Most power supply manufacturers recommend you run their PSUs at 60% of rated capacity. You'd be well over 90% with your system as described. Even a 750w would be hard pressed by your system, time to look for a new PSU if you get another 4870.
Message edited by dirtmountain on 09-13-2008 at 07:35:06 AM
The combined 5v and 3.3v max is: 180W (hard to see, almost looked like 160w)
Which would leave 470w for 12v side (if its 180w for 5v/3.3v).
Using the PS Calculator, just the CPU and 4870/CF with the CPU @ 60% TDP 384W, which leaves 86w.
Hard to say how much a game (different games may be more CPU intensive) would put on a CPU (which could be less then 60%), but normally the quad isn't going to get fully utilized which would change that figure drastically if all 4 cores were under load.
I think I'd be pushing it...plus the cheap 4870s are gone. The egg has a 1000W sparkle unit for ~$145....think I'll order one of those and wait for another deal. I don't really need a second 4870; only play at 1680x1050. But I do suffer from the need for speed.
You are about to answer a thread that has been inactive for more than 6 months. If you still wish to proceed, please ensure that your posting is original and does not duplicate or overlap any prior responses to this thread.