Tom's Hardware > Forum > Graphic & Displays > Graphics Cards > how many video cards do I need?
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zerojet   10-01-2008 at 05:00:01 PM

Hi,

I am interested to set up a system with dual 24 inch monitors (each running at 1920x1200).

One screen will be for full screen use (Word, Excel, PhotoShop, some CAD, PC Game such as World of Warcraft, or first person shooter).

The other screen will be for news feeds, watching TV (I have a TV out card), and misc desktop apps like some of the google gadgets. I will watch TV all the time, even when playing games, gotta keep up with ESPN.

Do I need to use two video cards for this or I can just use one high-end card like ATI 4850? I assume 2 video cards would be better because under extreme conditions, each video card can be dedicated to a task: one would decode TV while the other one processes game information.

Also, when I play the games, will the mouse cursor move over to the other screen?

Many Thanks,

J

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geofelt   10-01-2008 at 05:10:20 PM
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I have such a setup.
You only need one card.
Most games will use only the main screen.
In fullscreen mode, the cursor will not move to the other screen.
In windowed mode, the cursor can move wherever.
How this works is dependent on how the game was designed.

Since the second display is somewhat static, it does not seem to take anything out of performance of the game.

I would try it with just your gaming vga card first. If you later think a second card is in order, you can add it later. If you do not have two PCIE slots, the second card can be a PCI card.

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jcorqian   10-01-2008 at 05:12:28 PM
- 0 +

You only need one compatible card with two DVI connectors. Basically any mid to upper range card in today's world will suffice.

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Zenthar   10-01-2008 at 05:26:38 PM
- 0 +

To me a 4850 is mid-range, not high-end. A 4870 is low-high-end and I think it would be a better candidate for 1920x1200 gaming. High resolution screens are fun to work with, but when gaming it can become a monetary burden :P.

------------------------------ The capacity to learn is a gift; The ability to learn is a skill; The willingness to learn is a choice. - Rebec of Ginaz
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Kari   10-01-2008 at 05:39:32 PM
- 0 +

Edit: nevermind :P


Message edited by Kari on 10-01-2008 at 05:41:52 PM
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