Correct Video Card Config + PSU

[rider_eragon]

Hi,

I've just finished writing up my new computer's specs, and have found that the video card is a sticky spot. I'm limited to a budget, so I can't afford any HD 4870 X2 cards (sadly), and my motherboard is CrossFire, not SLI, so I'm not looking at nVidia (plus ATi is much cheaper anyway). I work with a 1440 x 900 resolution and will not be getting a bigger screen.

I'm looking at buying one or two HD 4890(s) or two HD 4870s or two HD 4850s. I'll be using these cards for:

- DirectX 10.1 gaming
- Game Modding/Hobbyist Development
- Programming

The games I play are:

- Crysis
- Call of Duty 4-6
- Dead Space
- Fallout 3
- Unreal Tournament

I plan on running these games at maximum graphics (i.e. Crysis at Very High).

Once I have this down pat, I'll also need to work out what power supply to use. I assume that two 4890s will need an 850+W PSU, and a single card would require a 650+W PSU, but I might be wrong. As for the other two configurations, I'm completely clueless.

Edit: Would I get my money's worth from CrossFire? A friend told me that very few games use SLI/CrossFire, and those that do are not cross-platform (which would rule out CoD, DS and F3).

Any ideas?

Cheers,

rider_eragon

 

[Raidur]

4870 and 4890 can run most games on max settings all by themselves at 1440x900. Crysis DX10 not so much but I'm sure you figured. I would start off with a 4890 and see how you like it, then decide whether or not to go Xfire, although that might mess up your PSU purchase. TBH crossfire 4890 is overkill at anything lower than 1920 resolution. Ultimately, the 5000 ATI series is releasing very soon and might be worth waiting for, unless it exceeds your budget.

So, if you want the best bang for your buck get 2x 4850s and crossfire. If you want some more (single gpu) horsepower with the possibility of an upgrade (crossfire) in the future get a single 4870/90 and see how you like it (btw you won't quite need 650w for a single 4890, more like 550 or so, as long as it is a quality PSU, or you can jump ahead and buy a 750-850 to keep you open for xfire in the future w/o PSU upgrade). OR wait out for the 5 series.

I'd wait it out and see what the 5 series has to offer, but thats just me.

Oh yeah off the top of my head I'd get these ratings for those to be safe, since you were confused. =P
4850 400W+
4870 450W+
4890 500W+
2x 4850 650W+
2x 4870 750W+
2x 4890 850W+

Just make sure you stick with a reputable company like Corsair or Antec for your PSUs.

 

[jyjjy]

Save your money. A single HD4870 will kick ass at that resolution.