Fan setup adding a second GPU

[Bongolongo]

Hi forum,

I'm adding a second GPU to my rig for use in a CUDA-based render engine (Octane). It's not running SLI or anything, just being added to the system. I currently have a GTX970 and I'm adding in an ASUS STRIX 1080 ti.

However, the manual for my motherboard (ASUS Z270-A) has a note on installing GPUs:
"Connect chassis fans to the motherboard chassis fan connectors when using multiple graphics cards for better thermal environment."

And I have absolutely no idea what this means...and no idea where any fans might be connected.
I haven't done any cooling setup myself, in terms of fan connections or controlling.

My case is a Fractal Design Define R5 with standard case fans - that's all I know. Do I need to tinker with something or should I just leave it as it is already set up? It currently runs cool and quiet at all times, with just one GPU.

Cheers!

 

[clutchc]

You should have:

Front: 2 x 120/140 mm fans (included is 1 Fractal Design Dynamic GP14 fan, 1000 RPM speed)
Rear: 1 x 120/140 mm fan (included is 1 Fractal Design Dynamic GP14 fan, 1000 RPM speed)

You should be fine as is. Just keep an eye on GPU temps for awhile.

 

[tejayd]

You're likely fine. It's meant for people who dont have any case fans already.

On your mobo, you should have multiple 3-4 pin fan connectors. That control and power chassis/case fans.

 

[Bongolongo]

You should have:

Front: 2 x 120/140 mm fans (included is 1 Fractal Design Dynamic GP14 fan, 1000 RPM speed)
Rear: 1 x 120/140 mm fan (included is 1 Fractal Design Dynamic GP14 fan, 1000 RPM speed)

You should be fine as is. Just keep an eye on GPU temps for awhile.

Hi clutchc, thank you for the reply.

Do you mean I ought to have two fans in front, or just that it's a possibility in case things run hot?

Regarding the quote from the manual, I don't get the meaning of it. It seems to imply that I should rewire something in regard to how the motherboard detects heat?

Should I leave my cooling setup in the BIOS as is?

Sorry, but in regard to cooling I'm a complete dummy...

 

[Bongolongo]

You're likely fine. It's meant for people who dont have any case fans already.

On your mobo, you should have multiple 3-4 pin fan connectors. That control and power chassis/case fans.

Hi tejayd, thanks for replying - when looking inside I can see the two case fans connected to CHA_FAN1 and CHA_FAN2 on the motherboard, so that's practically what the manual is suggesting?

 

[tejayd]

Correct. That's exactly what they are suggesting.

Most people (like yourself) will already have the fan/fans.

 

[Bongolongo]

Thanks again.