[dfwddr]

Some quick notes to those interested in the GPU folding.

-You must be running XP
-The vid card needs to be based on the ATI X1900 or X1950 chip. This does not mean the card is labeled as a Raedon. Other manufacturers cards will work, as long as the chip is right.
-The X1600,X1650, and X1800 will fold, but are not supported, you may have to fool device manager into thinking it's a 19xx.
-Only ATI drivers 6.5 and 6.10 work for folding.
-You need DX9.0c or later installed. (need d3dx9_30.dll)
-You need a PCI-E board and power supply. There will be decent AGP versions available "in December" (already in UK?)
-512k HIGHLY recommended
-Cost = 150.00 to 425.00
-You must have separate accounts set up for each user on the computer.
- CTRL-ALT-DEL will close client
-GPU needs at LEAST 25% CPU time free.
-Shaders are used for folding. Higher shaders = higher PPD. This is why GForce will not work.
- Your GPU will run HOT.
- Some claim 600 PPD off a GPU, but reality hasn't had it's full say yet. Your mileage may vary......



There seems to be some "known issues" (they are not calling them "bugs") running a GPU client and a CPU client at the same time. You will get lag every 4-5 seconds unless you pump up the GPU clock and voltage. 512 vs. 256 helps, but not a sure cure.

At this point, you seem to have to trade your CPU folding for GPU folding (after a $200-$400 expense, not counting MB and PS issues).
My main box that already has a PCI-E slot and PS is running a duel core CPU, so I personally and not going to trade at this point. REMEMBER, this is still in beta, so don't dismiss anything at this point, just don't think you can shove a X19xx in your box and pick up an extra 600 PPD.

If anyone would like to donate the GPU to me, I'll be happy to do further research and report back. LOL

[GoldCountryRedneck]

The X1600,X1650, and X1800 will fold.. not supported... have to fool device manager...(need d3dx9_30.dll)... need a PCI-E board ...CTRL-ALT-DEL will close client.....some "known issues"... will get lag every 4-5 seconds...pump up the GPU clock and voltage... not a sure cure.

Ummmm, thanks dfw...I think.

I'm just gonna stick with my own dual-core for now. It ain't broke, soooooooo...

[SoftballMominVA]

Vid chip--I have a NVidea GeForce 7600 GS--I think it's doing pretty goood, not sure.

[texas booster]

I dropped into my local CompUSA to look at deals on X1900 cards. Almost got one for $190 but they seem to be sold out chain wide. Real bummer.

I will try to grab one by Christmas and start the experiment, if I can get it by the Finance Committee.

Hmm, where are those diamond ads I saw last week?