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Scalable Link Interface

lastmod 2020-09-25created 2016-06-032 edits

Scalable Link Interface (SLI) is a technology created by graphics chipset maker NVIDIA for installing multiple graphics cards, and it competes with the rival technology AMD CrossFire. Previously, cards of the same model could not be combined in SLI if their manufacturers differed, but with newer drivers, cards can be combined in SLI as long as their specifications match, even if they are not the same model from the same manufacturer. With dual SLI (2 graphics cards), performance increases by 33%. SLI also requires installing 2 or more graphics cards, and with the GeForce 7950 GX2 / GeForce 9800 GX2 / GeForce GTX 295 / GeForce GTX 590, Quad SLI can be set up with only 2 graphics cards installed.

Requirements for SLI configuration

  • The motherboard must support SLI. (SLI was supported only on nForce chipsets, but in exchange for paying a license fee, Intel chipsets also support SLI starting with the X58 chipset. However, because it raises unit costs, not all X58 chipset motherboards support SLI.)
  • The graphics cards must support SLI.
  • They must be the same model with equivalent specifications. (However, the series currently on sale may differ in memory and manufacturer.)
  • Installing multiple graphics cards requires multiple slots (PCI-Express 1.0/1.1/2.0).
  • The motherboard must be configured to allow an SLI setup.
  • When an SLI system is built with 2 or more graphics cards, a PSU that can support it is required.

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