Replies

Stanford University is using ATI’s GPUs (Graphics Processor Units) to run Folding@Home....

Question Tex...

If one of the new ATI units gets installed, will the running F@H app auto-sense the new hardware, or does a different version need to be downloaded???

Thanx ~GCR~

p.s. still folding between 91st-95th place since mis summer :)

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