Issue with GTX 770 not launching at x16
Issue with GTX 770 not launching at x16
I assembled a previous setup for older games such as Fallout 3, but noticed with GPUz that my 770 was showing "PCIe x16 3.0 @ x8 1.1". It states the GPU is x16 but it's actually running at x8. I wondered if this motherboard can support full x16 due to its crossfire capabilities for x4 or x4-1. Anyone has an opinion?
Welcome to the forums, newcomer!
Are you using the MSI PC Mate z97 motherboard? Could you confirm the BIOS version currently installed? Please note the specifications of your power supply unit in your build. Check HWInfo to see if GPU performance varies when it's under load.
That's the motherboard, and the latest BIOS is installed. The power supply uses a Corsair CX750M unit that's about a year old. I'm connected to the GPU using two different PCIe cables—one with 8x pins and another with an x6 pin. Instead of one cable, I have both.
Test the second PCIe slot. If it still shows 8x, proceed to clean graphics card slot contacts using isopropyl and lint-free Q-tips. Repeat the same steps for the first PCIe slot, checking if the second slot works correctly.
Support for x16, x4/x4 configurations is unusual, yet it shouldn’t restrict you to viewing only 8x. The 4x/4x setup aligns with how crossfire functions. It appears the issue might lie with the motherboard or GPU, as the GPU seems to have additional concerns. The overall system feels quite old, suggesting it’s time to upgrade.
The i7-4790 can be matched easily on a budget, but finding GPUs right now isn’t ideal. GTX 1650 Super matches a GTX 770 and beyond, while a RTX 3050 6GB offers solid value for under $200. An Intel B580 12GB is available for $310, and the RX 7600 is also available at $300. The used market remains the most practical option for a GPU.
CPU options range from an Intel Core i3-13100 at $120 to higher-end models like 12700K/12700KF or 13600K/14600K based on budget.
PCPartPicker Part List
CPU: Intel Core i3-13100 3.4 GHz Quad-Core ($120 @ Amazon)
Motherboard: Gigabyte Z790 S WIFI DDR4 (rev. 1.0) ATX LGA1700 ($119.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Ripjaws V 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR4-3600 CL18 ($52.99 @ Newegg)
Video Card: ONIX LUMI OC Arc B580 12 GB ($309.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $602.97 (includes shipping, taxes, and discounts)
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2025-05-09 14:14 EDT-0400
Similar to the GTX 1080 TI or a previous 7990, it makes sense to use two PCI express cables to connect the GPU rather than relying on one.
I believe the GPU is functioning well since my FPS was better in unigine haven 4.0 than in most 770s that aren’t too overcooked by the manufacturer.