New build posted – ThreadRipper and Thunderbolt updates!
New build posted – ThreadRipper and Thunderbolt updates!
Hello everyone. I’m preparing to buy and upgrade my system this week, but I’m quite unsure about my CPU choice. My intention is to get a 3960x + Asus Zenith 2 Extreme. Even though I noticed a better price on a 2950x + Zenith Extreme, I’m hesitant. My main concern is whether I can connect Thunderbolt using a GC Titan card or something similar. I’ve read it’s possible, though not exactly the same article. My other choice would be to stick with the same CPU but switch to a Gigabyte Designare, but honestly, I don’t like the appearance of this motherboard. It’s reasonably priced and everything seems fine while you’re not looking. The main issue is that this is the only Threadripper and Thunderbolt 3 compatible motherboard. The third option (I’ve been thinking a lot) is an i9 10900 + Rampage 6 Extreme Omega. I really like this idea, but I’m worried because there aren’t many upgrades compared to the Threadripper 3. I’d end up with 10 cores, but I’ll still get Thunderbolt 3 support. I can keep my CPU cooler and save some money. I’m not sure at all, but I need to decide. Also, if I lose Thunderbolt 3 compatibility, how would I transfer data to a MacBook Pro 16" and a Windows laptop with USB 3.0 Type C and Thunderbolt? I’m not entirely sure if I got it right, but I think a Thunderbolt 3 port is also USB 3.1 Gen1. Is that correct? Thanks in advance.
The Gigabyte card wouldn't fit on an Asus board because it's built for specific designs. You must select a board with the TB expansion slot and use the correct add-on card. For networking, Gen 1 or Gen 2 works, and it should connect with any USB device.
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Well that´s obvious but I have seen many cases were GC Titan works perfectly on non compatible boards, the 5.1 Mac Pro, for instance. I want to connect everything by cable and I think it is easier to me to use a USB rather than an old RJ45 and adjust the network. Of course I thought about it but I am considering a long run computer to last for the next 5 years or so and I want to add as many new compatible technologies as possible. That´s why I am so worried about Intel, no PCIe 4.0, no upgrade... Many different scenarios, work, gaming, media, photo and video editing, maybe even a home server. Of course, I know, I can go to a X570 with a Ryzen 7 or 9 and it will do but I want to be in the next level, it is 100% subjective.
Setting up the TB3 connection forms a network that requires further adjustments, and from what I understand, a Mac and Windows setup both need reconfiguration each time you disconnect it. Not very convenient.
It's definitely tough, but knowing I have it gives me more confidence. Perhaps eventually I'll switch to an external HDD, just like I did in college, but I might need TB3 later and I'm doing my best now.