Two distinct Nvidia graphics cards installed on a single computer.
Two distinct Nvidia graphics cards installed on a single computer.
Hello everyone, I’m working with two monitors—one connected through DVI and the other via HDMI. I recently upgraded to a GTX 970 because it lacks an HDMI port, so I added my old GT710 as a secondary HDMI display. The problem is: when I install the driver for the GTX 970, the secondary monitor fails to connect. If I try installing drivers for the GT710, both monitors function but performance is extremely slow, and the GTX 970 doesn’t appear in Task Manager. How can I manage both drivers simultaneously?
Use both monitors through the same card. DVI to HDMI converters are cheap, around a dollar or less. I bought one just to display my old 23" HP 1080p screen, so I have a place for all my open webpages and links while playing Eve Online. Running two drivers is going to cause problems, even if you manage to install both, which is unlikely.
The DVI display connects to the GTX 970, while the HDMI screen links to the GTX 710.
Determine if the system runs Fermi or Kepler GT 710. Check GPU-Z under "GPU" to see GF119S for Fermi or GK208/GK208B for Kepler. Also, identify the current GPU driver version—Kepler requires a fairly old driver while Fermi needs an older one.
I get the idea but for instance GTX 970 runs with Nvidia driver 353.06 whereas the older GTX 280 uses driver 341.44. Installing one version from nvidea just replaces the other. The Nvidea control panel lets you pick a different GPU installed and choose one suited for Phys X, though it’s been noted to slow down the slower card when you select it. Alternatively, check the Device Manager, choose GPU adapters, and opt for the older card with a generic driver to prevent conflicts with newer software. Personally, I’d go with the fastest card and use a cheap adapter plug—just bought one last week in Asia for about 2.50 USD.