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CrossfireX is a modern technology developed by the Advanced Micro Devices, abbreviated as AMD. It allows the computer user to connect two graphics cards to combine resources.
The two graphics cards work as a unified device, allowing superior performance. If you want to improve your computer graphics and enhance your gaming experience, setting up the AMD Crossfire on your machine is definitely a good way to go.
The below steps will guide you through the whole process of installing your graphics cards and also setting up AMD Crossfire. The aim of this guide is to make this process quick and efficient so you can get right into utilizing both cards. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Note: If you’re using Nvidia Cards then check out our how-to guide on setting up the Nvidia SLI.
How to Install Dual Graphics Cards Properly
- Before you do anything, make sure your PC’s motherboard is Crossfire compatible. You can do this by checking your motherboard's name and then searching for this information in Google.
- Next, you’ll need to install your cards into the PCI-e slots and make sure they are secure before moving on to connecting them to your power supply (which should be at least 750 Watts)
- After making sure the cards are in place, connect them to each other using a Crossfire bridge (usually comes with the graphics card, but you can also by one)
- Now we’re ready to move on and start setting up the AMD Crossfire!
How to Set Up the AMD Crossfire
A few years ago, the aspect of adding multiple cards in the Crossfire configuration often led to significant problems when gaming. Although multiple cards worked wonders for some games, in others, one could see lower frame rates than when using only one card. However, over the past few years, the Crossfire performance and driver support have improved significantly.
In fact, most current games are greatly enhanced by adding a second card. In spite of minor issues like micro-stuttering when using multiple cards, the Crossfire option is still crucial, especially if you want to enhance the performance of your games.
Some of the requirements for running the AMD CrossFire include; 2 or more AMD-Radeon, HD-2000 Series or higher graphics cards from the same family model number, the AMD Crossfire supporting motherboard and, at least an AMD-Crossfire interconnect bridge for every additional graphics card. Note that running two or more graphics cards on your system may also require a high-rated power supply or one with enough connections for every graphics card. Below are some of the steps you can follow to set up the AMD Crossfire:
1. First of all, you need to uninstall the current AMD drivers. Just press the "Start" button, then type “uninstall a program". Select “AMD Catalyst Install Manager” click “Change” right at the top. Choose “Express-Uninstall ALL AMD Software,” to remove all AMD drivers and software. This will make it easier for you to start afresh with the most current versions.
Once this process has been completed, you will be prompted to restart the computer. Upon rebooting the machine, you can download a driver sweeper program to help you remove any traces of the AMD software which were left on your computer.
2. The next step is to download the latest version of the AMD driver software. Select the “Express Installation” option. The rest of the process is intuitive and self-explanatory. Upon completing this, you will be prompted to restart the system again, after which, the screen resolution will return to normal.
3. Checking compatibility: Note that not all motherboards allow dual graphics card setups. It is, therefore, important to ensure that the motherboard is compatible before you try to install the second card. You can confirm this by going to the product page, then checking the specifications of that computer motherboard. You also need to ensure that the two cards are compatible.
4. To install another graphics card, you will need to fully shut down the entire system again. Ensure you leave the Crossfire bridge off, so as to double check whether the second card is being recognized by the system. Just install the card and turn the computer back on.
When you get to Windows, you will be prompted with the message “New Hardware has been successfully installed". However, in case you do not see such a message, go to the “Start" button, then type in “Device Manager". Click the option that will appear under the “Display Adapters” option, and you will be able to see all the installed AMD cards there.
5. After confirming that the system has recognized and installed the second card, you can shut it down again and put the Crossfire Bridge back on. You can then turn the computer back on. In Windows, go to the tray icon and open the “AMD Catalyst Control Center.” On the left side, under the “Gaming” tab, select “AMD CrossfireX.” Click on “Enable AMD CrossfireX.” You need to restart the system again, and, at this point, your AMD Crossfire setup will become fully functional.
Conclusion
With this guide, we hope you’ve been able to install your AMD Crossfire and are now ready to game! Enjoy your new dual graphics card setup!
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