[NTLUG:Discuss] A7N8X and graphics cards

[Chris Cox]

   tr_data1 wrote:
> I hope this isn't too off topic or vague...
> 
> I'm in the process of picking out hardware for a Linux machine. I have
> decided on the A7N8X mb but need assistance on the video card.
> The AMD Barton 2500 is under $100 (vs twice for 2800). Probably
> 2 sticks of 512MB of Crucial 3200.
> 
> 1) Is there any proof that ATI cards have problems in motherboards
> .   having an NVidia chipset? Or proof of success? Specifically, I am 
> .   looking at the AIW 8500DV, which Mandrake HW compat says is
> .   OK for linux, but obviously can't speak for the question at hand.

ATI cards still have some driver issues (compared to Nvidia cards).

> 
> 2) Does NVidia make video _cards_? I have yet to find a store that
> .   has graphics cards "made by NVidia". "Powered by NVidia", sure -
> .   Asus, Gains..., VGA, ... (huge list). But MADE BY ones? Where?

Nvidia makes chipsets... those chipsets are used and sold by
a variety of different manufacturers.  There are some reference
Nvidia boards... but mostly just for sneak-peak reviewers.

I'd probably stay with an Nvidia based board for now.

> 
> The general goal is a card that does dual monitor (yes, I know the
> 8500DV doesn't), very stable under Mandrake/linux, fast (but I'm not
> a gamer), and runs relatively cool and quiet. I have my doubts as
> to needing more than 128MB video but feel free to give reasons to
> consider 256. The main use for the system will be code development,
> photo (digital camera), and video (camcorder) manipulation. I wish
> to have a 19" tube and 17-19" flat panel (DVI) hooked up.
> =TR=

If you're not a gamer (user of accelerated 3D), you have many options.
I still think the 2D quality of my old Matrox G200 beats my Ti4600 based
board...  It's kind of a shame to seen Matrox falling apart.  They did
some things really well (including dual monitor support, though the
G200 did not support this... at least not with mine).