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Mac Pro Graphics Card Upgrade
Posted: Tue Feb 04, 2014 9:10 am
by chedda
I have a 12x2.93 mac pro which is currently using an ATI 5870. I think when i upgrade to V3 i will also upgrade the video card. Can next limit confirm which mac native graphics cards have been tested with the open cl abilities of V3 ? I believe i am looking at an ATI 7970 or GTX 680.
Re: Mac Pro Graphics Card Upgrade
Posted: Tue Feb 04, 2014 7:12 pm
by dmeyer
The only part of Maxwell that is OpenCL enabled is the multi light editing of MXI's.
I've not tested them but I'd bet any of those cards should be fine...emphasis on larger VRAM memory.
Re: Mac Pro Graphics Card Upgrade
Posted: Tue Feb 04, 2014 8:29 pm
by chedda
Thanks for the reply dmeyer, i have been doing some research as well. it seems new technology is coming soon which shares system memory. I'm not so sure i would be well future proofed at the moment. It's a small part of maxwell i guess but maybe it shows the way they are heading with development. My old style mac pro will now have less options in the future regarding cards as well. I reckon the AMD 7970 is the best bet at the moment.
Re: Mac Pro Graphics Card Upgrade
Posted: Wed Feb 05, 2014 6:18 am
by Gary
I am also considering the same upgrade— hoping Nextlimit can give some guidance here.
Thanks,
Gary
Re: Mac Pro Graphics Card Upgrade
Posted: Wed Feb 05, 2014 5:02 pm
by hatts
Next Limit has repeatedly downplayed or rejected the idea of GPU based rendering. Don't hold your breath and certainly don't make hardware purchases in anticipation of something that has no evidence of happening.
GPUs help with workflow in your host 3D application. If it's not hindering you there, it's a waste to upgrade, IMHO.