Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
and later (up to 10 displays) using any combination of single- or dualview adapters. The
installation is simple because only a single driver is required for all the adapters and dis-
plays.
BecauseATIandNVIDIAuseaunifieddriverarchitecturetosupporttheircurrentproduct
lines, you can use two (or more) ATI-based or NVIDIA-based cards to create the desired
homogeneous multiple-monitor configuration. The specific cards and even chipsets can
be different, as long as they can use the same driver.
Heterogeneous Adapters
Heterogeneous adapters are those using chipsets from different manufacturers or from in-
compatible chipset families within the same manufacturer, which therefore require differ-
ent drivers. This method has largely been superseded by Dualview or by using matching
display adapters.
Note
Formoreinformationaboutusingheterogeneousadapters,see
“
HeterogeneousAdapters
,”in
the disc packaged with this topic.
Video Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Solving most graphics adapter and monitor problems is fairly simple, but costly, because
replacing the adapter or display is the normal procedure. Except for specialized CAD or
graphics workstation-oriented adapters, virtually all of today's adapters cost more to ser-
vice than to replace, and the documentation required to service the hardware properly is
not always available. You can't get schematic diagrams, parts lists, wiring diagrams, and
other documents for most adapters or monitors. However, before you replace an appar-
ently failed component, be sure you have exhausted all your other options. These include
following the troubleshooting tips in the next section and checking the warranty status of
your device.
Tip
Ifyou'renotinthehabitofregisteringnewlypurchasedproducts,it'sagoodhabittopickup.
Registering your hardware helps to verify warranty status, sometimes provides longer war-
ranty coverage for your equipment, and helps the vendor reach you with updates or service
advisories.
