GTX 580 size

[kavorka]

I recently bought 2 PNY GTX 580s, my motherboard has 4 PCIeX16 slots. When I put in my 580s, they take up the space for 2 expansion slots, making it so I actually cannot upgrade to 4 580s. Is this true with other makers, like EVGA? My lowest PCIeX16 slot wont actually allow me to put one of these cards in it because the fan will be inside the case...

[glimpse]

Actually majority of higher end gaming cards require dual slots. Some of them (like gainwards) with custom coolers will take even three =) if You want single slot probably the best solution is to go for something like evga Hydro coopers - these are watercooled single slot models (thought read somewhere that swiftech's waterblock are kind of restrictive compared to others like xspc's).

Another solution might be to use raisers/extenders in order to space cards, so they could fit or even be spaced out a bit more for better air circulation between cards =)

[kavorka]

what are raisers and extenders? Do these change the performance of the cards?

[julianb]

I was in the same situation some time ago. What helped me a little was to modify the PC case a bit- I cut a rectangular shape in it just so I can fit one more card at the end. And since the card was dual slot part of it stuck outside. It wasn't perfect but it helped with the temperatures since the hot air was being blown directly outside (for that card only).
If you want to fit 3,4 or more graphics card the solution is like glimpse suggested- water cooling them individually or riser cards. I am pretty sure riser cards do not worsen GPU performance (somebody correct me if I am wrong) but they require a bit more creativity when it comes down to cards arrangement.
Good luck.

[ChrisVis]

Hi kavorka,

if watercooling is an option for you, go for the POV GTX 580 beast 3GB.
It only uses one Slot, because of the removed fan. It is very fast and the price is ok.
Can be purchased here:

http://www1.atelco.de/3072+MB/gtx%2B580 ... icle?lid=2

The product foto isn`t correct (shows 2 slot hight). Have a look at my GPU Expansion Thread (first 2 pictures), the upper card in the rig is the excact GTX 580 card ordered from atelco. I have another one in my PC system.

http://render.otoy.com/forum/viewtopic. ... +Expansion

Hope that helps,
cheers