14 DAY TRIAL // For a long time now, both NVIDIA and AMD have designed dual-GPU graphics cards meant to meet the requirements of those high-end computer and overclocking enthusiasts. However, despite the fact that both GPU makers can provide similar solutions, the differences of design between the two are obvious. While Sunnyvale, California-based AMD has decided to go for a dual-GPU on a single PCB solution, NVIDIA has gone for a dual-GPU, dual-PCB alternative. However, according to some recent details, the Santa Clara, California-based leading graphics chip maker is considering adopting its own dual-GPU, single-PCB design, with an upcoming refresh to the company's current GTX 295.
According to a recent article on expreview, NVIDIA is planning a refresh of the GTX 295 PCB, which is currently codenamed P656. The new PCB change, codenamed P658, should provide NVIDIA fans with a high-end graphics card that boasts two GT200 GPUs on a single PCB, much like the solution ATI has adopted for some time now. However, aside from the PCB change and internal GPU configuration, the new card is pretty much the same as its currently available counterpart, the GTX 295.
The length of the new PCB will remain at 266.7mm, as well as the 6pin+8pin power connectors. The new card should also boast the same clock frequencies as the company's current model, but it will be offered with a different cooling solution, capable of managing the heat emitted by the two GPUs. There's also a mention about a new backplate for the card, a feature will not affect its price tag.
NVIDIA will apparently finish the engineering sample of the new GTX 295 sometime next month, but the new card will not be officially launched until May. Apparently, the new PCB solution will likely reduce the pricing of the card, but the company is yet to confirm that.