Question on PCIe Slots on Asus Maximus VII Formula When Running SLI

[NePOSi]

So I'm considering adding another gpu (GeForce GTX 980 Classified ACX 2.0) to run in SLI. Asus recommends placing the cards in the top two PCIe slots (both are PCIe 3.0 x16/x8 and x8); however, looking at the mobo it looks (to me at least) that doing so would place the cards really close to each other restricting airflow between them. Obviously I'd like to reduce overheating, so I figured that I could instead place it in the next slot down, but this slot is PCIe 2.0 x4_3. Furthermore, this 'review' claims it is reserved for three-way Crossfire...

 

So my question is: can I get away with installing a second card in that slot? Would the card just be forced to run at x4? And if so, would there be any appreciable detriment to performance if I do?

 

Picture attached for added clarification.

 

Best Regards!

[Glenwing]

26 minutes ago, NePOSi said:

So I'm considering adding another gpu (GeForce GTX 980 Classified ACX 2.0) to run in SLI. Asus recommends placing the cards in the top two PCIe slots (both are PCIe 3.0 x16/x8 and x8); however, looking at the mobo it looks (to me at least) that doing so would place the cards really close to each other restricting airflow between them. Obviously I'd like to reduce overheating, so I figured that I could instead place it in the next slot down, but this slot is PCIe 2.0 x4_3. Furthermore, this 'review' claims it is reserved for three-way Crossfire...

 

So my question is: can I get away with installing a second card in that slot? Would the card just be forced to run at x4? And if so, would there be any appreciable detriment to performance if I do?

 

Picture attached for added clarification.

 

Best Regards!

 

It isn't possible to use that slot for SLI. NVIDIA doesn't allow SLI to be enabled on ×4 connections at all.

[NumLock21]

There is a single slot spacing when running sli. You should be fine as long there are front intake fans that draws in cool air.

[NePOSi]

Quote

It isn't possible to use that slot for SLI. NVIDIA doesn't allow SLI to be enabled on ×4 connections at all.

I had an inkling that would be the case. Thanks for the response.

 

Quote

There is a single slot spacing when running sli. You should be fine as long there are front intake fans that draws in cool air.

Yeah there should be more than enough airflow with what I've got. I was just trying to avoid creating any problems for myself! I have an innate tendency to shoot myself in the foot! Thanks!