Replace 8800GT with MSI 6870?

[OracleRedux]

I have a Mac Pro with what seems to be a dying 8800GT. I have seen one instance so far of a green followed by grey flickering screen with lots of artifacts. A hard reset solved the problem and I am now using the computer. However, my reading of these forums would suggest the 8800GT is on borrowed time. The Mac Pro is only a few months outside of Apple Care warranty (typical).

Is the PC version of a 6870 - specifically this one; MSI HD 6870 Twin Frozr II 1GB a viable alternative?

Reading around would suggest that this should work without Firmware modification, and, under Lion, I shouldn't even have to install drivers.

 

[OracleRedux]

This is where I got the idea for the MSI card from:

http://markeclinger.com/blog/mac-pro/msi-hd-6870-video-card-how-to-install/

Obviously if I am better off going for a Sapphire 6870 then I would do that. I prefer the MSI since they are reportedly quieter.

 

[handheldgames]

This is where I got the idea for the MSI card from:

http://markeclinger.com/blog/mac-pro/msi-hd-6870-video-card-how-to-install/

Obviously if I am better off going for a Sapphire 6870 then I would do that. I prefer the MSI since they are reportedly quieter.

There is no detectable noise from the Sapphire 6870 out of the front of the MacPro...

 

[OracleRedux]

There is no detectable noise from the Sapphire 6870 out of the front of the MacPro...

Excellent Also, am I to assume that this means it can be installed, stock, no funny business whatsoever under Lion. Or are you assuming 10.6.8 and the independently installed drivers?

 

[handheldgames]

Excellent Also, am I to assume that this means it can be installed, stock, no funny business whatsoever under Lion. Or are you assuming 10.6.8 and the independently installed drivers?

Lion = no drivers/they are built in. 10.6.8 = package from groths.org

 

[OracleRedux]

Lion = no drivers/they are built in. 10.6.8 = package from groths.org

Thanks, handy to have it explicitly stated.

 

[slughead]

What about The Mac Pro 1,1? can I just plug in this card without firmware and run OS X?