VR-Zone

Not content with the ARES dual-HD 5870, Asus is undertaking a project which defies all logic and reason. As we know, the single GPU GTX 480 is right on the edge of PCI-e specifications. This doesn't bother Asus at all, as they seem to be making a dual GPU version of the GTX 480. We are talking of a single graphics card with a power consumption of between 500 and 600W!!! The power is supplied through 8+2 phase VRM per GPU, with three 8-pin PCI-e power connectors. That means a total of 525W is supplied to the graphics card, compared to the PCI-e spec maximum of 300W.



The Mars II features a total of 3GB, as expected for a dual-GTX 480. The size of Mars II is truly massive - with the height being well over a standard PCI-e card.

An unprecedently hefty cooler must be required to cool 500+W of heat. Could we see the first quad-slot graphics card?

The GTX 480 SLI performs well against the Asus ARES, so we can expect Mars II to just edge out the likes of Asus ARES or Sapphire HD 5970 4GB TOXIC for the overall performance crown, assuming the Mars II does not require a slight downclock.

The Mars II (is just a temporary name) will no doubt be a limited edition card, and will probably sell at a price close to $1500. Perhaps Asus will produce quad-GPU card next, as dual-GF100 seems well on its way to be conquered.

Reference: TechPowerUp