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Sparklies: Higher Quality DVI cable?

MartinX

One Hour Martinizing While You Wait
Joined
Jan 23, 2003
Messages
7,184
Hi, I have a Dell 2001fp and I suffer from the "Sparklies" problem , that is caused, I believe, by a weak DVI signal.

I use a sapphire radeon9700pro, and don't get the sparklies when I use the option in the drivers that cuts the bandwith (or whatever) at high res, but it is my understanding that the r9700pro shouldn't have any problems pushing a 16x12 signal at full strength.

However, Given what I paid for the monitor, I'd prefer not to have to be limiting anything.

There aren't any strong interference sources (speakers, etc) any where near the existing cable run.

I have tried another DVI cable, but it looks like it is actually identical (same make, length) and doesn't improve anything.

Would a higher quality DVI cable make a difference?

If they exist, where would I get one (preferably in Europe)?

Is the strength of the signal being generated by the graphics card the only factor?

If so, will the gainward 6800U GS I have pre-ordered do a better job?

Thanks.
 
When I had those with a 9700 and 2000fp, I just unchecked the "Alternate DVI mode" checkbox in the advanced section of the display control panel. It seemed to make them go away - you won't be limiting your bandwidth.
 
Ineresting, I ignored that setting because the "Reduce frequency..." option was mentioned in another article on the topic, and it made the sparklies go away.

You don't happen to know what the "Alternate DVI operational mode" actually does/is?

The reduce frequency one is fairly self explanatory, and I've always kind of thought that the "reduced frequency" might be hurting IQ in fast paced games (depending on exactly what frequency they mean).
 
That reduce frequency option is not a must, but it's used when you are having problems with high resolutions like 1600x1200 or 1920x1200. Mostly 1920x1200 since it's out of DVI specs, but 1600x1200 should be ok since it is within the specifications.
 
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