ATI Radeon HD 3800 Series
User Guide

P/N 037-41424-00

ii© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices Inc. All rights reserved.
The contents of this document are provided in connection with Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (“AMD”)
products. AMD makes no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness ofthe contents of this publication and reserves the right to make changes to specifications and productdescriptions at any time without notice. The information contained herein may be of a preliminary or
advance nature and is subject to change without notice. No license, whether express, implied, arising by
estoppel or otherwise, to any intellectual property rights is granted by this publication. Except as set forthin AMD’s Standard Terms and Conditions of Sale, AMD assumes no liability whatsoever, and disclaims
any express or implied warranty, relating to its products including, but not limited to, the implied
warranty of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or infringement of any intellectual
property right. AMD’s products are not designed, intended, authorized or warranted for use ascomponents in systems intended for surgical implant into the body, or in other applications intended tosupport or sustain life, or in any other application in which the failure of AMD’s product could create asituation where personal injury, death, or severe property or environmental damage may occur. AMD
reserves the right to discontinue or make changes to its products at any time without notice.
AMD's products are not designed, intended, authorized or warranted for use as components in systems
intended for surgical implant into the body, or in other applications intended to support or sustain life,
or in any other application in which the failure of AMD's product could create a situation where personal
injury, death, or severe property or environmental damage may occur. AMD reserves the right todiscontinue or make changes to its products at any time without notice.

Trademarks
AMD, the AMD Arrow logo, AMD Athlon, AMD Opteron and combinations thereof, ATI and ATI productand product-feature names are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
HyperTransport is a licensed trademark of the HyperTransport Technology Consortium.
Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Other product names used in this publication are for identification purposes only and may be trademarksof their respective companies.
Disclaimer
While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this document, Advanced Micro Devices,
Inc. assumes no liability with respect to the operation or use of AMD hardware, software or otherproducts and documentation described herein, for any act or omission of AMD concerning such products
or this documentation, for any interruption of service, loss or interruption of business, loss of anticipatory
profits, or for punitive, incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing,performance, or use of the AMD hardware, software, or other products and documentation provided
herein.
Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. reserves the right to make changes without further notice to a product orsystem described herein to improve reliability, function or design. With respect to AMD products which
this document relates, AMD disclaims all express or implied warranties regarding such products,
including but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose,and non-infringement.
Product Notices
Dolby® Laboratories, Inc.

Manufactured under license from Dolby® Laboratories. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarksof Dolby Laboratories. Confidential Unpublished Works.
© 1992-1997 Dolby Laboratories, Inc. All rights reserved.
Macrovision
Apparatus Claims of U.S. Patent Nos. 4,631,603; 4,819,098; 4,907,093; 5,315,448; and 6,516,132. Licensed forlimited viewing uses only.
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by US patents and otherintellectual property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized byMacrovision, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized
by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

Documentation Updates
AMD is constantly improving its product and associated documentation. To maximize the value of yourAMD product, you should ensure that you have the latest documentation. AMD’s documentation contains
helpful installation/configuration tips and other valuable feature information.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

iii

Important Safety Instructions
Note: This product is for use only with compatible UL-listed personal computersthat have installation instructions detailing user installation of this class of product.
Read all instructions before beginning installation.
All safety and installation instructions should be read before the product is installed or
operated.
Retain all instructions.
Safety, installation, and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
Heed all warnings.
All warnings regarding the product and its operating instructions should be adhered to.
Use appropriate grounding.
Caution:For continued protection against the risk of electric shock and fire, install this accessory
only in products equipped with a three-wire grounding plug, a plug having a third(grounding) pin. A three-pin plug will only fit into a grounding-type power outlet. Thisis a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into the desired outlet, contact anelectrician to replace the obsolete outlet. Do not remove the grounding pin of a threepin plug.
Attach product securely.
All product-securing screws or fasteners should be completely tightened in order toprovide continuous bonding between the product and the PC chassis, as appropriate.
For cards with TV tuners:• Ground outdoor antenna appropriately.
Caution:
Since an outdoor antenna or cable system may be connected to the product, be surethat the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection
against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Article 810 of the National
Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, provides information with regard to proper
grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to
the antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antennadischarge unit, connection of grounding electrodes, and requirements for the
grounding electrode.
• Unplug system during storms or prolonged disuse.

Caution:For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left
unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet anddisconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the productfrom power-line surges.
• Install outdoor antenna system away from power lines.

Warning:
When installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keepfrom touching such power lines or circuits, as contact with them may be fatal.

© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00

iv

Caution:An outside antenna system should not be located in the vicinity of overhead powerlines or other light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or
circuits.

Note to CATV System Installer
This reminder is provided to call the CATV systems installer’s attention to Section 820-40of the NEC, which provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies
that the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the building as close
to the point of cable entry as is practical.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

Contents
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Installation Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Replacing an Existing Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
First Card for this PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Record the Serial and Part Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Uninstall the Old Driver (Windows® XP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Uninstall the Old Driver (Windows Vista™) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Install the Graphics Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Install the ATI Catalyst™ Software Suite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Display Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Configure the Display (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
ATI Radeon HD 3800 series Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Display Adapters (Optional Accessories) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Supported Display Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

CrossFire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
CrossFire Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
CrossFire Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Install CrossFire Graphics Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Enabling CrossFire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
CrossFire Display Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Troubleshooting CrossFire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Change Motherboard BIOS Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Use Graphics Cards with Different Amounts of Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Card Reversal Recommended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3D client is Active . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
CrossFire is Currently Unavailable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Screen Rotation is Unavailable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Video Displays Flicker During System Startup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
CrossFire Starts in Software Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
CrossFire Disabled After Swapping/Moving Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
CrossFireX™ Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Using ATI Catalyst Control Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
ATI Catalyst Control Center Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Starting the ATI Catalyst Control Center Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Accessing ATI Catalyst Control Center Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

vi

Searching the Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Graphics Card Installation Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
The computer beeps and the boot process stops. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
The computer does not boot up properly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
The computer boots up but there is no display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
HDTV/HDTV Adapter Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
International Compliance Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
FCC Compliance Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Industry Canada Compliance Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
CE Compliance Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Electrical Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
VCCI Class B ITE Compliance Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
MIC Certification Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
BSMI Certification Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

Chapter 1
Installation
For support, you will need to record the serial number and the part number forthe card before installation.

Installation Overview
The installation of the card has slightly different procedures depending onwhether you are replacing an existing card or installing a graphics card in a PC
for the first time. This section briefly describes the high-level steps for both cases.

Replacing an Existing Card
If you are replacing an existing graphics card, you need to:
1. Start the computer and then uninstall the old graphics driver.
2. Turn off the computer and then remove the old card.
3. Install the new card and then connect the monitor.
4. Start the computer and then install the new drivers and software.
5. Restart the computer.

First Card for this PC
If this is the first graphics card for this PC, you need to:
1. With the computer off, install the new card and then connect the monitor.
2. Start the computer and then install the new drivers and software.
3. Restart the computer.

Record the Serial and Part Numbers
Write down the serial number and part number before installing. The serial
number and 102 part number on the graphics card are required for registrationand free support. They are located on a sticker on the back of the card.
Figure 1–1 Sample Serial and Part Numbers
The emphasized numbers in bold are required for registration and free support.

2

Installation

Uninstall the Old Driver (Windows® XP)
Follow these steps to uninstall the existing graphics card driver in preparation
for installation of a new card.

1. With the current graphics card still in the computer, close all open
applications.

2. On the Windows taskbar, click Start ▷ Control Panel and then double-click
Add or Remove Programs.

3. Select the current graphics card driver and then click Add/Remove.
The wizard will appear and help remove the current display drivers.

4. Turn off the system after the driver has been removed.
Note: If the previously installed graphics card has any additional
software installed, this software may also need to be removed before
restarting the computer. For example, DVD Player or Multimedia
applications.

Uninstall the Old Driver (Windows Vista™)
Follow these steps to uninstall the existing graphics card driver in preparation
for installation of a new card.

1. With the current graphics card still in the computer, close all open
applications.

2. Click Start ▷ Control Panel. Double-click Programs and Features and thenselect the graphics card driver from the list of software programs.

3. Double-click Hardware and Sound and then double-click Device Manager.
4. Expand Display Adapter and then right-click the driver for the graphics card
you are replacing.

5. In the shortcut menu that appears, click Install.
The driver for the old graphics card is uninstalled.

6. Turn off the system.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

3

First Card for this PC

Install the Graphics Card
1. Turn off the computer, monitor, and other peripheral devices.
2. Unplug the computer power cord and disconnect the monitor cable from theback panel of the computer.

Caution:To avoid possible damage to the motherboard, wait approximately 20
seconds after unplugging the power cord before disconnecting aperipheral or removing a component from the motherboard .

3. Remove the computer cover.
Caution:
Remember to discharge your body’s static electricity by touching thepower supply or the metal surface of the computer chassis.
Tip: If necessary, consult the computer manual for help in removing thecover.

4. Remove any existing graphics card from the computer.
5. Locate the appropriate bus slot and, if necessary, remove the corresponding
back panel cover.

Note: If you cannot find a bus slot to match your card, you need agraphics card with the correct bus to match your motherboard.

6. Align the graphics card with the slot and firmly press it in until the card isfully seated.

7. If applicable, connect the internal power cable to the power connection on
the graphics card.

© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00

4Installation

1

Graphics card

2

Power supply

3

Power cable connector (from power supply)

4

Graphics card power connection

5

Power connector to graphics card

6

Power cable from power supply

8. Fasten the graphics card securely to the back panel.
9. Make sure the cables are not interfering with anything inside the computer(for example, a cooling fan) and then replace the computer cover.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

5

Configure the Display (Optional)

10. Reconnect any cables you have disconnected and plug in the computer
power cord.

11. Turn on the monitor and then the computer.

The computer should start normally and the software must be installed next.

Install the ATI Catalyst™ Software Suite
To install or remove software, you must have administrator rights or be logged
on as a user with administrator rights.
Note: The installation dialog displays in English if the operating system’s
language is not supported.
Software is provided to both operate and take advantage of all the features of thegraphics card, including:• Driver.
• ATI Catalyst™ Control Center.
• HydraVision™ (included in the custom install).
• SurroundView™ software (included in the custom install).
• ATI Avivo™ video converter software (included in the custom install).

1. Insert the Installation CD-ROM.
Note: If the install wizard does not start, navigate to the CD drive anddouble-click ATISETUP.exe.

2. Follow the on-screen instructions and then select either Express or Custom
Install.
Not all software components are installed using the Express installation.
Custom installation allows you to select individual software components for
installation.

Tip: If the installer fails to install the driver, or you have a software conflict, you
can download the latest software from ati.amd.com/support/driver.html andthen install it.

Display Configuration
This section describes how to configure the display and lists the available display
connections.

Configure the Display (Optional)
If you are not experiencing any troubles with the display, no adjustments arenecessary.

© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00

6Installation

1. Right-click on the desktop and, in the shortcut that appears, click
Properties.
The Display Properties dialog appears.

2. Click the Settings tab and then select the screen resolution and color depththat best suit your requirements and the display’s performance.

3. Click Advanced and then select the Monitor tab.
4. Choose a refresh rate from the drop-down list.
Caution:Choosing a refresh rate unsupported by the display may damage it. Consult
the display’s documentation if necessary.

5. Click OK.
Once you have configured the main display you can configure any otherdisplays that are connected.

6. To configure another display, do the following:a. Right-click on the desktop and, in the shortcut that appears, click
Properties.

Note: The ATI Catalyst Control Center software can also enable
and configure multiple monitors.

b. To access the basic multi-monitor configuration settings, click the
Settings tab.

c. Select the monitor icon identified by the number 2.
Note: When using multiple monitors with the graphics card, onemonitor will always be the primary display, additional monitors
will be designated as secondary.

d. Click Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor.
e. Set the Screen Resolution and Color Quality as appropriate for thesecond monitor.

f. Click OK.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series Connections
The following figure illustrates the typical connections on the ATI Radeon HD 3800
series graphics card. Available connections may vary between models.
Figure 1–2 ATI Radeon HD 3800 series Connections

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

7

Display Adapters (Optional Accessories)

1

DVI-I Dual Link connection (It provides audio and video digital signals
and HDMI™ output that is compatible with most HDMI devices.)2

TV out3

DVI-I Dual Link connection (It provides audio and video digital signals
and HDMI output that is compatible with most HDMI devices.)

Display Adapters (Optional Accessories)
The following illustrates the adapters you can use to connect the graphics card toother display devices not directly supported by the connection types available on
the graphics card.
Adapter

Description
DVI-to-VGA

DVI-to-HDMI
The HDMI adapter is a proprietary adapter manufactured and soldby approved manufacturers (like Wieson Technologies Co., Ltd.)
that has a specific detection mechanism to allow properly
configured graphics cards to pass HDMI signals through a DVI
connection to an HDMI compliant device.
7-pin HDTV output cable

Supported Display Connections
To ensure the highest possible performance, only one display device is supported
when CrossFire™ is active. When CrossFire is active, other display devices
connected to the other connections on both graphics cards are rendered inactive.
If additional displays are required when CrossFire is active, use either
SurroundView (included on the installation CD, custom software install), or an
additional graphics card.
The graphics card provides hardware support for DVI-I and VGA monitors, andHDMI HDTVs (using a DVI-to-HDMI adapter). It also provides TV output.

© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00

8Installation

Table 1–1 Display Configurations (CrossFire Inactive)
Display

Connections

CRT analog
display

DVI-I connection and DVI-I-to-VGA adapter

LCD digitalmonitor• DVI-I connection and DVI cableTV• DVI connection and DVI-to-HDTV adapter and RCA cables• DVI-I connection and DVI-I-to-VGA adapter• 7-pin HDTV output cableHDTV display• DVI connection and DVI cable• DVI connection and DVI-to-HDTV adapter and RCA cables• 7-pin HDTV output cable and RCA cables

HDMI HDTV

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00• DVI connection and DVI-to-HDMI adapter and HDMI cable© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

Chapter 2
CrossFire
CrossFire Introduction
CrossFire technology allows a pair of graphics cards to be used in a single
computer to improve display performance, creating a high-performance gaming
platform. CrossFire works with all 3D games and applications.
Performance enhancements experienced on a CrossFire system depend on theapplication or game being used. Performance improvements of up to 100% havebeen recorded. The latest graphics-intensive programs will generally see over
80% performance improvement at high resolutions and high image-quality
modes. If ATI Catalyst™ A.I. is enabled in the ATI Catalyst Control Center
software, the optimal rendering mode available for the application is
automatically selected.

CrossFire Requirements
The requirements of a CrossFire system are:
• A CrossFire-ready motherboard.
• Two CrossFire-ready graphics cards.
• CrossFire connections for card-to-card communications (come with yourcards)In addition, a 550 watt or better power supply is recommended.

For an up-to-date listing of CrossFire certified motherboards and power supplies,
and CrossFire configurations, see ati.amd.com/products/certification
Note: A second CrossFire interconnect cable is required to support 3D
resolutions above 2560 × 1600 at 60 Hz for LCD monitors and 2048 × 1536 at
66 Hz for CRT monitors.

Install CrossFire Graphics Cards
These instructions assume that a PCIe® graphics card has already beensuccessfully installed in the secondary slot (slot one), and that the primary slot
(slot zero) is empty.
Note: Consult your system builder or OEM to ensure that your system hasan adequate power supply. A 550 watt or greater power supply isrecommended.
For an up-to-date listing of CrossFire certified motherboards, see ati.amd.com/
products/certification

10

CrossFire

1. Make sure the computer, monitor, and other peripheral devices are off.
2. Unplug the computer power cord and disconnect the monitor cable from theback panel of the computer.

Caution:To avoid possible damage to the motherboard, wait approximately 20
seconds after unplugging the power cord before disconnecting aperipheral or removing a component from the motherboard.

3. Remove the computer cover.
If necessary, consult the computer manual for help removing the cover.
Caution:
Remember to discharge your body’s static electricity by touching thepower supply case or the metal surface of the computer chassis.

4. Remove any existing graphics cards from the computer.
Warning:
Some graphics cards can get hot while operating. Wait approximately fiveminutes after turning off the computer before touching the card.

5. Locate the PCIe slots on the motherboard. If necessary, remove thecorresponding back panel cover.

6. Align the new graphics card in the secondary PCIe slot next to the existinggraphics card and press firmly until the card is fully seated.

7. If using a 3-card configuration, align the third graphics card in the third

PCIe slot next to the existing graphics card and press firmly until the card isfully seated.

8. Remove protection tags from the ends of the CrossFire interconnects andconnect the cards.

Caution:
Always handle the CrossFire bridge interconnects by the connector only.
Do not push or pull on the flexible cable.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

11

Figure 2–1 CrossFire Bridge Interconnect Protection Tag

Figure 2–2 CrossFire Installation

1

Power supply

2

CrossFire graphics cards

3Interconnect

9. Connect the power supply to the cards.
10. Fasten the graphics cards securely to the back panel.

© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00

12CrossFire

11. Make sure the cables are not interfering with anything inside the computer(for example, a cooling fan) and then replace the computer cover.

12. Reconnect any cables you have disconnected and plug in the computer
power cord.

13. Turn on the monitor and then the computer.
You now need to enable CrossFire in ATI Catalyst Control Center.

Enabling CrossFire
1. From the Graphics Settings tree, click CrossFire™.
2. From the Graphics Adapter list, select the graphics card that acts as the
Master VPU.

3. Select the Enable CrossFire™ check box.
4. If your system has more than two CrossFire-capable graphics cards, theSelecting a Slave GPU dialog appears where you must select the graphics
card that will partner with the Master GPU.
Note: Enabling CrossFire for the selected graphics card automaticallydisables GPU Accelerated Physics for that same card.
Note: When CrossFire is successfully enabled, all display devices,
except the one used by CrossFire, will be disabled.

CrossFire Display Configurations
Display support is available through only one display device when CrossFire is
active. This arrangement ensures the best performance. If additional displays are
required when CrossFire is active, use either ATI SurroundView (included in the
Custom install options on the installation CD) or an additional graphics card.
While CrossFire is designed for optimal use on a single display, it is possible todrive multiple monitors using a CrossFire system when CrossFire is not enabled.
On a standard CrossFire system, it is possible to drive four separate monitors andstill have one of those displays as a dedicated CrossFire display. You can add more
displays if the motherboard contains an integrated video connection and ATISurroundView is enabled.

Troubleshooting CrossFire
Change Motherboard BIOS Settings
Some motherboards may have a system BIOS option to switch between single ordual PCIe slot support. The default setting may be single slot support.
Refer to the motherboard’s manual for information to enable dual PCIe-™ slot
support.
For more information see the CrossFire Web page at:

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

13

Use Graphics Cards with Different Amounts of Memory

ati.amd.com/crossfire

Use Graphics Cards with Different Amounts of Memory
In some CrossFire configurations, graphics card with different amounts ofmemory can by used. However, restarting your computer is required after
enabling CrossFire. This will cause CrossFire to reduce the amount of memoryon the card with the most amount of memory to match the memory size of thegraphics card with the least amount of memory.
Clicking OK to the memory mismatch error message will restart your computer.
Note: When disabling CrossFire you will be given the option to restart yourcomputer to restore the original graphics memory size or continue withthe reduced memory size.

Card Reversal Recommended
A recommendation message to reverse the graphics card positions may appear
if the master graphics card is not installed into the primary PCIe slot. Although
CrossFire can be enabled, performance may be improved by reversing thegraphics cards in the computer.
See your motherboard’s manual to determine which is the primary PCIe slot.

3D client is Active
You will not be able to start CrossFire if a 3D application, game, or video playback,such as a DVD movie, is running.
Close all open 3D applications, games, and movie player applications, and thenenable CrossFire.

CrossFire is Currently Unavailable
This error has occurred because CrossFire did not correctly detect your graphics
hardware or there is a problem with the software.
• Check the graphics card are installed correctly.
• Check the interconnect cable is installed correctly.
• Close all running 3D applications.
• Re-install the ATI Catalyst Control Center.

Screen Rotation is Unavailable
Screen rotation function does not work or is unavailable.
Screen rotation is not an available feature on CrossFire systems.

Video Displays Flicker During System Startup
This is normal during CrossFire start-up.

© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00

14CrossFire

CrossFire Starts in Software Mode
This is normal when starting up for the first time after installing two CrossFire
graphics cards if neither card is installed in the primary PCI Express® slot. You
can change the CrossFire mode in the ATI Catalyst Control Center.

CrossFire Disabled After Swapping/Moving Cards
If you change the CrossFire configuration by moving the graphics cards todifferent slots on the motherboard, disable CrossFire in
ATI Catalyst Control Center first. Once the cards have been swapped, enable
CrossFire. This ensures the new configuration is detected by the computer.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

Chapter 3
Reference
The following section offers troubleshooting tips and provides customer care,warranty, and compliance information.

System Requirements
HardwareMinimum requirements are:• Motherboard with one PCIe ×16 lane graphics slot.
• AMD Athlon™ or Intel® Pentium® 4 CPU.
• 1 GB RAM.
• CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive for installing software.
• A 450 watt or better power supply with 75 Watt 6-pin PCIe power connector.

For a list of certified power supplies, see ati.amd.com/certifiedpsu.

CrossFireX™ Requirements
To implement a CrossFireX™ configuration using the ATI Radeon HD 3800 seriesrequires:• A CrossFireX certified motherboard.
• A second CrossFireX graphics card compatible with the ATI Radeon HD 3800

series. A third card may be installed, if desired.
• One CrossFire internal bridge interconnect per additional board (included).
• A PCIe 750 watt or greater power supply designed to accommodate agraphics card with a peak dissipation above 150 watts. Consult thecomputer's documentation to verify.
• For an up-to-date listing of CrossFireX certified motherboards, see
ati.amd.com/products/certification.
• For an up-to-date listing of certified power supplies, see ati.amd.com/
certifiedpsu.

Using ATI Catalyst Control Center
ATI Catalyst Control Center Overview
The ATI Catalyst Control Center software provides access to the display featuresof the graphics card. Use the software to fine-tune graphics settings, enable ordisable connected display devices, and change the orientation of the desktop.
Many features display previews of the changes before they are applied.

16

Reference

A simplified view of the features that includes wizards to quickly
make changes.
Advanced View
A powerful interface that enables complete configuration of thefeature set of the graphics card.
The ATI Catalyst Control Center software can be customized for easy access tothe most-used features.
Basic View

For information on the individual features of the software, access thecomprehensive in-program help system (see Accessing Help or visit the AMD
Customer Care Web site at http://ati.amd.com/).

Starting the ATI Catalyst Control Center Software
The following table shows the ways you can start the
ATI Catalyst Control Center software:
Table 3–1 ATI Catalyst Control Center Access Routes
Access RouteWindows Desktop

Instructions
1. Right-click anywhere on the desktop.
2. From the shortcut menu that appears, click ATI
CATALYST(R) Control Center.

Windows Start
Menu

1. Click Start on the Windows task bar.

Windows System
Tray

1. Right-click the ATI icon in the Windows System Tray.

Desktop Shortcut

When you first installed the ATI Catalyst Control Center,the setup wizard provided you with the option of placing
a shortcut on the desktop. If you chose this option, you candouble-click the ATI Catalyst Control Center desktop
shortcut.

Predefined Hot
Keys

Press the predefined hot keys, Ctrl+Alt+C, to launch
ATI Catalyst Control Center. You can also define your own
hot key sequence by using the
ATI Catalyst Control Center Hotkey Manager.

2. Select All Programs ▷ Catalyst Control Center.
2. From the short menu, select ATI Catalyst Control
Center.

Accessing ATI Catalyst Control Center Help
ATI Catalyst Control Center Help provides information on the features andconcepts of your ATI Radeon graphics card. You can also use the
ATI Catalyst Control Center Help feature to access usage information, generate aproblem report, and get software version information for your graphics card.

1. Open ATI Catalyst Control Center in the Advanced view.
2. Choose one of the following options:➭ Press the F1 key at any time to get specific help on the currently
displayed information.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

17

Searching the Help

➭ From the ATI Catalyst Control Center Dashboard, choose Help ▷ Help
Contents to browse the entire help contents.

➭ From the ATI Catalyst Control Center Dashboard, choose Help ▷ Search
Help to search the help contents for a specific term.

➭ To access AMD's Web site, from the ATI Catalyst Control Center
Dashboard, choose Help ▷ Go to ATI.com.

Searching the Help
1. In Advanced view, click Help in the Dashboard.
2. Click Search Help.
3. Enter the word(s) you wish to search for the in search box of the
ATI Catalyst Control Center Help.

4. Click Go.

Graphics Card Installation Troubleshooting Tips
For more advanced troubleshooting information, contact AMD Customer Carefor ATI products at ati.amd.com.

The computer beeps and the boot process stops.
Make certain that the graphics card is properly connected to the internal power
supply and the motherboard.

The computer does not boot up properly.
Verify that the installation instructions were followed correctly.
Make certain that the graphics card is properly connected to the power supply
and the motherboard.
If using Windows operating system, restart your computer in Safe Mode. For
information on Safe Mode, consult the Windows documentation.
Check the system configuration utility for interrupt assignments.

The computer boots up but there is no display.
Verify that the monitor is connected properly to the computer and a power
supply.
If your motherboard has on-board graphics capabilities, you may need to disable
them. Consult your motherboard documentation for more information.
Note: Some manufacturers do not allow the on-board graphics to bedisabled or to become the secondary display.

© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00

18Reference

HDTV/HDTV Adapter Troubleshooting
For more advanced troubleshooting information, contact AMD Customer Carefor ATI products at ati.amd.com.
Table 3–2 HDTV/HDTV Adapter Troubleshooting Tips
ProblemPossible Solution

The colors on the Ensure that the connections between the component video
TV display are
adapter and the HDTV are correct.
incorrect.
There is no
The TV will not display anything until Windows starts; thisdisplay on the TV. may take several minutes.
Make sure the TV is set to YPbPr input.
Make sure that the HDTV component video adapter isproperly connected.
DVDs will notplay in highquality modes.

Copy-protected DVDs restrict playback to 480i and 480p
modes.

The entire
display is not
visible.

If the component input device supports it, try 720p mode.

The display
appears tilted.

Consult the HDTV documentation.

The CRT display
is green.

The system is in component output mode. Restart thecomputer with the CRT monitor connected.

Customer Care
For detailed instructions on how to use your ATI product, refer to the User’s
Guide included on the installation CD.
To activate Customer Care, you must register your product at ati.amd.com/
online/registration.
If you require further assistance with your product, the following Customer Care
options are available:

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

19

FCC Compliance Information

Service

Availability

Language

AccessOnline ormail

24 hours a day

English,French,Spanishati.amd.com/support

Telephone

Monday to Thursday: 9:00
a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

English

1-877-284-1566 (tollfree)orUS &CanadaFriday: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Note: AMD reserves
the right to change
hours of support. For
more information,please refer to
ati.amd.com/support/
terms.

orAdvanced Micro
Devices, Inc., Graphics
Product Group,
Attention: Customer
Care, 1 Commerce
Valley Drive East,
Markham, Ontario,
Canada L3T 7X6

1-905-882-2626 (Canada)(International and/or
local toll charges to
Canada will apply).

AMD Customer Care for Graphics Products will work to resolve your issue andhelp you to get your ATI product up and running. If your issue is not resolved,
our technicians will determine whether the difficulty you are experiencing is theresult of the ATI product, whether your product contains a defect, and whether
your product is under warranty.
• AMD Customer Care is unable to assist with refunds, returns, or exchange-

specific inquiries. If resolving the problem being experienced is critical toyour decision to keep the product, it is your responsibility to ensure that you
know and are within the period of time your reseller will allow for refunds,
returns, or exchange.
• AMD is not responsible for any expense incurred accessing Customer Care.
It is expected that customers will review the expense associated with theavailable support options and will choose the method that best meets theirneeds and budget.
• AMD Customer Care reserves the right to limit support options for productsthat are not registered or are reaching end of life.

International Compliance Information
This section details the worldwide compliance information for this product,
which is manufactured to be compliant in the regions where it is sold.

FCC Compliance Information
This product complies with FCC Rules part 15. Operation is subject to thefollowing conditions:© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00

20Reference• This device may not cause harmful interference.
• This device must accept any interference received, including interference

that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed toprovide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with manufacturer's
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particularinstallation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off andon, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of thefollowing measures:• Re-orient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which

the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

The use of shielded cables for connection of the monitor to the graphics card isrequired to ensure compliance with FCC regulations. Changes or modifications
to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could
void the user's authority to operate this equipment.
Complies with FCC 15.107, 15.109, 15.111, and 15.117.
For further compliance information:
Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
62 Forest Street
Marlborough, MA 01752
USA Tel: 508-303-3900

Industry Canada Compliance Statement
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003 and with BETS-7,
Section 3.6.
Cet appareil numérique de la Classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du
Canada, et NTMR-7, Section 3.6.

CE Compliance Information
EMC Directive 2004/108/EC CISPR 22:2003 +A1:2004/EN 55022:1998 +A1:2000+A2:2003—Class B: Limits and methods of measurement of radio disturbancecharacteristics of Information Technology Equipment. CISPR24:1997/EN
55024:1998 +A1:2001 and +A2:2003—Information Technology Equipment—
Immunity Characteristics—Limits and Methods of Measurements

Electrical Safety
Europe: The Low Voltage Directive—2006/95/EC EN 60950-1, 1st edition—Safety ofInformation Technology Equipment
ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

21

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive Compliance

USA/Canada:• UL 60950-1, 1st edition, 2006-07-07 (Information Technology Equipment—

Safety—Part 1: General Requirements)• CSA C22.2 No. 60950-1-03, 1st edition, 2006-07 (Information Technology
Equipment—Safety—Part 1: General Requirements)
To meet UL safety requirements, the computer’s maximum room temperature
should not exceed 40 °C.

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
ComplianceThis product was manufactured by Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

VCCI Class B ITE Compliance Information

MIC Certification Information"Class B" Equipment (Household purpose info/telecommunications equipment)© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00

22Reference

As this equipment has undergone EMC registration for household purpose, thisproduct can be used in any area including residential area.

BSMI Certification Information

ATI Radeon HD 3800 series
P/N 037-41424-00© 2007 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.