Enabling external graphics on G45

[obeseotron]

I just got a new G45 mobo (Asus P5Q-EM) that I'll be using for an HTPC. In the long run I hope to just use the GMA 4500HD for video, but after some headaches getting Linux running on it I dropped in a Geforce 8600GT (note this isn't a linux question).

Anyway, I thought installing something into the PEG x16 slot would take precedence over the integrated graphics automatically, but that didn't happen - BIOS output still goes to the G45. I tried adjusting the "initialize first" graphics setting in the BIOS, but even when I choose to use PEG first and PCI second (or vice versa) the output defaults to the G45. Is there some setting I'm missing? I can't find anything in the mobo manual about a jumper or something like that.

Thanks

edit: fixed typo in model number of mobo

 

[AsusGuy]

Check for BIOS settings for a name like "Integrated Devices" and see if you can disable integrated graphics from there.

 

[obeseotron]

No dice, there isn't an option to disable it there. I do see some options under chipset configuration, but I only see options for enabled 32mb, enabled 64mb and enabled 128mb, no option to disable.

 

[tcsenter]

Plug monitor into PCI Express card instead of integrated port. Reset CMOS/BIOS.

 

[OCChronic]

Sometimes, for whatever reason, the PCI-E card isn't seted properly and the slot doesn't initialize upon booting and therfore the BIOS does not detect a graphics card installed and defaults to on board graphics. Try re-seating the card physically and reboot. If that dosn't work, you may have a faulty baord and need to RMA it. These are the basics but I can't think of any other reasons for your dillemma.

Hope this helps. =)

 

[obeseotron]

I tried all of those suggestions with no luck. I've probably built hundreds of PCs in my time, but my only real experience with adding a graphics card to a board with onboard video was installing video cards for a ton of work desktops, most of them based on the q35 chipset. No extra steps were required, just booting the PC with a card installed was enough. I'll reread the manual again, I suppose...

 

[tcsenter]

Looks like there may be a BIOS issue with this board, based on several similar complaints at ASUS Forums involving NVIDIA graphic cards. Check in the BIOS for an option named 'PEG Force x1' or similar. If present, make sure its set to Disable.

 

[OCChronic]

Heyya, =)

I knew these were obvious suggestions to a seasoned pro but you have to start somewhere. I'm sorry it didn't solve your dillemma. It sounds like a BIOS glitch of some kind and the board is not switching to the discrete card. You need to send the baord back for RMA.

 

[taltamir]

i had a similar problem (for a different board), but setting it to PEG first solved it. Sounds like you have a broken board (or broken video card)... you did plug it all the power cords necessary right?