[x82nd]

I was just wondering how hard it is on a higher end graphics card to leave it set to duplicate the screen to another monitor (or tv) all the time? I do a lot of graphic intensive gaming and would hate to burn out the card faster but it would be a nice perk to just leave it enabled if possible.

Thanks for any insight.

[BG-0]

How you use your computer, software-wise, does not make a real difference on the lifespan of the parts.
Letting it overheat severely, running on insufficient or slightly unstable power input, physically abusing it, they make a difference.

[x82nd]

Thanks BG-0, that is good to know. Overheating or abuse shouldn't be a concern as my case is a coolmaster (blowing around more hot air than Fox news) and I never overclock. I wanted to be sure as I know I have had the card make a high pitch sound occasionally when I extend my monitors to both screens (not duplicate), so I figured there was some kind of extra wear and tear.

[Mosquito555]

Originally Posted by x82nd

I wanted to be sure as I know I have had the card make a high pitch sound occasionally when I extend my monitors to both screens (not duplicate), so I figured there was some kind of extra wear and tear.

This high pitch sound you hear can be the GPU fan running at full speed. You could try removing any visible dust from the card's cooling system. This could help with both the noise and the temperatures.

Or it could be the coils on the graphics card. It's not unusual for modern (especially high end ones) graphics cards to make some noise while being stressed. That's because the coils vibrate at audible frequencies when a lot of current passes through them.

In any case, as long as your temperatures are ok, don't worry!

[jack-o-bytes]

Originally Posted by x82nd

(blowing around more hot air than Fox news)

I love that quote. I know this is no use as a post but very good comparison.