Is the AGP 8X motherboard slot different from the AGP 4X motherboard slot? And if is, why did they do that. I would hate to know that I have to go buy a new video card to use the 8X, when I already have a good card.

Theoretically speaking, AGP 8x bandwidth is double that of 4x. But in real world performance, the difference is minute. Don't worry, AGP slot are backward compatible.;)
:cool:

PS: the AGP8x is more of a marketing scheme than performance increase.

There are electrical differences between the two, as well as compatibility issues. AGP 8x slots use the AGP 3.0 spec, which requires 0.8V and 1.5V to be supplied to the slot. AGP 4x uses the AGP 2.0 spec, which requires 1.5V and 3.3V. Because of the voltage differences, AGP 8x slots aren't compatible with most AGP 1x/2x cards, but of course 4x is fine. Also, the later AGP 4x slots weren't compatible with some AGP 1x/2x cards.

Older specs get no love. :p

Ok, I think I have this right. I have a verto nvidia ge force 3 video card and If I am not mistaking it is a AGP 4X card, are you guys saying that it can be used in a 8x slot? If it is then I am in good shape, I can not afford a new video card at this moment I just got canned on my job.

It should work fine. However, According to Murphy's law....

Thanks Beta.