1. Introduction and Overview
The PNY NVIDIA Quadro 6000 is a professional graphics solution designed for demanding visual computing applications. It features 6 GB of GDDR5 graphics memory and 448 NVIDIA CUDA parallel processing cores, built on the NVIDIA Fermi architecture. This graphics card is engineered to accelerate performance across a wide range of design, animation, and video applications, supporting computationally intensive tasks such as ray tracing, video processing, and computational fluid dynamics.
The Quadro 6000 supports DirectX 11.0, OpenGL 4.1, and Shader Model 5.0 hardware acceleration, and is compatible with various display types including CRTs, Digital Flat Panels, Projectors, and HDTVs.
2. Features and Benefits
- Next-Generation NVIDIA CUDA Architecture: Incorporates parallel computing capabilities and advanced visualization for accelerated professional workflows.
- Error Correcting Code (ECC) Memory: Ensures computing accuracy and reliability for mission-critical applications by protecting data in memory.
- NVIDIA Scalable Geometry Engine: Improves geometry performance for CAD, DCC, and medical applications, allowing interaction with complex models.
- Fast 64-Bit Floating Point Precision: Delivers high-speed double precision floating point performance for accurate results in critical applications like computer-aided design and finite element analysis.
- NVIDIA GigaThread Engine: Provides faster context switching and concurrent kernel execution.
- Dual Copy Engines: Enables high rates of parallel data processing and concurrent throughput between the GPU and host, beneficial for ray tracing and physical simulation.
- Full-Scene Antialiasing (FSAA): Up to 64X FSAA reduces visual artifacts for improved image quality.
- GPU Tessellation with Shader Model 5.0: Automatically generates detailed geometry for cinematic quality environments.
- 16K Texture and Render Processing: Supports texturing from and rendering to 16K x 16K surfaces for high-resolution image processing.
- NVIDIA High Precision High Dynamic Range (HDR) Technology: Enhances image clarity and quality through floating point capabilities in shading, filtering, texturing, and blending.
- High-Quality Display Connectors: Supports ultra-high-resolution digital panels. The Quadro 6000 simultaneously supports two active display channels including DVI-DL and DisplayPort at resolutions up to 2560 x 1600 at 60Hz.
- 3D Stereo Synchronization: Enables robust control of stereo effects via a dedicated 3-pin mini-DIN connector and supports NVIDIA's 3D Vision Pro.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are included in your product package:
- NVIDIA Quadro 6000 by PNY professional graphics board
- DVI to VGA adapter
- DisplayPort to DVI adapter
- Two 6-pin auxiliary power connection cables
- Driver CD (for Windows 7, Vista, XP) with PDF documentation
- Printed Quick Install Guide
Image: Top view of the NVIDIA Quadro 6000 graphics card, showing the cooling shroud and NVIDIA Quadro branding.
4. Minimum System Requirements
Before installing the NVIDIA Quadro 6000 graphics card, ensure your system meets the following minimum requirements:
- Operating System: Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP SP3, Linux, or Solaris
- PCIe x16 expansion slot
- System Memory: 1GB or more (2GB recommended)
- Disk Space: 200MB of available disk space for full driver installation
- Optical Drive: Blu-ray, DVD-ROM, or CD-ROM drive for driver installation (alternatively, drivers can be downloaded)
- Display: DisplayPort, DVI, or VGA compatible display(s)
5. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to properly install your NVIDIA Quadro 6000 graphics card:
- Preparation:
- Power down your computer and unplug all power cables.
- Open your computer case.
- If replacing an existing graphics card, carefully remove it.
- Insert the Graphics Card:
- Locate an available PCIe x16 slot on your motherboard.
- Align the graphics card with the slot and press down firmly until it is securely seated. Ensure the retention clip (if present) locks into place.
- Connect Power Cables:
- Connect the two 6-pin auxiliary power connection cables from your power supply to the corresponding ports on the graphics card.
- Secure the Card:
- Secure the graphics card to the computer case with the retaining screw or clip.
- Close Case and Connect Display:
- Close your computer case and reconnect all power cables.
- Connect your display monitor(s) to the DVI-I DL, DisplayPort, or Stereo connectors on the graphics card. Use the provided adapters (DVI to VGA, DisplayPort to DVI) if necessary.
- Install Drivers:
- Power on your computer.
- Insert the provided Driver CD into your optical drive and follow the on-screen instructions to install the NVIDIA Quadro drivers. Alternatively, download the latest drivers from the official NVIDIA website for optimal performance and compatibility.
Image: Angled view of the NVIDIA Quadro 6000 graphics card, highlighting the cooling solution and overall form factor.
6. Operating Instructions
Once the drivers are installed, your NVIDIA Quadro 6000 graphics card is ready for operation. The NVIDIA Control Panel, installed with the drivers, allows you to configure various display and performance settings.
- Display Configuration: Use the NVIDIA Control Panel to set display resolutions, refresh rates, and configure multiple monitors.
- Application Settings: Optimize graphics settings for specific professional applications (CAD, DCC, video editing) through the NVIDIA Control Panel to achieve the best performance and visual quality.
- CUDA Applications: Leverage the CUDA parallel processing cores with compatible applications for accelerated computing tasks.
- 3D Stereo: If using 3D stereo hardware, configure it through the NVIDIA Control Panel for synchronized 3D effects.
Image: Rear view of the NVIDIA Quadro 6000 graphics card, displaying the DVI-I DL, two DisplayPort, and stereo connectors.
7. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your graphics card:
- Driver Updates: Regularly check the official NVIDIA website for the latest driver updates. Keeping drivers current can improve performance, stability, and compatibility with new software.
- Dust Removal: Periodically clean dust from the graphics card's heatsink and fan using compressed air. Ensure the computer is powered off and unplugged before cleaning. Accumulation of dust can hinder cooling and lead to overheating.
- Airflow: Ensure adequate airflow within your computer case. Keep the case free from obstructions and ensure case fans are functioning correctly to prevent heat buildup.
Image: Back view of the NVIDIA Quadro 6000 graphics card, revealing the printed circuit board (PCB) and the large heatsink covering the GPU and memory components.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your NVIDIA Quadro 6000 graphics card, refer to the following troubleshooting tips:
- No Display Output:
- Ensure the monitor is correctly connected to the graphics card and powered on.
- Verify that the graphics card is fully seated in the PCIe slot and auxiliary power cables are securely connected.
- Check if your monitor input source is set correctly.
- Try connecting to a different display port on the card or a different monitor if available.
- Driver Installation Issues:
- Download the latest drivers directly from the official NVIDIA website.
- Uninstall any previous graphics drivers using a driver uninstaller utility before attempting a fresh installation.
- Ensure your operating system is up to date.
- System Instability or Crashes:
- Ensure your power supply unit (PSU) meets the minimum wattage requirements for your system, including the graphics card. The Quadro 6000 has a maximum power consumption of 204 W.
- Check for overheating. Monitor GPU temperatures using third-party software. Ensure proper case airflow and clean the card's cooling system.
- Verify that the graphics card is not overclocked, or reset any overclocking settings to default.
- Poor Performance in Applications:
- Ensure you have the latest drivers installed.
- Check application-specific graphics settings.
- Verify that the application is utilizing the dedicated NVIDIA Quadro GPU and not integrated graphics (if applicable).
9. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Frame Buffer Memory | 6 GB GDDR5 |
| Memory Interface | 384-bit |
| Memory Bandwidth | 144 GB/s |
| CUDA Parallel Processing Cores | 448 |
| ECC (Error Correcting Code) | Yes |
| High Performance Double Precision | Yes |
| Max Power Consumption | 204 W |
| Energy Star Compliant | Yes |
| Physical Dimensions | 4.376" H x 9.75" L (Double Slot) |
| Display Connectors | DVI-I DL (1), DisplayPort (2), Stereo (1) |
| Number of Displays Supported | 2 |
| Graphics Bus | PCI Express 2.0 x16 |
| Thermal Solution | Active |
| 3D Vision Pro Support | Via 3-pin mini-DIN |
| PNY Part # | VCQ6000-PB |
10. Warranty and Support
PNY provides a 3-year warranty for the NVIDIA Quadro 6000 graphics board. For technical assistance, pre-sales, and post-sales support, PNY offers dedicated Quadro Field Application engineers and direct technical support hotlines. Please refer to the official PNY website or the documentation included in your package for specific contact information and warranty claim procedures.
For the most up-to-date support resources, visit the PNY Store on Amazon or the official PNY website.
