Graphics card/audio questions

[A Traveller]

Hi all.

Is anything supposed to appear onscreen if an nVidia GTX260 graphics card is connected to the motherboard without connecting the two 6-pin PCI-Express connectors from the PSU to the graphics card?

Four unrelated questions - the following manual states 'The front panel audio header supports Intel High Definition audio (HD) and AC'97 audio' on page 30.

http://download.gigabyte.eu/FileList/Manual/mb_manual_ga-890gpa-ud3h_v2.1_e.pdf

Which option provides the better quality audio?
Does it make any difference if the video isn't HD?
Does the Intel High Definition provide Dolby surround and 2/4/5.1/7.1-Channel Audio also?
Does listening via headphones affect the answers to any of the above questions?

Any advice would be very appreciated.

Thanks.

[aedipuss]

that card won't work at all without the power plugs in. but it may burn out the pci x16 slot by trying to draw too much power.

the m.b. header pins are just for connecting additional headphone mic type jacks to the front of the case. the h.d. output is already going to the back ports.

[A Traveller]

Thanks for your reply aedipuss.

The front headphone jack is what I use for my audio. Is sound better for all purposes on AC'97 or Intel High Definition audio (HD)?

Thanks.

[aedipuss]

the hd is newer and has more features. but it depends on what your computer case has for a front panel (hd or ac97 type) which you use. they are hooked up differently.

[Traveller]

Hi aedipuss. It has both an AC'97 and an HD. At the moment I have the AC'97 plug connected to the motherboard. If I want HD, I have to remove that and plug in the HD one. Thanks for your help.