Best way to get more out of an ATI X850 Pro AGP?

[Dizman7]

Well I just got this today and I'm at work so I haven't got to use it yet (you can read why I had to get it here http://forums.techpowerup.com/showthread.php?p=57250#post57250

So I have a new ATI X850 Pro AGP and a new Zalman VF700-Cu LED. I'm not new to building computers but Iam new to videocard modding. I did a little overclocking using ATITool with my X800Pro but it was in short burst as I didn't want to risk melting it with stock fan, though after a couple hours I still had no problems.

I'm wonder how I should go about getting more out of it. I've read a bit about the pixel pipelines, should I flash just x850Pro w/16 pls or flash x850xtpe or overclocking or both, I'm not sure the exact combo of things to do other than install the new heatsink and fan and eventually overclock.

Another question is should I install the Zalman now or wait till I "break it in" first as it is a brand new card, still in the box in my car as I'm here at work

 

[loco]

install the Zalman flash the x850Pro w/16 and use atitool to oc.

 

[noneed4me2]

make sure you check your fuses against the ones in the fuses thread that will save you from flashing if it isn't necessary. If the best buy you got it from had those on the shelf awhile your chances are better it will mod. Good luck, oh and for the record theres nothing wrong with agp its just that the manufacturers no longer want to support it which is wierd considering there is still a huge market for it, I mean its not like its the old pci bus or ISA. With the card you got you should be good for awhile, even with pci/e card i got i am sure i will still be forced to upgrade to an sm3 card before to long.