Just to add to the mix, the cards that have been modded most successfully are the 2gig. versions. Myztikrice a card can be prevented from being modified by altering the gpu itself ("laser cut is one way), changing the connections on the printed circuit board, and in the bios chip by adding instructions that make the bios the one and only the card will accept. More cards have been bricked by using a 6970 bios than by using a 6950 bios. As I said before they are different cards and unlocking the shaders does not make a 6950 a 6970. There have been loads of people who tried to flash the bios and did everything correctly and the card bricked. My suggestion to you given your questions and constant wondering is that if you want a 6970 buy it. You seem to me to be one of those people who will end up bricked and very unhappy.