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Difference between revisions of "Glossary:Graphics card"

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(Created page with "The GPU (Graphics Processing Unit, also known as a graphics card) is the processor that creates the images within your game for output to a screen. == GPU Manufacturers =...")
 
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== Multi-GPU ==
 
== Multi-GPU ==
 
Some GPUs can be used in tandem with another GPU to boost the overall output of the cards. With Nvidia cards this technique is called [[SLI]], with ATi cards it is called [[Crossfire]].
 
Some GPUs can be used in tandem with another GPU to boost the overall output of the cards. With Nvidia cards this technique is called [[SLI]], with ATi cards it is called [[Crossfire]].
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[[Category:Hardware]]

Revision as of 01:59, 11 February 2012

The GPU (Graphics Processing Unit, also known as a graphics card) is the processor that creates the images within your game for output to a screen.

GPU Manufacturers

The three main GPU makers are Nvidia, ATi(AMD), and Intel. Nvidia have the GeForce(gaming) and Quadro(workstation) line of cards, ATi the Radeon(gaming) and FireGL(Workstation) line, and Intel have GMA, Graphics Media Accelerator, line of chips.

Identifying your Graphics Card

Using dxdiag (Windows Vista/7)
  1. Type 'dxdiag' into the Start search and hit enter
  2. On the 'Display' tab it should list your Device.

For Windows XP users open the 'Run' tool from the Start menu, then type 'dxdiag' there.

Checking the physical card

Desktop users can sometimes check the model number on the card itself. This is usually on a printed sticker. Type the model number into Google and hopefully it should tell you which GPU you have.

Multi-GPU

Some GPUs can be used in tandem with another GPU to boost the overall output of the cards. With Nvidia cards this technique is called SLI, with ATi cards it is called Crossfire.