HARDWARE & SOFTWARE

Functions and characteristics


Currently, applications and programs are demanding more efficient and fast graphics cards. As a result of this requirement, more and more advanced video cards are introduced into the world of computer system.


Earlier, computer CPU was responsible for computing much of graphical data and determining what should be displayed on a monitor. This often delays the processing time. In order to tackle this problem significant improvements are made on video card technology.


The development of Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) is a primary step to meet the demand of graphical applications. AGP was meant to speed up the communication between CPU and video adapter, which helped to display high-resolution graphics quickly.


Continuing to the development, 3D graphic accelerators are developed which boost the efficiency of a computer. This kind of accelerator has usually its own processor called GPU (graphics processing unit) and memory.


A computer graphics card with these features (processor and memory) will reduce CPU burden on computing graphical calculations.


The GPU performs graphical instructions and data. It uses its own memory to store information and the settings such as color, resolution and refresh rate.


Now, Graphics accelerator is integrated on modern computers. However, current 3D video games and applications with high graphics demand, further need advanced and fast video adapter other than the on –board card.


For example, My Dell GX620 Optiplex computer has Intel(R) 82945G Express Chipset Family graphics accelerator with 224MB memory size. If I want to run high graphical applications, I should install a card on PCI slot that satisfies the requirement.


Conclusion


Generally, a computer graphics card with high speed memory and processor will benefit a user to run graphical data easily and quickly. This will dictates the factors behind high-end graphics card.


Normally, the on-board graphics card is ideal for all applications except 3D video games and Graphics applications.