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Computer graphics and video cards: Enhancing Your Visual Experience
Modern desktop computers and laptops are equipped with graphics and video cards as standard. They convert the computer data into graphic data that can be read by the monitor. This card allows the usual computer use: you can play videos, view photos and use your office software. If you want to use more demanding graphics programs or computer games, it is worth getting a new and more powerful graphics card.
When should you upgrade your graphics card and buy a new one?
There are various indications that suggest a graphics card is too weak. If video or graphics applications do not build images smoothly or display them incorrectly, a new card may be needed. A powerful graphics card is also required if you connect a large screen that is designed to display high-resolution images.
It is important that the structural conditions of your computer allow the installation of a new card. Modern graphics cards require a PCI Express interface that is physically accessible. Sometimes the mainboard has been installed in such a way that the intended graphics card can no longer be accommodated. You should measure this beforehand. It is also important that your computer can supply the power for the new graphics card. Not all power supplies are designed for such loads.
What type of graphics card do you need?
In general, there are three different user groups for graphics and video cards, each with their own requirements.
- Integrated graphics cards: These are permanently installed on the main board and designed for typical home computer use. They can easily handle viewing simple videos and photos.
- Professional business graphics cards: These primarily focus on high-contrast colour reproduction, which architects, for example, need for CAD programs. Since a lot of data has to be converted into graphical representations here, a normal home office computer quickly reaches its limits.
- Gaming graphics cards: These place high demands on the graphics card, as high-resolution images have to be processed quickly. Gamer PCs have interchangeable graphics card slots.
How much RAM does the graphics card have?
Since graphics cards require a lot of RAM, the models are now equipped with their own RAM modules. This relieves the computer's RAM. How much is actually necessary depends on how you want to use the computer. Various sizes are available, ranging from 32 megabytes to 12 gigabytes. If you want to run the latest computer games properly on your computer, you should opt for a graphics card with at least 8 gigabytes. This should be enough to display 4K resolutions smoothly.
Which operating system do you need to run your graphics card?
The available graphics cards are not compatible with all operating systems, as the manufacturers do not always provide the necessary drivers. Therefore, before you buy your graphics and video card, find out whether it can be operated with your operating system. For example, the latest models do not always run under Linux, and Windows cards are not always compatible with MAC models. Therefore, take a look at the product specifications of the card in question.
What connection does the integrated RAM memory require?
The data processed in the graphics card must be delivered to the monitor in the appropriate quality. For this, it is necessary that the connections are also compatible. After all, a fast graphics card is of no use if the data does not reach the monitor in the same quality. Its connection must therefore harmonise with the graphics card. Fast graphics cards use modern connections and are compatible with DDR5 or DDR4 slots. But HDMI and DisplayPort connections are also common.
How loud are graphics and video cards?
One argument against simply blindly buying the best possible graphics card is the noise it can make. Powerful graphics and video cards that can process up to 4K are loud. Gamers may not mind this during a game, but it can be annoying when working. Therefore, consider carefully whether you really need such a graphics card. If a quiet card is important to you, make sure that it is passively cooled. Then you can expect noise-free operation. Alternatively, there are graphics cards with water cooling. These are also quiet.
What else should you look out for when buying a graphics card?
To use the graphics and video cards, your computer must have the latest driver. During installation, this is usually downloaded automatically. Often, the card comes with a CD that contains the driver. You can also find the drivers on the internet. If you want to use computer games, you should make sure that the Nvidia graphics card is equipped with the Adapt-Sync function. It synchronises the frame rate with the monitor's refresh rate. This makes the image smoother and less wobbly. AMD graphics cards, on the other hand, use the FreeSync method β so the monitor and graphics card must be compatible.
The two main players in graphics cards are currently Nvidia and AMD. Both produce similarly powerful cards for the entry-level and mid-range. In the area of the most powerful cards, Nvidia is ahead. Intel also plays a role when it comes to processors for graphics cards.
What can I use the graphics cards for?
In addition to gaming and video editing, graphics cards have also become very popular for bitcoin mining. It's all about the parallel architecture. All forms of cryptocurrency mining, such as bitcoin mining, require a lot of similar calculations. More powerful graphics cards can do these calculations in parallel, where your CPU would do them sequentially. This makes graphics cards much better suited to cryptocurrency mining than any CPU.
Can I use multiple graphics cards at the same time?
Yes, depending on the card; this technology is known as SLI in NVIDIA cards and Crossfire in AMD cards. Running multiple cards simultaneously provides more performance, but you need a compatible motherboard as well as the appropriate video cards. You also need sufficient power and cooling for all your cards. Check with the manufacturer to ensure that your cards are compatible.
Whether you are a gamer, designer, or video editor, having the right graphics card can make a significant difference in the quality of your work or gaming experience. Our range includes entry-level, mid-range and high-end cards, with options to suit all budgets. Look no further than Xepublicβs selection of graphics and video cards! We have a range of models from leading brands, including AMD, ASUS, EVGA, Gigabyte, MSI and more.