THE GPU
The Billion Cycles Per Second Processor
WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Todays desktop computers and laptops are designed for a multitude of uses and many different price points. Due to the different options, there are different set ups a GPU may have in within that device. Generally, the different GPU arrangements are implemented to suit better the class of device they have been placed in.
DEDICATED
INTEGRATED
HYBRID
Having dedicated graphics means that it has RAM dedicated to the GPU's use. This means that the main system's GPU will not use the RAM of the main system. Most often dedicated graphics are used for hardcore gamers and professional graphics designers. Drawbacks of dedicated graphics are the amount of heat build up from high intensity processing and the amount of power consumption, causing shortened battery life. Normally dedicated graphics cards are the most expensive.
Integrated GPUs, unlike dedicated, do not have their own RAM set aside for processing graphics. These types of processors are ideal for low end flash gaming, video watching and general word processing. These GPUs often are implemented too preserve battery life and generate less heat through excessive power usage. Integrated graphics processing units tend to be at a lower price point than dedicated graphics, due to weaker processing power.
Hybrid graphics processing units are graphics processors that while they may have a small amount of dedicated RAM like a dedicated GPU, often will end up sharing memory with the system, as an integrated GPU does. Often times with modern computers, you will have a combination of dedicated and integrated graphics. The computer will then have the ability to switch, in low power, to a less powerful graphics card. then, when necessary, switch to a more powerful card. Its really the best of both worlds.
