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Buying Guide for Video Cards |
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Glued to the latest 3D games or a collection of DVDs or editing high-quality images? It is the diminutive video card that makes it all possible for you! Small enough to fit in your hands, it defines how each of the million or more pixels on your monitor look. Indispensable to anything but the most basic computing, the video card, once considered an accessory is now an integral component of the computer. |
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Introduction | Technical Aspects | Visual Aspects | Additional Aspects |
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1 - Introduction
The video card basically takes information about an image from the CPU in bits and converts it into the image you
see on your monitor. It does this by controlling how each pixel or dot on your monitor behaves. The memory and speed of
a video card determines how fast and how competently it does this. There are a range of video cards, each with different
core chips, speeds, memory, etc. while this means there is one that is just right for you; it is also difficult to find
the right one. Some knowledge about the key factors that come into play when choosing a video card could make this decision
easier.
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2 - Technical Aspects
When purchasing a video card there are certain technical aspects you will want to take into account.
2.1 - Chipset
The chipset is the heart of the video card. It determines the efficiency of the card as it executes the various processes
needed when converting bits of information into the graphics you see on the monitor. Many times a card may be chosen for a
chipset and its compatibilities. e.g.: Quadro, Radeon, etc.
2.2 - System
Most video cards are compatible with Windows. Some are compatible only with Mac OS. If you are using Linux it is important
to check if the video card is compatible. Also check if the drivers and software are compatible with your system. You may
need the Open Graphics Library (OpenGL) to ensure compatibility.
2.3 - Clock Speed
The clock speed is the speed of the chipset and the faster it is the better. If the speed is too low then there may be a flicker on the screen when using advance or 3D graphics. It is measured in hertz. E.g.: 250 MHz.
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2.4 - Interface
Interface refers to the way the graphic cards communicate with the motherboard. AGP, PCI and PCI E are the interfaces
available today. PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) is the most common interface and is present in most motherboards.
It usually has multiple slots to connect. However, it is insufficient for high-end games, playing videos and editing and
the transfer rate is not fast enough. So you may wish to opt for the AGP which is fast becoming a standard for more capable
graphic cards. Even high-end graphic cards can’t do much if the interface does not allow it to communicate well with
the motherboard. Now-a-days most motherboards also have an AGP slot.
2.5 - Memory
Memory determines how much information a card can hold while processing. The more the better, as this helps faster
processing and also richer and smoother graphics and colors. This also determines the color depth. A card with 8 MB of
Ram can support up to 24-bit color but for more than that, you will need to upgrade the memory. Most card buyers opt
for the video card with the largest memory they can afford, because it is directly linked to the video card’s
graphics experience. Along with this check out the memory type (E.g.: DDR SDRAM) of the card and the data width (E.g.:
128-bit) that the card offers. These together decide the color output of the graphic cards.
2.6 - RAMDAC Speed
RAMDAC (Random Access Memory Digital-to-Analog Converter) speed is very important for high-end graphics cards. It
converts the information about color into analog signals for the monitor. The faster the speed, the better are the
graphics as this gives sharper images. It is measured in Hertz.
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3 - Visual Aspects
Obviously with a video card the visual aspects of how it works are very important. We have highlighted what to look for below.
3.1 - Color Depth
Color depth refers to the number of colors that a card can display on the monitor at a time. This, along with the refresh
rate and resolution determines the color quality of the display. Many cards support 8-bit color depth, but for better 3D
color experience, 24-bit true color is necessary.
3.2 - Refresh Rate
The refresh rate indicates the number of times in a second that the monitor changes. It is measured in hertz. If it is too
low, it causes the screen to flicker. Most graphic cards have a refresh rate of 75 Hertz or more and this is required,
depending upon the memory and the color depth.
3.3 - Max Resolution
Resolution refers to the number of pixels that the video card can render simultaneously. The more the resolution, the better
will be the graphics. It depends on the memory of the card, the color depth and the refresh rate. Also consider the size of
the monitor in conjunction with the resolution before choosing the card. For smaller monitors, cards with lower resolution
may suffice. E.g.: 2048 x 1536.
3.4 - 2-D Acceleration
2-D acceleration indicates how well the card displays 2D images. It is also called Windows acceleration and its capabilities
are judged by how smoothly it runs 2D applications. Most cards today have excellent 2D acceleration.
3.5 - 3-D Acceleration
This determines your card’s 3D capabilities. Most cards have basic 3D acceleration, but for 3D software and games
you may need advanced capabilities. Direct3D are OpenGL are the major 3-D graphics application program interfaces (APIs)
that are used today.
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4 - Additonal Aspects
Listed below are some additional aspects to consider before making your decision.
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4.1 - Price
Video cards are priced for as less as $25 to as high as $2500 and above. With chipsets, memory, speeds varying with price, it is essential to determine price and the features right at the onset. |
4.2 - TV Connections
Many cards now-a-days offer connectivity for external devices such as television and camcorders. If you intend to use the graphics
card for these then look for external jacks that can connect to the TV, VCR, etc. to send and receive signals. Some cards incorporate
a TV tuner that lets you access cable channels and free-to-air channels. If you wish to connect to digital monitors such as flat
panels or LCDs you may opt for DVIs or Digital Visual Interface for enhanced productivity. Some video cards come with bundled
software and games. If you are opting for a card due to these then ensure that they are not just trial or demo versions.
Also check out the warranty on the card, along the specifications. With the budget and features in place, choose the right
video card for the best graphics experience.
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