graphics

Graphics Cards Go to Work

New software harnesses video chips for more than gaming

What It Is

GPU computing: Using a PC’s graphics processor to perform other tasks.

Why It’s Radical

The graphics-processing unit (GPU) that normally handles only visual effects is taking over duties from the CPU, the computer’s main chip. CPUs such as Intel’s Core i7 max out at four computing cores. But graphics chips have dozens of cores that, though not as versatile, are ideal for parallel processing—breaking complex tasks into smaller chunks that the many cores work on simultaneously.

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Forget the CPU. Buy a Better Graphics Card

Video processors do more to boost speed than main processors, says nVidia

digg_url = 'http://digg.com/hardware/CPU_Vs_Graphics_Card';
OK, they are not the most objective source, but graphics processor manufacturer nVidia does make a pretty convincing argument for spending more money on a computers graphics card and less on the main processor—in certain conditions.

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