Written by

Conor Dart

Graphics Card

What are graphics cards and what do they do?

A graphics card(GPU) is a piece of computer hardware that is used to generate images on a display. It is typically used in conjunction with a CPU, and works by processing and translating the image data that the CPU produces into a form that can be displayed on a screen. Graphics cards can be used for a variety of purposes, including gaming, video editing, and general computing.

These cards vary in terms of their features and performance levels. Some common features include the ability to support multiple monitors and output to multiple displays. More powerful cards can offer higher frame rates, better image quality, and support for more demanding applications.

Note:

GPUs generally require a separate power connection from the PSU in order to function properly.

How do you choose the right GPU for your needs and budget?

There’s a few things to consider when choosing a GPU:

Firstly, you need to decide what purpose you need the card for. If you only need it for basic tasks like browsing the web or watching videos, then you won’t need a particularly powerful card. However, if you plan on running more intense programs like gaming or video editing, then you’ll need a stronger card with more video ram and memory.

Secondly, you need to consider your budget. GPUs can range in price, so it’s important to know how much you’re willing to spend especially if you have a low budget.

Last but not least, you need to make sure that the GPU is compatible with your other hardware to prevent bottlenecking.

What are the different types of GPUs on the market today?

It can be divided into two main categories: Discrete GPUs and integrated GPUs. Discrete GPUs are dedicated pieces of hardware that are installed in a separate slot on the motherboard. Onboard graphics, on the other hand, are built into the CPU and share memory with the system RAM. This is mostly used in laptops than desktops. Discrete GPUs are typically more powerful, but they also tend to be more expensive.

GPUs have changed a lot over the years. The new GPUs come with some amazing technology that will change everything. When it comes to manufacturers – AMD and Nvidia have always been fighting for the top spot.

The perfect card?

The best graphics card available in the country as well as globally is the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080. Taking the second spot is the AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT. Both those cards provide you with ray-tracing and other awesome features. But these cards are pretty expensive, especially in South Africa. It’s worth looking at the Nvidia 3000 series, as they are mostly affordable and they all come with the new technology.

How to install a new graphics card

Installing a new GPU in your computer is not as difficult as it may seem. In most cases, you can simply remove the old card and insert the new one into the same slot. However, make sure that the slot on the motherboard is compatible with the card. It’s also very important that it is capable with all the other hardware in your PC.

Follow these steps:

1) Turn off your PC and unplug all of the cables.

2) Remove the cover from your PC case.

3) Find the GPU slot and remove the old card.

4) Insert the new card into the slot.

5) Connect the correct PSU cable to the card.

6) Connect the card to your screen via a cable.

7) Turn on your PC and install any drivers and updates that are needed.

8) Now you can sit back and have fun!

Important:

Whether you grab an Nvidia or AMD card, they both have their own software available. AMD Radeon and Nvidia GeForce Experience is something you can’t live without. The software has both recording and game capturing features, which makes it easier for creating content or simply saving your favourite moments. Make sure to download these drivers off of the official websites.

Tips for keeping your graphics card running optimally over time

Graphics cards are a vital component in any PC and they need to be properly maintained in order to function optimally. You should regularly update your graphic drivers. New drivers are released on a regular basis and it often includes performance enhancements and bug fixes. This will help to ensure that everything is running at its best all the time.

Clean your graphics card when it looks dusty. Dust can build up inside the card over time and that can cause it to overheat. You can use a can of compressed air to blow the dust out. Cooling is very important for your whole PC. You can find more information online on the different cooling types and which ones are the best.

Looking for affordable prices and awesome customer service?

Head over to Ultitech to shop and see what we have in stock! If you require any help finding the right product, contact us so we can sort you out.