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This is a guide made not only for newcomers to Overclock.net, but also for experienced overclockers looking for a quick and easy place to get all of their information. If you like the thread, please comment. Comments are what keep the thread relevant!
This guide is updated to keep up to date with all current information displayed and is a self-help thread meant for anyone looking for information about graphics cards. Every time the thread is updated, a new header is shown.
What is a "Graphics Card"?:
A graphics card, graphics adaptor, graphics processing unit (GPU), or video card, is, according to Dictionary.com:
Quote:
| A circuit board fitted to a computer, especially an IBM PC, containing the necessary video memory and other electronics to provide a bitmap display. Adaptors vary in the resolution (number of pixels) and number of colours they can display, and in the refresh rate they support. These parameters are also limited by the monitor to which the adaptor is connected. A number of such display standards, e.g. SVGA, have become common and different software requires or supports different sets. |
What does this mean? Well, it controls the graphics processing power of your computer. It is used to watch videos, play games, anything that displays a picture of some sort.
Buying a Graphics Card:
Which one should I get?
It depends on what you want to do. If you are going to be playing something as simple as solitaire or watching a few videos, a low tier (or integrated, which means it is built into the motherboard) graphics card would be for you. If you are a casual gamer, a medium tier graphics card. And if you are a hardcore gamer who plans on playing games like Crysis, a high tier graphics card. But, it all depends on your budget.
You should always do research before buying anything. Luckily, as this guide is focused on absolute simplicity, here's a link to a website that has done research and can tell you the best graphics cards for the money.
It's a funky link, but it always takes you to the MOST UPDATED GUIDE, no matter when you click on it!
Upgrading Your Graphics Card:
Want to replace your graphics card with a faster (or slower) one? Follow this fantastic guide by PCWorld! It gives simple yet comprehensive instructions on how to switch graphics cards with fifteen steps!:
Updating Your Graphics Card:
Looking for updates? You've come to the right place. I've placed two buttons, just click the one that applies to you and you'll be directed to the company-specific website for updating your drivers!
Speed of Your Graphics Card:
Click this image to be directed to the stickied thread on yours truly, Overclock.net. Find your graphics card, compare, and more!
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Want to see if you can run the games you want to play? Check out "Can You Run It?"!:
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Looking to speed up your graphics card? Try LifeHacker's modern guide on overclocking!:
