Q: Why is it important to have a separate graphics card?
There is an excellent answer to your question at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graphics_processing_unit#GPU_forms
Basically, dedicated graphics (what you call separate graphics) has its own memory whereas integrated graphics borrows memory from your computer’s RAM. By borrowing from your computer’s RAM, integrated graphics takes resources from your entire computer — making your computer slower and less powerful.
This means that dedicated is better for gaming, video editing, connecting to a television, etc. In fact, many games and multimedia programs will not run correctly without dedicated graphics.
In desktops, dedicated graphics comes in the form of a removable card while integrated graphics is built into the computer’s motherboard (main circuit). Some desktops that are manufactured with integrated graphics can be upgraded with a dedicated graphics card.
In 99% of laptops, dedicated graphics is soldered onto the motherboard and CANNOT be remove/upgraded. And like in desktops, laptop integrated graphics are built into the motherboard. So when purchasing a laptop, it is best to buy the most powerful dedicated graphics you can afford — you won’t be able to upgrade later.
Does the above information help? Let me know…
robert (Geek) says: on February 11, 2009 at 5:56 pm