Return the performance of an old laptop, in several ways. One of them is to increase productivity by updating the internal elements. A simple way to improve the graphics performance is to upgrade the video card. To do this, you need to know where it is.
What video cards are
Video cards are divided into two groups - discrete and embedded. Both types can be used both separately and in pairs. Each group has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.
Integrated graphics cards
An integrated card, often referred to as a built-in card, is not represented by a separate board. It does not have its own memory, processor and uses the resources of the central core. Simply put, it is combined with the main processor. Replace this type of video adapter at home is impossible. Its disadvantage is a noticeable decrease in CPU performance and overall performance.
These cards are used in mobile PCs designed to solve the problems of the average user. They cope well with video playback, they will “pull” simple games. Advantages of such cards:
- the price of a laptop with a built-in video card is lower;
- integrated video generates a smaller amount of heat, it does not need additional cooling;
- increases battery life, because it consumes less energy;
- does not require additional space in the case.
Discrete graphics card
This type has its own processor and RAM. Everything is mounted on a separate board, which is installed in the slot of the motherboard. The use of a discrete graphics card allows you to not reduce the power of the main processor and get high graphics performance. If you need to upgrade, it is through the replacement of a discrete card can achieve a significant increase in performance.
Disadvantages of discrete cards:
- a standalone card requires additional space in the case, due to which the size of the laptop increases;
- requires forced cooling, especially for high-performance chips;
- increase the cost of a laptop;
- reduce battery life due to high power consumption.
Reference! Discrete cards are suitable for those users who use a laptop for games, work in graphic editors and other tasks that require high graphic performance.
In some notebook models, both types of graphics cards can be used simultaneously. But do not think that this gives a significant performance increase - the cards work in turn. The significant advantage of such a scheme is the ability to work without a discrete card, that is, you can extract it and everything will work on the integrated graphics.
Integrated-discrete
New development of engineers, which is still rarely used. The card is a separate chip with its own memory. Such an adapter is installed directly into the CPU loop on the motherboard.
Where is the video card in the laptop
Whether it is a discrete graphics card or integrated, they are located in the notebook and have direct contact with the motherboard. To replace, you will need to open the case, which is difficult to do without certain knowledge.
Reference! On YouTube, you can find video instructions for disassembling most popular laptop models and replace the video card yourself.
Some manufacturers made sure that users had the opportunity to replace the discrete graphics adapter without a complete disassembly of the laptop and provided a special hatch. In such models, it is located on the reverse side and is fastened with a few cogs with a cap under the cross-shaped screwdriver.
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