Video Card(Installation) and Configuration Flashcards
What is the main function of a video card?
To generate a computer’s visual output—ranging from simple text to complex 3D graphics
What are the two main components of a video card?
GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
Video memory
Why do GPUs require heatsinks and fans?
Because processing graphics generates a lot of heat.
What is integrated graphics?
A graphics solution where the GPU is built into the motherboard or CPU, sharing system memory for graphic processing.
How can you identify a motherboard with onboard video?
By the presence of video output ports on the I/O plate.
What is a dedicated video card?
A separate card installed in an expansion slot with its own GPU and high-speed dedicated memory.
What type of memory do dedicated video cards use?
SGRAM (including VRAM, GDDR3, GDDR4, or GDDR5)
What are dedicated video cards typically used for?
Gaming PCs and graphics-heavy applications like 3D rendering.
Name common video output connectors.
VGA, DVI, S-Video, HDMI, DisplayPort, RCA, Coaxial
Why is connector compatibility important when choosing a video card?
To ensure the card matches your display device without needing adapters.
What two parameters define display capability?
Resolution (number of pixels displayed)
Refresh rate (times per second the screen is redrawn)
How should you determine how much video memory is needed?
Check the recommended memory requirements of the most demanding application or game.
What are the two most common 3D graphics APIs?
DirectX
OpenGL
What is the most common expansion bus for dedicated video cards?
PCIe x16
What is multi-GPU support and who provides it?
Using two identical GPUs together:
NVIDIA: SLI
AMD: CrossFire
Who benefits most from multi-GPU setups?
High-end gaming systems that require extensive graphical processing.
When is a dedicated video card necessary?
When high graphic processing power or more memory is required than integrated graphics can provide.
What should you consider when selecting a video card?
Application requirements
Display connector compatibility
Supported bus types
What is a dedicated video card and how is it installed?
A dedicated video card is an expansion board installed into a PCIe slot on the motherboard.
What must you check for component compatibility before installing a video card?
Ensure the card matches the motherboard slot (e.g., PCIe x16) and fits your performance needs (e.g., basic vs. gaming).
How do power requirements differ between video cards?
Some cards draw power from the PCIe slot, while others require 6-pin or 8-pin connectors from the PSU.
Why is cooling important when installing a video card?
GPUs generate a lot of heat—second only to the CPU—so adequate system cooling is essential.
Why should you disable onboard graphics before installing a dedicated GPU?
To ensure the system uses the dedicated video card for better performance.
What should you do in BIOS/UEFI before installing a video card?
Configure BIOS to prefer the expansion card over onboard graphics, but avoid fully disabling onboard video.
