How to check the video card

The days when the computer graphics card was a component remained the past, the main task of which was only the transformation of PC commands into control signals of the monitor scan circuit. Now the transfer of the image, although it remained the prerogative of the video adapter, it acquired various additional features. So, a special graphics processor placed on the card performs 3D image building, processing, many basic picture output functions began to be executed more quickly, unloading the central computing unit from routine tasks, etc.

Obviously, the final performance of the entire video subsystem depends on the processing power of the graphics processor and its capabilities. It's no wonder that you need to know how to test the video card. This is especially important at the stage of choosing a graphic solution, just before visiting the store. Many forums provide recommendations on how to test a video card. Following it allows you to:

- learn the speed of the graphics processor and its capabilities;

- compare the result with others;

- determine what is the "weak link" - the video adapter or other components of the system unit.

The desire to check the video card sooner or later visits every owner of the laptop or computer. The reasons for this are very different. One person is looking for new knowledge, looking for information on how to test the video card. Another is important to determine the performance index for comparison with alternative solutions. Well, the third one decides to test the graphics card to see if it is completely suitable for modern 3D applications. There may also be specific tasks, for example, such as troubleshooting.

In how to test a video card, there is nothing complicated. For this, there are several programs for testing. One of the most popular is the 3Dmark package from Futuremark. This program is available in several versions: free, in Which uses only the basic functions, without the possibility of making changes in the parameters, and commercial, which provides additional opportunities. In addition, the versions also differ. In most cases, it makes no sense to use versions of past years, because the results will be of little use to the current realities. The result of the 3DMark package is the index on which you can judge performance. The higher the value, the faster the map. You can also visually assess the speed of its work in modern three-dimensional applications.

For such testing, you will need a Windows system, 3DMark package of the correct version, installed DirectX libraries, actual drivers for the video card. It is worth noting that during testing, the load on the video processor increases, so its temperature increases.

But if the task of 3DMark is to obtain a performance index, then you can check the card for errors in work with the help of the ATI Tool (works with NVidia and AMD cards). The high load on the computing units of the graphic processor created by it very quickly reveals possible malfunctions. For example, the appearance of squares, stripes or dots may indicate insufficient cooling efficiency or the famous "blade of a chip".