| Gaming Graphics Glossary - Page 2 of 2 |
11. GDDR – GDDR is a type of DDR (double data rate) memory produced specifically for graphics applications. Most modern graphics cards use GDDR memory to handle the demands of graphics processing, as the specialized clock speeds, bandwidth, and power requirements are more appropriate than the generally less expensive ‘standard’ DDR format.
12. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) – The GPU is the processor found on a graphics card, and is the main chip for handling the work required to create the image produced on a display.
13. OpenGL – OpenGL is an application programming interface that competes with Direct3D, and it is not owned by any one corporation. The “open" nature of this API appeals to those in favor of open source development and this type of development can lead to more frequent updates.
14. PCI Express (PCIe) – PCI Express is the latest interface for connecting a graphics card to a computer system, and it is the successor to AGP in terms of gaming graphics performance. A recent Tech Tip focused on PCIe and detailed the significant performance increases and flexible configurations available with PCI Express graphics cards.
15. Random Access Memory Digital-to-Analog Converter (RAMDAC) – RAMDACs are chips found on graphics cards that convert the digital signal received from the graphics processing unit (GPU) to an analog signal to be sent to the monitor. Digital displays can receive the unconverted signal from graphics cards capable of digital video output, and therefore do not require the additional processing provided by the RAMDAC.
16. Resolution – The number of pixels displayed on the screen is referred to as the resolution, and the value is represented by the number of horizontal pixels times (x) the number of vertical pixels. Raising the resolution from 800x600 to 1600x1200, for example, will provide enhanced image quality but generally at the expense of lower frame rates.
17. Texture Mapping – Texture mapping uses bitmap images stored in memory to provide the surface appearance of an object rendered in 3D. The texture is wrapped around the frame of an object, and provides a fairly simple approach for providing a complex shape. The simplicity may save processing power and provide a reasonable representation of the desired texture, but it can also lead to a chunky appearance during motion.
18. Vertical Sync (VSync) – Vertical Synchronization is an option found in many games that allows the frame rate of the game to be matched to the refresh rate of the monitor. Generally, allowing VSync provides the greatest stability, but turning it off can allow for much higher frame rates. The downside of the greater speed is the potential for artifacts to develop.
19. Video Graphics Array (VGA) – VGA was originally a graphics standard developed by IBM that allowed for 640x480 resolution with 16 colors. This standard has obviously been advanced to provide the greater resolutions and colors we enjoy today, but all computers support at least VGA mode. The term VGA is now mainly used to describe the 15-pin analog connection found on many graphics cards for connecting a monitor. The blue connection seen on the right-hand side of this graphics card’s back plate is a VGA connection.
20. Video In / Video Out (VIVO) – VIVO capable graphics cards can not only send a video signal out to a monitor, but they can also receive a video signal for use by the computer system. VIVO capable graphics cards, such as this one, include a dedicated connection for sending/receiving a video signal, and generally include a separate chip for processing the incoming video signal, as well as special software for utilizing the signal. VIVO really has no bearing on game play, but many graphics cards well suited for game play may include this multimedia connection.
Final Words:
Twenty terms related to graphics, and more specifically gaming graphics, were covered in this Tech Tip, but it is by no means an exhaustive resource. There are too many specialized terms and technologies related to graphics to cover in a single Tech Tip, and the number continues to grow as the technology advances. The terms covered are some of the more common ones that may be encountered, and should provide a good reference for trying to understand a graphics card’s (or video games) features and specifications.
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