News - Sony, FSC and BenQ adopt NVIDIA hybrid graphics

[HEXUS]

AMD frozen out with new notebooks that allow switching between NVIDIA GPU and Intel integrated graphics without reboot.

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[Agent]

I have wanted to see this on desktops for years.
A small low power chip alongside the main GPU for use on the dekstop, and other non intensive applications. This way, the main GPU could be pretty much entirely shut down - saving power and giving out less heat.

[staffsMike]

Can't comment one the other two but for the sony it is indeed based on the user's decision. They have performance and stamina buttons to choose between them.

As for desktops. You can do this, so far only on the Nvidia based 8200/8300 AMD boards. From what I've read it isn't a perfect solution. The dedicated card still draws a fair bit of power and SPCR said their card was remaining quite hot, although the fan does shut down so it is at least good for a quiet solution for watching DVD's etc..

Pretty sure it's just the 9800GT/GTX which can do this so far.

[Biscuit]

Yeah i think mike is correct from what i have read.

Automatic switching between D-GPU and IGP is definitely a technology which needs to be developed further and brought mainstream. I see more and more motherboards and CPUs offering lower power consumption technologies which dont compromise the noticable speed and i think its going to be nothing but profitable for the graphics companies to do the same.

[badass]

Intel, AMD and Nvidia need to get together so any AMD/NVidia and in the future discreet Graphics card can be paired with any Intel/AMD/Nvidia IGP and switch off seamlessly when full power 3D isn't needed. The solution also needs to be reliable and require no extra cables.

[Biscuit]

I agree, although NVidia seem to think they are soo much better than everyone else at the moment

[MadduckUK]

i like the inq's take

[Biscuit]

lol...