Graphics Cards

Integrated GPUs or iGPUs are located in the server’s processor. Being on the shared system memory, iGPUs struggle with demanding workloads due to their limited power. They are available in smaller form factors. Dedicated or discrete GPUs are separate components with their own VRAM and power source, and can provide much higher performance. They support technologies like ray tracing, AI-graphics, etc.

VRAM requirements keep varying based on resolution, texture quality, and workload intensity. 4GB to 6GB VRAM is suitable for 1080p gaming, photo editing, and light video editing. 8GB VRAM is recommended for 1440p settings, 4K gaming, 4K video editing, 3D modelling, etc. 10GB and more is best for 4K ultra settings, high-end rendering, DL, and complex VFX. A 16GB is ideal for 4K gaming and ray tracing.

CUDA cores present in NVIDIA GPUs and AMD Stream processors process all the data and information given to them, and are small parallel processing units that perform calculations. E.g., they perform the game graphics calculations like sketching role models and rendering in-game scenery, etc.

Yes, ray tracing is a rendering technique that parallels real-world lighting and creates more realistic shadows and reflections. It significantly improves the visual fidelity in games. Ray tracing needs powerful GPUs to run smoothly and can drastically reduce frame rates with lower-end hardware. The impact of ray tracing depends on the game and the hardware used.

Graphics cards use passive cooling, heatsinks, and fans to disperse heat. While the fans push hot air away, heatsinks absorb and dissipate heat. High-end GPUs employ vapour chamber cooling and liquid cooling techniques to lower temperatures. A robust cooling system extends the GPU’s longevity, prevents performance drops, and allows higher clock speeds.

Both NVIDIA and AMD are market leaders in GPU manufacturing. The best choice depends on your needs and workload requirements. NVIDIA GPUs are considered better for ray tracing, AI-powered features like DLSS, and power efficiency needed in high-end gaming and professional workloads. AMD GPUs offer competitive pricing and strong rasterization performance for gaming without ray tracing.

GPUs are growing more advanced with improvements in AI, cooling, and efficiency. Technologies like DLSS, FSR, and AI-driven upscaling are deciding the future of graphics cards. Advanced cooling solutions like liquid cooling, vapour chambers, and graphene-based heatsinks extend the efficiency and lifespan of GPUs. Real-time ray tracing, enhanced cloud gaming support, and dedicated AI cores will be inevitable in future GPUs.