Even the best graphic cards on the market cannot output their best when external factors prevent it. Getting great visuals without sacrificing performance is something every gamer expects from his graphic card. This is only possible if no other bottlenecks are throttling the card and preventing it from functioning at full capacity. Just by doing routine system maintenance and ensuring that all your computer hardware components are in top working condition, you can ensure that your graphic card always performs at its peak.
Sufficient Cooling
Most modern graphic cards come with at least a heat sink and a fan to keep the card from overheating. Graphic cards that run too hot can cause lockups and freezes on the system and poor performance during games. Install the graphic card in a computer case that has sufficient ventilation to prevent it from overheating. Use compressed air and clean the card on a regular basis to remove any dust that may collect on it and contribute to overheating. If the card is overclocked, install extra cooling fans in the case as the card will run hotter than usual.
Updated Drivers
Manufacturers regularly release new drivers for graphic cards that can lead to improved performance. The two major players in the graphic card market are nVidia and ATI. No matter what brand your graphics card is, it will use a chipset from either of these two manufacturers. There are drivers for each version of the Windows operating system, so download and install the drivers that match what you are using. These drivers often include tweaks for newer games that will allow them to run better with your card than they do on older drivers.
Sufficient Power
When running a high-performance graphic card, it is important that the power supply in your computer meets or exceed your card's requirements. If a graphic card does not receive the power it needs, it cannot perform at its best. When surfing the Internet or using normal Windows applications, the card will usually not use all of its features, and thus will require less power. When running a game or other visually performance-intensive program, the card requires more power. This is where it can falter if the power supply is not up to scratch. Check your graphic card's box for the card's power requirements.
Suitable Computer
A computer can only perform as fast as its slowest components, so installing a top end graphics card in a dated computer will not allow it to run at its best. The system requirements on the packaging of the card will give you an indication of what you will need. These requirements are often, however, just the bare minimum to get the card up and running. If you want to make sure that your graphic card can output its best, the rest of the system should be of a comparable standard to avoid bottlenecks.
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