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NVIDIA Optimus Switches Between High Performance and Battery Savings

by Terrence O'Brien on February 10, 2010 at 06:30 AM

NVIDIA Optimus Makes Switchable Graphics Easy
There's nothing new about a laptop that can switch between a low-power, integrated graphics processor (IGP), which extends battery life, and a high-end discreet chip, which gives a little extra graphics "oomph." That process is often a little problematic, however, frequently requiring a user to manually switch over, or even forcing a reboot.

Today, NVIDIA unveiled Optimus, which aims to make switching between the two modes completely seamless. Optimus uses software profiles to detect whether or not an application requires extra graphic muscle, and then automatically switches between the two different video processors. So, if you're just browsing the Web or working in Excel, Optimus sticks with the low-key IGP. Play an HD video or launch 'Crysis,' however, and it will automatically switch to the high-powered chip.

Not all applications have profiles yet, but if you come across a program that Optimus doesn't recognize (as Engadget did with the demo version of 'Batman: Arkham Asylum') right-clicking on the shortcut allows you to pick which graphics chip to use.

At the end of the month, ASUS will become the first company to launch laptops equipped with Optimus, and rumor has it that the system will be making its way into MacBook Pros, too. Expect AMD and Intel to play a game of "me too" and launch competing products as soon as possible. [From: Engadget]

Tags: graphics, igp, integrated graphics, IntegratedGraphics, laptop, laptops, nvidia, optimus, switchable graphics, SwitchableGraphics, top

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