Given the vital role GPUs play, they can wear out faster when not taken good care of. Using a damaged GPU can not only worsen its condition but also pose a significant risk to your computer. This is why you need to replace it after a certain period.
It is recommended that you replace your GPU after 3-5 years, depending on its condition. However, you can replace your GPU even after two months due to damage or when it cannot support your game’s software. In fact, the only thing that might stop you from replacing your GPU as often as possible is your budget. If money is not a problem, you can upgrade or replace your GPU after a few weeks, months, or years depending on what you want.
However, if you don’t have money to burn on getting new GPUs, you can hold on to your current one until it is time to get another. The first sign that you need to replace it is when it starts struggling with new games. Several factors can affect the performance of a GPU. Some of them include; the amount of video RAM, 3D/open GL support, cooling rate, and maintenance.
Amount of Video RAM
The amount of video RAM is one of the most common factors affecting GPU performance. GPUs have a specific amount of RAM on their cards. The speed and amount of RAM exposed to the GPU can significantly affect its performance. The type of task at hand also determines the amount of RAM needed. For instance, typing documents in Word won’t require high-end GPUs with high amounts of RAM.
Any type of GPU supported by your OS can handle such tasks. However, for more complex roles like playing high-graphic video games, video editing, image manipulation, watching HDTV, or watching DVD movies, you will need faster and more RAM. Keep in mind that many video cards sold as gaming GPUs differ from other video cards that use similar chipsets.
The amount of RAM you need for video gaming is determined by the frame rate, function of the resolution, complexity of the raster, and color depth. The higher any of these factors are, the more RAM is needed. The video subsystem will be highly stretched and will need more processing power to display the images. When the amount of RAM is high, you could notice glitches on your screen due to improper processing.
3D and Open GL Support
Another factor affecting GPU performance is 3D and Open GL support. Only the low-quality GPUs don’t come with 3D and Open GL support. Open GL is the highest standard for high-quality video, supported by Mac, Windows, and Unix machines. It is also supported by several other specialized devices. When your GPU’s open GL support is damaged, its performance will be affected significantly. Some of the signs of a damaged Open GL support are poor video processing and, in some cases, frequent breakage in the video display.
The Cooling Rate
The cooling rate of a GPU device can also affect its performance. Most mid-range and high-end GPUs are equipped with onboard cooling fans. When using your computer for video gaming or any other graphics-intensive apps, adequate cooling will make a significant difference. Naturally, heat is one of the biggest threats to electronic devices.
This is why cooling is very important. If the GPS is not cooled regularly, it can overheat and crash. An overheated GPU will barely function, and you are more likely to have a blank screen. This is why it is very important to ensure that the cooling system is operating efficiently as expected.
Its Overall Maintenance
Maintenance is also crucial in determining a GPU’s performance. Habits like overusing the GPU could make it wear out faster. How you store it is also important. Exposing your GPU to dirt could see dust particles settle on it and affect its performance. Furthermore, exposing the GPU to heavier loads than it can handle will affect its processing power. This will result in glitches and constant breakage in the video display.
