This article will step through the inner workings of a modern 3D video card. You will see how some of these technologies work together to create the beautiful graphics you see in modern games and applications.
Let's jump right in ...
1. How is a 3D Image Created?
To create a typical 3D images, there are a lot of steps involved. The computer needs to do the compute vertices, clip edges eliminate hidden surfaces and also paint textures. Think of the process as drawing up a wire-frame of a scene, after which the computer fills in the colors and the little pictures that go into each wire frame.
2. Two Key Operations
There are two key operations in a computer related to drawing a 3D image. They are called texture mapping and polygon drawing.
Texture mapping is an insanely complicated process because the PC needs to work out the perspective and which surfaces are revealed versus which are hidden from the user.
Another important operation is polygon drawing. This is a technique used to represent moving objects. What is done is to cover imaginary wire frames with various polygon shapes so has to give an impression of a 3D look.
3. Processing Power
Now because the graphics operations are so intense, real-time 3D rendering requires fast CPUs for good performance. Those computers used in animated movies are stellar in their specs and render graphics at blistering speeds.
Conclusion
Whew! Hopefully this article has helped you understand what goes on in a 3D video card. If you're shopping for a 3D video card, try to bear the above points in mind to help you make a better purchase decision.
Gary Hendricks runs a hobby site on building computers. Visit his website at Build-Your-Own-Computers.com for tips and tricks on assembling a PC, as well as buying good computer components.
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