Any desktop boards that allow 'Optimus'-like gpu handling?

[Comdrpopnfresh]

I have a 6950 not being used, and was thinking of building a desktop. I like that my laptop seamlessly manages the intel and discrete graphics. Do any desktop mb lines/mfr's provide that?

 

[JustAnAverageGuy]

Virtu?

 

[borisvodofsky]

Virtu?

Yes, virtu allows for optimus "like" handling of gpu.

HOWEVER, it doesn't work nearly as well as optimus.

Virtu will literally only save you 10 watts of power at most, and add alot of bulky software on your system.

they tested this.

 

[paperwastage]

the only reason why laptops have Optimus is for energy (low powered to max battery life when needed, powerful nvidia when possible)

with a desktop, I don't really see any need to save power

also, idle power consumption is at most 20 W

With just the HD3300 IGP and my X4 idling at 800Mhz@1.09v, idle draw was around 84W. The OCCT tests resulted in the following:
CPU: 140W, increase 56W
GPU: 106W (fluctuating 73, 85, 91W), increase 22W
PSU: 145W, increase 61W

With the HD6950 (shaders unlocked, idle clocks 250/150 (single screen) - VDDC 5A) and the X4 idling at 800Mhz@1.09v, idle draw was 102W.

http://www.silentpcreview.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=62254

http://www.anandtech.com/show/4061/amds-radeon-hd-6970-radeon-hd-6950/24

 

[dave_the_nerd]

I can see a need to save power on a desktop - you're paying for it, after all.

But desktop GPUs idle so low now (especially AMD's chips) that you can save way more power elsewhere. (Undervolting the CPU, moving to SSDs or 2.5" platter drives, replacing 5.25" opticals with laptop / slim opticals, proper PSU selection, etc.)