CPU or GPU Limited...

ArchAngel777

Diamond Member
Dec 24, 2000
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I was curious... I had been getting this bug to upgrade to a C2D system but I just cannot justify it at this point. I seem to recall people talking about the 8800GTX being CPU limited at resolutions 1280 X 1024 and lower. However, when something is CPU limited, does that allow for more AA/AF without performance penalties, or does AA and AF take more CPU power as well? The reason I ask is because a few websites that I have read have given conflicting information. I always thought (still do) that the GPU handles all AA/AF and that those features should not strain a CPU, but rather, the GPU. Is my thinking correct?

 

Matthias99

Diamond Member
Oct 7, 2003
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The GPU handles (practically) all AA/AF duties. There could be some fractionally higher CPU usage in the driver, but it should be fairly miniscule.
 

ArchAngel777

Diamond Member
Dec 24, 2000
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Originally posted by: Matthias99
The GPU handles (practically) all AA/AF duties. There could be some fractionally higher CPU usage in the driver, but it should be fairly miniscule.

Thanks Mathias99, haven't seen you post here in ages! :beer:
 

40sTheme

Golden Member
Sep 24, 2006
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High amounts of AA/AF will offset the resolution CPU penalties. It will take tons of workload to the GPU. Mostly AA, not AF. It's pretty free; AA is what reduces performance. 1280x1024 with 16xS AA will definitely offset the resolution.
 

ArchAngel777

Diamond Member
Dec 24, 2000
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Originally posted by: tanishalfelven
Originally posted by: Matthias99
...a week and a half is "ages"? :p

LOL.

ROFLCOPTER!!! LOLLERSKATES!!!

Anyway... No, I actually havn't seen you post for months. But I do admit, my time in video is shallow and I don't get involved with the flame war threads in general, not that you did either. Just hadn't seen you post in ages.