Video switching between GPU and integrated graphics

[Emton]

So if I make a build that has an i5 with HD 2500 integrated graphics and also have a dedicated card like a geforce, will I have the option to switch between the 2 graphics at-will or automatically?

For instance I noticed some notebooks have nVidia Optimus technology that switches between the gpus when needed http://www.nvidia.com/object/optimus_technology.html

http://www.sagernotebook.com/index.p...el_name=NP9130

Well is there a way to do this in a micro ATX or mini ITX build, I think it would be useful for conserving power, reducing use of the main GPU etc.

 

[Emton]

Hey does anyone know about this? I'm interested in builds that are more power efficient. So shouldn't it be easy to have switching between the gpu and integrated graphics?

 

[sublime420ec]

my asrock z75pro3 came with software to use both it's called virtu mvp it's a control panel thing for graphics i have it turned off because i have a fast gfx card....

 

[sublime420ec]

but ya pretty sure u could switch between them at any time i guess....would have to move vga cable from card to on-board everytime tho.....kinda confused on what ur asking lol

 

[Emton]

my asrock z75pro3 came with software to use both it's called virtu mvp it's a control panel thing for graphics i have it turned off because i have a fast gfx card....

Right I'm thinking something like that maybe where it will switch automatically or manually if I choose. Is that something available on a lot of mother boards. I'm thinking about the Gigabyte H77N-WIFI mini ITX, I'll look into it some more

 

[Emton]

but ya pretty sure u could switch between them at any time i guess....would have to move vga cable from card to on-board everytime tho.....kinda confused on what ur asking lol

Basically a mini ITX build with a nice GPU and a descent intel chip with integrated graphics, where I can use the integrated graphics for the 2d system and save watt use, and the ability to use the gpu for games, I would hope with out moving any cables around...

 

[sublime420ec]

ah ya virtu mvp might help you here's a link read into it...

there site:
http://www.lucidlogix.com/product-virtu-mvp.shtml

how it works:
http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/370234-33-virtu-works

*be sure to click see full content on the first post*

 

[frozentundra123456]

but ya pretty sure u could switch between them at any time i guess....would have to move vga cable from card to on-board everytime tho.....kinda confused on what ur asking lol

I have tried to do this on two dells there is no output from the mb VGA output when a discrete card is installed. At the time I was doing this, I just was curious how the system would work for day to day use and some older games using just the igp. I also wanted to be able to use the igp to power a second monitor, as I did not have the proper cable to use the HDMI/display port outputs from my 7770.

Btw, I may be old fashioned, but I could not believe there was not a VGA or second dvi output from the card.