What is Z-Buffer Depth?

[Wizend]

I have been overclocking and playing with my computer and looking at 3dmark 2k1 scores onlie and I am noticing that people have a z-buffer depth of 32-bits and I only have a z-buffer depth of 24 bits. I was just wondering how I change this or what it is and what it means. Thanks

 

[Wizend]

BTW, I have a Radeon "SE" VIVO.

 

[John]

A z-buffer stores the actual depth of each pixel. A w-buffer stores 1/w the fourth coordinate that every perspective correct point needs. With a z-buffer you tend to have problems with the edges of polygons which tend to pop in and out as you animate because of tiny changes in the interpolated z values. W-buffers don't have the same issues.

In order to adjust the z-buffer to 16;24;32 w/ 8bit stencil, go to your display properties (control panel), advanced settings, and look under Direct 3D.