Computer Assembly Series Part 3 GPU & Power Supply
Graphics Card (GPU) Selection Criteria
The graphics card (GPU) is one of the most important components that determine the graphics processing capabilities of a computer. A powerful graphics card is especially vital for graphics-intensive applications such as gaming, graphic design, video editing and 3D modeling. Here are the main criteria to consider when choosing a graphics card:
Intended Use
When choosing a graphics card, you must first determine your intended use. There are different requirements for gaming, professional business applications and general use:
Gaming: A powerful graphics card is required to play high-performance games. You should choose a suitable GPU to play games in 1080p, 1440p or 4K resolution.
Professional Business Applications: For professional work such as graphic design, video editing and 3D modeling, graphics cards with high computing power should be preferred.
General Use: A mid-level graphics card may be sufficient for general use such as daily tasks, web browsing and media viewing.
GPU Brand and Model
Among video card manufacturers, NVIDIA and AMD are the most popular brands. Both brands offer a wide range of products at various performance levels. NVIDIA’s GeForce series and AMD’s Radeon series are popular choices for gaming and professional use.
Also, different models of each brand offer different performance levels, so it’s important to choose the latest and appropriate model.
VRAM Capacity
The VRAM (Video RAM) capacity of the video card determines how much data it can store for graphics processing. Higher resolution and detailed graphics require more VRAM. Common VRAM capacities:
4 GB: Sufficient for general use and low to mid-level games.
6 GB – 8 GB: Ideal for mid-high end games and graphics processing.
10 GB and above: Required for high resolution and professional work.
- Core Speed and CUDA Cores/Stream Processors
The core speed of the video card determines how fast the GPU runs. In addition, CUDA cores for NVIDIA GPUs and Stream processors for AMD GPUs indicate the processing capacity of the GPU. More cores and higher core speed leads to better performance. - Cooling and Power Consumption
Video cards can get hot during intensive graphics processing. Therefore, a good cooling system (fans or liquid cooling) is essential. Also, the power consumption of the video card should match the power supply of your computer. For cards with high power consumption, you should have an adequate power supply. - Connection Options
It is important that your video card has connection options compatible with your monitor. Common connection types:
HDMI: Transmits high-definition video and audio.
DisplayPort: Supports higher resolution and refresh rate.
DVI and VGA: Connection options compatible with older monitors.
- Ray Tracing and DLSS Support
Important for modern games and applications, technologies like ray tracing and DLSS provide more realistic graphics and higher performance. NVIDIA’s RTX series cards support ray tracing and DLSS. These technologies play a big role in improving visual quality. - Price and Budget
When choosing a graphics card, you should consider your budget. High-end graphics cards offer high performance, but they also come at a high cost. It’s important to find a balance that suits your needs and budget. - Invest for the Future
Video cards are usually components that can be used for a long time. Therefore, it can be worthwhile to make a forward-looking investment with your future needs in mind. A graphics card with higher performance and features gives you an advantage in meeting future software and gaming requirements.
Conclusion
Choosing a graphics card is an important decision that determines the graphics performance of your computer. Considering criteria such as intended use, brand and model, VRAM capacity, core speed, cooling and power consumption, connectivity options, ray tracing and DLSS support, price and budget, you can choose the best graphics card for your needs.
Power Supply (PSU) Selection
The power supply (PSU), which provides the necessary energy to every component of the computer, is vital for a stable and reliable system. Choosing the right PSU directly affects the performance of the computer and the lifespan of its components. Here are some important criteria and issues to consider when choosing a PSU:
Power Supply Wattage Calculation
Calculating the total power consumption of your computer’s components is the first step to choosing a PSU with the right wattage. Here are some basic steps for this calculation:
Determine the Power Consumption of Components:
Processor (CPU): TDP (Thermal Design Power) value specified by the manufacturer.
Graphics Card (GPU): Maximum power consumption, usually provided by the manufacturer.
Motherboard: Typically 30-50 watts.
Memory (RAM): Approximately 2-5 watts per module.
Storage (HDD/SSD): Approximately 6-10 watts per HDD, 2-4 watts per SSD.
Other Components: Additional power consumption should be calculated for optical drives, fans and other accessories.
Calculate Total Power Consumption:
Determine your total power requirement by summing the power consumption of all components.
For example, in a system:
CPU: 95 watts
GPU 200 watts
Motherboard: 40 watts
RAM: 8 watts (4 x 2 watts)
Storage: 10 watts (HDD) + 4 watts (SSD)
Other 20 watts
Total: 377 watts
Redundancy in Power Supply Selection:
It is important to add a safe reserve margin. Generally, determine the PSU wattage by adding 20-30% to the total power consumption.
For example, 377 watts x 1.3 = 490 watts. In this case, a PSU of 500 watts or above would be appropriate.
Modular and Non-Modular PSUs
Power supplies fall into two main categories: modular and non-modular:
Non-Modular PSU:
All cables are permanently connected to the PSU.
More cost-effective, but cable management can be difficult.
All cables take up space inside the chassis, whether they are used or not.
Modular PSU:
Cables can be removed and only the necessary ones installed.
More expensive, but provides better cable management and airflow.
Cleaning and upgrades are easier.
Semi-Modular PSU:
Some cables are permanently connected (usually motherboard and CPU power cables).
Other cables are detachable.
Provides both cost-effective and flexible cable management.
Efficiency and Certifications
The efficiency of power supplies is important for energy savings and reliability. Efficiency ratings are indicated by the 80 PLUS certification. High efficiency PSUs result in less energy loss and less heat generation.
80 PLUS: 80% efficiency.
80 PLUS Bronze: 82-85% efficiency.
80 PLUS Silver: 85-88% efficiency.
80 PLUS Gold: 87-90% efficiency.
80 PLUS Platinum: 90-92% efficiency.
80 PLUS Titanium: 92-94% efficiency.