Graphics Accelerators

Graphics Accelerators

Graphics accelerators, also known as graphics processing units (GPUs), are specialized electronic circuits designed to handle the complex computations required for rendering images, videos, and animations on a computer screen. These circuits are responsible for accelerating the creation of visual content by offloading the computational burden from the central processing unit (CPU) of a computer. Graphics accelerators are designed to perform a large number of simple calculations in parallel, which makes them ideal for handling the repetitive tasks involved in rendering graphics. They are optimized for handling large amounts of data, such as the high-resolution textures and 3D models used in modern video games and computer-aided design (CAD) software. The first graphics accelerators were introduced in the 1980s and were used primarily for displaying simple 2D graphics. However, as computer graphics became more complex, the need for more powerful graphics accelerators grew. Today's graphics accelerators are capable of rendering highly detailed 3D graphics in real-time, enabling immersive gaming experiences and advanced visualization in scientific and engineering applications. In addition to their use in desktop and laptop computers, graphics accelerators are also used in other devices such as gaming consoles, smartphones, and virtual reality headsets. They have become an essential component in modern computing, enabling the creation of visually stunning and interactive digital content.

Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), rendering, visual content, parallel computing, 3D graphics

— Andrew Moore

CITATION : "Andrew Moore. 'Graphics Accelerators.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=348943 (Accessed on July 20, 2025)"