Posted on Sunday, September 09 2012 @ 16:15 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck
This week TechARP discusses the Frame Buffer Size BIOS setting, you can learn about it
over here.
This BIOS feature controls the amount of system memory that is allocated to the integrated graphics processor when the system boots up. However, its effect depends on whether your motherboard supports the older Unified Memory Architecture (UMA) or the new Dynamic Video Memory Technology (DVMT).
If you have a motherboard that supports UMA, the memory size you select determines the maximum amount of system memory that is allocated to the graphics processor. Once allocated, it can only be used as graphics memory. It is no longer accessible to the operating system or applications.
Therefore, it is recommended that you select the absolute minimum amount of system memory that the graphics processor requires for your monitor. You can calculate it by multiplying the resolution and colour depth that you are using. Of course, if you intend to play 3D games, you will need to allocate more memory.
If you have a motherboard that supports DVMT, the memory size you select determines the maximum amount of system memory that is pre-allocated to the graphics processor. Once allocated, it can only be used as graphics memory. It is no longer accessible to the operating system or applications.
However, unlike in a UMA system, this memory is only allocated for use during the boot process or with MS-DOS or legacy operating systems. Additional system memory is allocated only after the graphics driver is loaded. It is recommended that you set it to 8MB as this allows for high-resolution splash screens as well as higher resolutions in MS-DOS applications and games.
