6

Integrated Graphics Subsystem

6.1Introduction

This chapter describes the graphics subsystem that includes the integrated graphics controller of the Intel Celeron, Pentium or Core i3/i5/i7processor. The integrated graphics subsystem employs the use of system memory to provide efficient, economical 2D and 3D performance.

All systems provide dual-monitor support in the standard configuration. These systems can be upgraded by installing a PCIe x16 graphics card in the PCIe x16 graphics slot, which disables the integrated graphics controller

This chapter covers the following subjects:

■Functional description (6.2)

■Upgrading (6.3)

■Monitor connectors (6.4)

6.2Functional Description

The integrated HD Graphics controller (hereafter referred to as an internal graphics controller or IGC) featured in the processors supported by these systems operates off the internal PCIe x16 bus of the processor and, through the Flexible Display Interface (FDI) and the PCH-DO component, can drive an external analog multi-scan monitor and/or a DisplayPort-compatible digital monitor. The IGC includes a memory management feature that allocates portions of system memory for use as the frame buffer and for storing textures and 3D effects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Intel Processor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PCIe

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IGC

 

 

PCIe 2.0 x16 Graphics slot

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I/F

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FDI

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Analog RGB

 

 

PCH-D0

 

Monitor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Digital DisplayPort

Monitor

PCIe 2.0 x4 slot (x16 conn.)

Figure 6-1. Integrated Graphics Subsystem, Block diagram

Technical Reference Guide

www.hp.com

6-1