having 256 mb of video mem, and having a 256 mb architecture is diffrernt?

Question

I want to buy a 512 card, but it says 128 bit architecture

Answer 1

The memory number refers to how many millions of bytes (characters) the card can hold right on the card. (without using system memory) More is better/faster!

The architecture number refers to how many bits of data can be passed on at one time. Think of 128 bit architecture like a 128 lane highway where 128 cars (bits) can travel by at once. More is better/faster here too.

Most pc's in use today have a 32 bit architecture, although 64 bit machines are becoming more common. Since video cards may need to run faster for gaming or DVD's, the cards may be set up to run their part faster than the pc itself.

Answer 2

First, I answered part of this before. I'm telling you right now you are better off getting a card with better specs that has 256MB of memory. More memory is not better in the case of graphic cards, I can send you the technical explanation later, if you want it, ask me. The memory interface is 128-bit, higher end cards will have a memory interface of 256-bit.

That being said, look at the benchmarks of 512MB cards vs. higher end 256MB cards, the 256MB cards will trounce them... every time unless we are talking about a 512MB 7900GTX.

Answer 3

What card do you want to buy?

I don't think the bit achitecture matters. Just make sure when you are buying the video card the interface matches your motherboard. (AGP 8x, PCI-Express x16) And your power supply is powerful enough to support the card.