People can also switch between two graphics options (either Intel Centrino 2 or Nvidia GeForce) without having to restart the computer. If using Nvidia GeForce graphics chip (GPU), the virtual computing capacity will be higher, but the battery will be replaced faster; while using Intel integrated graphics chip, the opposite.
All GeForce 9M graphics chips support the hybrid graphics feature, but the laptop itself needs to be designed to support this technology. Currently the hybrid graphics feature is only provided for the following laptop models:
- The ultra-light laptop Sony VAIO Z integrates GS GeForce 9300M GPU - Fujitsu Siemens Amilo XI 3650 entertainment laptop series integrated GeForce 9600M GT GPU - BenQ Joybook S42 ultra-light laptop integrated GeForce 9600M GT GPU
To extend battery life, laptops with hybrid graphics feature allow users to choose between two Nvidia GeForce and Intel chipsets. Users can also choose 3D of Nvidia GeForce GPU for virtual computing applications, or just use Intel graphics for simple tasks.
For applications such as Word processing, e-mail without high graphics performance, the battery usage for Sony Z is usually about 5 hours (when selecting Intel graphics). And the important thing is that switching between two graphics modes does not require a PC reboot.
It is known that the consistency between two different hardware architectures (GeForce GPU and Intel Centrino 2) is a collaborative effort between Nvidia, Intel and laptop manufacturers.