By Jim Evans
I’m reminded that when I do what I do best and don’t try to be all things to all people, I get much more accomplished. Interestingly, I’ve found that the same approach applies to server storage system controllers – and to the home PC I use for photo editing.
The question many of us face is whether it’s best to use an integrated or discrete solution. Think digital television. Do you want a TV with an integrated DVD player, or do you prefer a feature-rich, dedicated player that you can upgrade and replace independent of the TV? I’ve pondered a similar question many times when considering my PC: do I use a motherboard with an integrated graphics controller or go with a discrete graphics adapter card.
If I look only at initial costs and am satisfied with the performance of my display for day-to-day computing activities, I could go with the integrated controller, something that many consumers do. But my needs aren’t that simple. I need multiple displays, higher screen resolution, higher display system performance, and the ability to upgrade and tune the graphics to my applications. To do these things, I go with a separate discrete graphics controller card.