Physical graphics switch on the Vaio SZ-110B (credits: AnandTech) But unlike the MUX switches of today, the first generation implementation was much more complicated. On the surface, the idea seems pretty similar, as the laptop had a switch that could transform the computer’s characteristics by changing graphics drivers. The first implementation of the MUX switch was done by Sony on the VAIO SZ-110B, which was launched back in April 2006. The thing is that, like all forms of technology, the current MUX switch, while resembling the old, is now much more advanced in the way it works. With that said, you must be asking yourself – if the MUX switch is an old technology, why is it re-emerging now of all times? This is exactly what we will look at in this section. The current conception of the MUX switch that manufacturers have been calling a “new feature” is, essentially, an old one. It’s been born and reborn again multiple times in the past few decades. It is a story akin to that of the Ouroboros. Now that we have taken a look at what the MUX switch is, we want to bring forth this feature’s interesting historical trajectory. The reason why this has occurred is a question that we can answer only if one looks at the historical antecedent, which is something that we explore in our next section. The modern MUX switch is simply a solution to this peculiar problem. But lately, with the improving graphics performance of discrete GPUs, the iGPU is starting to act as a bottleneck for the dGPU. These different GPUs normally co-exist together in modern gaming laptops, organically switching (more on this later) between each other to give the user the optimal experience. They also have different power requirements, with the iGPU usually being a low-powered chip, while the dGPU is more power-hungry. The dGPU (dedicated graphics processor), on the other hand, is a full-blown graphics chip (installed separately from the CPU) capable of carrying out high-performance tasks such as gaming or video rendering. It is a weaker graphics chip used for basic tasks like video streaming, running the OS’ GUI, and other similar tasks. The iGPU is the graphics processor that’s usually located on the same die as the CPU. Now for people who aren’t well versed with laptop nomenclature, iGPU and dGPU refer to the different graphics processors that are in your laptop. In current-gen gaming laptops, the MUX switch takes the form of a dedicated microchip that is placed between the iGPU and the dGPU. Short for “ Multiplexer“, the MUX is nothing but a toggle that allows users the choice to run their laptop display either through the iGPU (also called Optimus or hybrid mode) or through the discrete GPU. Should You Buy a Laptop with a MUX Switch Right Now?īefore we look at the fascinating history of the MUX switch, we should first have a clear idea about what it is. What If My Laptop with a Dedicated GPU Doesn’t Have GPU Switch Option?.What Are the Disadvantages of MUX Switch?.Can You Install a Mux Switch After Buying a Laptop?.How to Turn on or off MUX Switch in Gaming Laptop?.Search Official Support Page or Online Forums.How Do I Check If My Laptop Has a MUX Switch?.Nvidia Advanced Optimus vs Hardware MUX Switch.
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