Frequently Asked Questions About Graphics Memory for Windows 7*, Vista*, XP*, and 2000*

Intel® graphics do not have dedicated memory, they use some of the system memory. The amount of memory used for graphics may be a fixed amount or dynamic amount (varying up to a maximum amount). Graphics memory depends on if your computer manufacturer has configured your computer to use a fixed amount, a dynamic amount, or a combination of both.

Display adapter method
To view your maximum graphics memory:

1. Right-click the desktop.
2. Select the option for Screen Resolution.
3. Open the link for Advanced Settings.
4. The total available graphics memory is listed under Adapter Information in the Adapter tab.

Alternative methods for determining graphics memory
From the list below, choose the version of the Control Panel currently configured on your system.

• Intel® HD Graphics Control Panel

  The Control Panel does not display graphics memory information. Refer to the display adapter method above to find your graphics memory information.

• Intel® Graphics and Media Control Panel
  1. Press Ctrl + Alt + F12 to open the Control Panel.
  2. Select Options and Support from the left tab.
  3. Select Information Center.
  4. Note the amount of graphics memory listed in the System Information.

  Note	Newer versions of the Intel® Graphics and Media Control Panel do not display the graphics memory information. You need to use the Display Adapter method.

   
  
  Figure 2: Graphics memory information as seen in the Intel® Graphics and Media Control Panel


• Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator Driver
  1. Press Ctrl + Alt + F12 to open the Intel® Graphics Control Panel.
  2. Click the Information button in the bottom-left corner. Alternatively, click the i button in the upper right corner of the window.
  3. Note the amount of graphics memory listed in the Maximum Graphics Memory field.
  
  
  Figure 3: Graphics memory information as seen in the Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator Driver

Dynamic Video Memory Technology (DVMT) is a method that dynamically allocates system memory for use as graphics memory. DVMT balances 2-D/3-D graphics and system performance. Graphics memory allocates based on system requirements and application demands (up to the configured maximum amount). When an application no longer needs memory, the dynamically allocated portion returns to the operating system for other uses.

Many graphic-intensive applications (especially games) require a minimum amount of video memory to run correctly, or to run at all. Video memory allocates based on the amount requested by the operating system. When the memory is no longer required, it returns to the operating system for other applications or system functions.

DVMT allocates memory based on system needs. Some newer systems have an option in the system BIOS that adjusts the amount of memory available for DVMT. Memory can allocate up to the maximum limit set by the graphics driver. Unlike previous operating systems, Windows Vista* and Windows 7* have greater control over memory management. They determine the amount of the graphics memory with the Intel® Graphics Driver.

¹The actual amount of maximum graphics memory on your computer can be less than the amounts listed in the above table. The actual amounts greatly depend on the specific configuration of your computer model. Configuration factors may include but are not limited to the following:

• The graphics memory allocation method set by your computer manufacturer.
• Amount of system memory available.
• Amount of pre-allocated memory.
• Operating system.

The best place for obtaining information about your computer configuration is from your computer manufacturer. Your computer manufacturer can alter features, incorporate customizations, or make other changes. These changes may limit or reduce the maximum graphics memory possible for your computer.

In most cases, your computer manufacturer configured your computer to use the maximum amount of graphics memory possible for your particular computer model. This maximum amount may be less than the maximum amount supported by the Intel® integrated graphics product itself. Check with your computer manufacturer for the maximum graphics memory your computer supports. Check if you can increase the amount of graphics memory of your computer.

If you use Windows XP* or Windows 2000*, there may be a setting in your system BIOS to increase your graphics memory to the maximum amount. The maximum amount is often called Maximum DVMT. This setting is not commonly available on laptops. Your computer manufacturer can tell you whether this setting is available.

Adding more physical memory may or may not increase your graphics memory. For example, adding more memory doesn't make a difference if your computer uses a fixed allocation method for the graphics memory. Check with your computer manufacturer for options to increase your graphics memory amount. Check if you can add more system memory.

Upgrading to Windows Vista* or Windows 7* lessens maximum memory. Both operating systems handle memory differently, and they require more system memory than Windows XP and Windows 2000. Windows Vista and Windows 7 have new memory requirements such as support of the Aero* user interface.

Unlike previous operating systems, Windows Vista and Windows 7 have greater control over memory management. Both determine the amount of the graphics memory together with the Intel® Graphics Driver. Check with your computer manufacturer on the maximum graphics memory to expect when using Windows Vista or Windows 7.

The Intel® Graphics Driver Properties window does not have a user-configurable setting to control or increase the amount of graphics memory used by a single application. The amount of graphics memory used dynamically allocates to balance the needs of the operating system and all running applications.