A half-height video card is a smaller version of a standard video card used to fit into smaller computer cases or improve cooling. They have the same capabilities as full-height cards. Video cards are added to enhance functionality and come in different sizes and slot configurations. Reasons for using a half-height video card include physical constraints of the computer case and improving cooling. Adding a video card may be necessary for advanced gaming or dual displays, but a half-height card may not be feasible for these purposes.
A half-height video card is simply a computer video card that is shorter than a standard or full-height video card. These cards may be needed to fit into a small computer case or they may be used to help the computer fan keep the computer cool. Many of these video cards have the same capabilities as standard full-height cards; the only difference is its size. A half-height video card is sometimes called a low-profile video card.
All personal computers (PCs) built since about 1980 contain expansion slots that allow the user to add or enhance functionality. These include, but are not limited to, network cards, modems, serial and parallel adapters, and video cards. These cards come in various slot configurations to match what’s in your computer, and come in different sizes, such as half-height and full-height.
There are several reasons to use a half-height video card. The most obvious is to fit within the physical constraints of the computer case. Some mini-towers are smaller in stature and must use video cards that are smaller than the standard size.
Another reason to use a smaller video card is to improve computer cooling via the fan. Full-height video cards can restrict airflow, especially to other expansion cards that may be behind the video card. A standard video card is about 4 inches (10 cm) tall, and a half-height video card is typically about 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) tall.
A video card is part of the standard computer configuration, and almost all computers have video cards built into the motherboard. The reason for adding a second video card may drive the decision between a full-height video card and a half-height video card. The most common reason for adding a video card to a system is simply that the original card has stopped working or has become obsolete. An example of this would be adding a modern monitor to a system that only supports Video Graphics Array (VGA). In these cases, buying and using an inexpensive video card may be your best bet.
At the other end of the spectrum are users who want to use the computer for advanced gaming. In this case, the video card that came with your computer may be underpowered for the games you are playing. This can cause issues with resolution and refresh rate, making games look blurry or slow. A professional video card or gaming video card may be required for these users. The extra power and memory these cards provide is more than a standard video card, so a half-height video card may not be feasible.
Another reason to add a video card is for users who want or need dual displays. This allows you to connect two monitors to your computer. Often one will be a standard monitor and the other will be a large flat screen or high definition (HD) monitor. For these users, a dual monitor video card may be required to provide the additional power and throughput needed for these advanced uses.
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