How to Find a Computer's Video Memory

A computer's video memory is random access memory dedicated to the task of processing graphics. Some computers have integrated or "onboard" video cards, which do not have video memory, but rather use a portion the system's main RAM as video memory. Stand alone, or dedicated video cards that plug into the motherboard have their own video memory.

Instructions

Check Video Memory with DXdiag

1. Click "Start," then click "Run."

2. Type "dxdiag," then click "OK." Wait a few moments for a diagnostic window to appear.

3. Click the "Display" tab.

4. Check the field called "Approx total memory." This will indicate the amount of memory dedicated toward video use on your system.

Find Information about your Video Card Online

1. Click "Start," "Control Panel," "Administrative Tools," and then "Computer Management."

2. Click on "Device Manager," and then find the field called "Display Adapters," and click the plus (+) sign next to it. Your video card model will be listed here.

3. Search online for your video card model. The manufacturer of your video card should have technical information about your card, including its video memory. Card manufacturers also commonly host downloads for drivers which you can use to update your card.

Tips & Warnings

• Updating the drivers for your video card can help it use memory more efficiently. Dedicated video cards almost always perform better than on board video cards, since on board cards mush share RAM with normal programs and processes.

References

• Using dxdiag

Resources

• CPU-Z diagnostic Resource