Dell Alienware M17x R3 (Early 2011) - Manual (Page 52)

CHAPTER 3: USING YOUR LAPTOP
50
nVidia Optimus Technology (Optional)
NOTE: The nVidia optimus technology is not supported on computers that use nVidia 3D
vision.
Your Alienware M17x laptop is equipped with the nVidia Optimus technology. The Optimus
technology is designed to maximize performance and user experience on your computer,
while minimizing the impact on battery life. It enables you to combine the graphic processing
capability of the integrated Intel graphic processing unit (GPU) with the discrete nVidia GPUv
while running graphic-intensive applications such as 3-D games. The nVidia GPU is turned on
only for preset applications and thus extends the battery life.
The Optimus technology is enabled through an application profile. When an application is
launched, the video drivers check to see if the application has a profile associated with it.
• If an application profile exists, the nVidia GPU is turned on and the application runs in
performance mode. The nVidia GPU is turned off automatically when the application is
closed.
• If an application profile does not exist, the integrated Intel GPU is used.
The default list of application profiles is updated frequently by nVidia and is automatically
downloaded to your computer when you are connected to the Internet.