Ramifications of disabling switchable graphics

Discussion in 'MacBook Pro' started by smc333, Mar 6, 2011.

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  1. smc333, Mar 6, 2011

    smc333 macrumors regular

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    Jan 24, 2010
    Location:
    Boston, MA
    #1
    Hi everyone, so I just picked myself up a 15" Macbook Pro 2010:

    i5 2.4
    8GB RAM
    500GB 7200RPM
    330M/256MB
    15" 1440x900

    Anyway, I do the following:
    -Use this on my desk (70%)
    -Use this at work (25%)
    -Bring it to the lab(5%)

    I almost never run on battery. Would it (heat?) hurt anything to disable switchable graphics while it is plugged in (256mb more ram free, plus transitions are a little smoother this way).

    Thanks,
    smc333
     
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  2. got2go, Mar 6, 2011

    got2go macrumors member

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    Jul 23, 2010
    #2
    It wont hurt the system any, but it is not recommended to leave it plugged in all the time. That will effect the life of the battery. Its a laptop so the battery is designed to be cycled.
     
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  3. axu539, Mar 6, 2011

    axu539 macrumors 6502a

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    #3
    You'll probably end up running 10C or so higher on average, with the maximum temperature being the same as on integrated graphics. If you're not planning on running it from battery or actually on your lap, turning off graphics switching is probably better, as it'll eliminate random issues with certain programs when your graphics are switched.
     
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  4. axu539, Mar 6, 2011

    axu539 macrumors 6502a

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    #4
    I believe if he leaves it plugged in most of the time, and just fully discharges it once a month, the battery will be fine. I did this with my last MBP for 2.5 years, and when I sold it, the battery was still at 96-97% health (fluctuated a little).
     
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  5. mschissler, Mar 6, 2011

    mschissler macrumors newbie

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    Mar 6, 2011
    #5
    pro: the 6750 is much better in displaying fine gradients. so the overall appearence will improve.
     
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  6. smc333, Mar 6, 2011

    smc333 thread starter macrumors regular

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    Location:
    Boston, MA
    #6
    I generally cycle the battery once every two weeks for just that reason. And when on battery, I will switch back to Intel graphics.

    But its good to know it won't hurt anything, so I will keep it this way, smoother transitions, smoother everything. Plus as someone said, no worrying about any software related glitches.

    Good to know, more info always welcome.

    Thanks.
     
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