GEFORCE

NVIDIA GeForce 9600 GSO 512

NVIDIA graphics card specifications and benchmark scores

512 MB
VRAM
MHz Boost
90W
TDP
256
Bus Width

NVIDIA GeForce 9600 GSO 512 Specifications

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GeForce 9600 GSO 512 GPU Core

Shader units and compute resources

The NVIDIA GeForce 9600 GSO 512 GPU core specifications define its raw processing power for graphics and compute workloads. Shading units (also called CUDA cores, stream processors, or execution units depending on manufacturer) handle the parallel calculations required for rendering. TMUs (Texture Mapping Units) process texture data, while ROPs (Render Output Units) handle final pixel output. Higher shader counts generally translate to better GPU benchmark performance, especially in demanding games and 3D applications.

Shading Units
48
Shaders
48
TMUs
24
ROPs
16
SM Count
6
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9600 GSO 512 Clock Speeds

GPU and memory frequencies

Clock speeds directly impact the GeForce 9600 GSO 512's performance in GPU benchmarks and real-world gaming. The base clock represents the minimum guaranteed frequency, while the boost clock indicates peak performance under optimal thermal conditions. Memory clock speed affects texture loading and frame buffer operations. The GeForce 9600 GSO 512 by NVIDIA dynamically adjusts frequencies based on workload, temperature, and power limits to maximize performance while maintaining stability.

GPU Clock
650 MHz
Memory Clock
900 MHz 1800 Mbps effective
Shader Clock
1625 MHz
GDDR GDDR 6X 6X

NVIDIA's GeForce 9600 GSO 512 Memory

VRAM capacity and bandwidth

VRAM (Video RAM) is dedicated memory for storing textures, frame buffers, and shader data. The GeForce 9600 GSO 512's memory capacity determines how well it handles high-resolution textures and multiple displays. Memory bandwidth, measured in GB/s, affects how quickly data moves between the GPU and VRAM. Higher bandwidth improves performance in memory-intensive scenarios like 4K gaming. The memory bus width and type (GDDR6, GDDR6X, HBM) significantly influence overall GPU benchmark scores.

Memory Size
512 MB
VRAM
512 MB
Memory Type
GDDR3
VRAM Type
GDDR3
Memory Bus
256 bit
Bus Width
256-bit
Bandwidth
57.60 GB/s
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GeForce 9600 GSO 512 by NVIDIA Cache

On-chip cache hierarchy

On-chip cache provides ultra-fast data access for the 9600 GSO 512, reducing the need to fetch data from slower VRAM. L1 and L2 caches store frequently accessed data close to the compute units. AMD's Infinity Cache (L3) dramatically increases effective bandwidth, improving GPU benchmark performance without requiring wider memory buses. Larger cache sizes help maintain high frame rates in memory-bound scenarios and reduce power consumption by minimizing VRAM accesses.

L2 Cache
64 KB
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9600 GSO 512 Theoretical Performance

Compute and fill rates

Theoretical performance metrics provide a baseline for comparing the NVIDIA GeForce 9600 GSO 512 against other graphics cards. FP32 (single-precision) performance, measured in TFLOPS, indicates compute capability for gaming and general GPU workloads. FP64 (double-precision) matters for scientific computing. Pixel and texture fill rates determine how quickly the GPU can render complex scenes. While real-world GPU benchmark results depend on many factors, these specifications help predict relative performance levels.

FP32 (Float)
156.0 GFLOPS
Pixel Rate
10.40 GPixel/s
Texture Rate
15.60 GTexel/s
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Tesla Architecture & Process

Manufacturing and design details

The NVIDIA GeForce 9600 GSO 512 is built on NVIDIA's Tesla architecture, which defines how the GPU processes graphics and compute workloads. The manufacturing process node affects power efficiency, thermal characteristics, and maximum clock speeds. Smaller process nodes pack more transistors into the same die area, enabling higher performance per watt. Understanding the architecture helps predict how the 9600 GSO 512 will perform in GPU benchmarks compared to previous generations.

Architecture
Tesla
GPU Name
G94
Process Node
65 nm
Foundry
TSMC
Transistors
505 million
Die Size
240 mm²
Density
2.1M / mm²
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NVIDIA's GeForce 9600 GSO 512 Power & Thermal

TDP and power requirements

Power specifications for the NVIDIA GeForce 9600 GSO 512 determine PSU requirements and thermal management needs. TDP (Thermal Design Power) indicates the heat output under typical loads, guiding cooler selection. Power connector requirements ensure adequate power delivery for stable operation during demanding GPU benchmarks. The suggested PSU wattage accounts for the entire system, not just the graphics card. Efficient power delivery enables the GeForce 9600 GSO 512 to maintain boost clocks without throttling.

TDP
90 W
TDP
90W
Power Connectors
1x 6-pin
Suggested PSU
250 W
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GeForce 9600 GSO 512 by NVIDIA Physical & Connectivity

Dimensions and outputs

Physical dimensions of the NVIDIA GeForce 9600 GSO 512 are critical for case compatibility. Card length, height, and slot width determine whether it fits in your chassis. The PCIe interface version affects bandwidth for communication with the CPU. Display outputs define monitor connectivity options, with modern cards supporting multiple high-resolution displays simultaneously. Verify these specifications against your case and motherboard before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.

Slot Width
Single-slot
Length
229 mm 9 inches
Bus Interface
PCIe 2.0 x16
Display Outputs
2x DVI1x S-Video
Display Outputs
2x DVI1x S-Video
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NVIDIA API Support

Graphics and compute APIs

API support determines which games and applications can fully utilize the NVIDIA GeForce 9600 GSO 512. DirectX 12 Ultimate enables advanced features like ray tracing and variable rate shading. Vulkan provides cross-platform graphics capabilities with low-level hardware access. OpenGL remains important for professional applications and older games. CUDA (NVIDIA) and OpenCL enable GPU compute for video editing, 3D rendering, and scientific applications. Higher API versions unlock newer graphical features in GPU benchmarks and games.

DirectX
11.1 (10_0)
DirectX
11.1 (10_0)
OpenGL
3.3
OpenGL
3.3
OpenCL
1.1
CUDA
1.1
Shader Model
4.0
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GeForce 9600 GSO 512 Product Information

Release and pricing details

The NVIDIA GeForce 9600 GSO 512 is manufactured by NVIDIA as part of their graphics card lineup. Release date and launch pricing provide context for comparing GPU benchmark results with competing products from the same era. Understanding the product lifecycle helps evaluate whether the GeForce 9600 GSO 512 by NVIDIA represents good value at current market prices. Predecessor and successor information aids in tracking generational improvements and planning future upgrades.

Manufacturer
NVIDIA
Release Date
Oct 2008
Production
End-of-life
Predecessor
GeForce 8
Successor
GeForce 200

GeForce 9600 GSO 512 Benchmark Scores

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No benchmark data available for this GPU.

About NVIDIA GeForce 9600 GSO 512

The NVIDIA GeForce 9600 GSO 512 (NVIDIA) may feel like a relic, but its 512 MB of GDDR3 memory still packs a nostalgic punch for retro workstation builds. Launched back in October 2008, it rides on the 65 nm Tesla architecture and plugs into a PCIe 2.0 x16 slot, delivering a modest 90 W TDP. While you won’t be crushing modern AAA titles, the card’s 512 MB VRAM can still handle lightweight CAD sketches and basic texture mapping. Its legacy driver support means you can squeeze out stable performance on older professional software. Think of it as a vintage workhorse that’s surprisingly reliable for its age.

When it comes to professional workloads, the GeForce 9600 GSO 512 from NVIDIA shines in niche scenarios like legacy 3D rendering pipelines and educational labs. The card’s modest bandwidth is enough for low‑poly models and simple shading tasks, making it a decent entry point for students learning the ropes. Because it’s built on the Tesla core, you still get decent driver stability for OpenGL‑based applications. It won’t replace a modern RTX beast, but for hobbyist animation projects or quick prototype renders, it’s a cost‑effective option. Plus, the low power draw keeps your workstation’s energy bill chill, which is always a win for eco‑conscious millennials.

Enterprise features are limited, yet the 9600 GSO 512 offers a few professional certifications that matter in legacy environments. Some older CAD suites still list it as a supported GPU, and its PCIe 2.0 interface ensures compatibility with a wide range of older motherboards. The card’s straightforward design means fewer firmware quirks, translating to smoother driver updates in legacy OSes. If your workflow relies on tried‑and‑true software stacks, this GPU can be a surprisingly stable backbone. It’s a reminder that you don’t always need the latest silicon to get the job done.

Benchmark data is scarce, so we lean on real‑world testing vibes to gauge its workstation chops. In practice, you’ll see frame rates hovering around 30‑40 FPS on basic 3D scenes, which is acceptable for design reviews but not for intensive simulations. The card’s 90 W TDP keeps heat low, so you can run it in compact cases without aggressive cooling. Overall, it’s a nostalgic yet functional piece for budget‑conscious creators who value stability over raw power.

  1. Legacy driver support for older professional software.
  2. Low power consumption (90 W) ideal for quiet workstations.
  3. PCIe 2.0 x16 compatibility with a wide range of motherboards.
  4. 512 MB GDDR3 memory sufficient for basic 3D rendering and CAD tasks.

The AMD Equivalent of GeForce 9600 GSO 512

Looking for a similar graphics card from AMD? The AMD Radeon RX 480 offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.

AMD Radeon RX 480

AMD • 8 GB VRAM

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