What is MUX Switch? How does it work for a gaming laptop?

A mux switch allows you to use the full potential of a dedicated GPU, especially for gaming laptops. Let's learn how to enable Mux Switch on different laptops.

Computer games have evolved a lot. From laptops that only have integrated GPUs to laptops that now have mobile versions of dedicated GPUs, there have been many improvements between the two. New laptops with Nvidia and AMD GPUs now have a Mux Switch. Here you will learn about Mux Switch and how to enable Mux Switch on different laptops.

What is a (multiplexer) Mux Switch? How does it work for a gaming laptop?

What does the Mux switcher do? Let you choose between using integrated graphics or dedicated graphics. It is a new feature available on most of the latest 2024 laptops. It is a switch built into the motherboard, in particular gaming laptops. In short, a MUX Switch allows you to use the full potential of a dedicated GPU, especially for gaming laptops, by disabling the integrated Graphics Processing Unit (GPU).

Depending on your usage and how heavy the task is, you may want to use a switch. This switch cannot be installed or downloaded on your laptop as it is a hardware feature.

Also, depending on the brand of laptop, you will be able to use the multiplexer in different ways. Some laptops will have their own switch control software, while others may have this option in the BIOS menu.

By enabling the MUX switch, you will be able to immediately send all rendered objects from the dedicated GPU to the laptop display. It no longer needs to go through the onboard GPU to display output on the screen.

Additionally, you can select a dedicated GPU to be used if you are using an external display.

Using a dedicated GPU is useful when you can do intensive graphics work. While you’re getting more power from a dedicated GPU, you’re losing a lot of backup battery, but then it would be wise to plug your laptop into a power source.

Using the MUX switch will also provide good performance in your games. For example, you can get from 10 to 30% improvements. Now that you know how useful the MUX switch is? Let’s see how you can use the MUX switch on different brands of laptops.

Why to Use MUX Switch on Your Laptop?

Mux switches offer several advantages in telecommunications, networking, and various other fields. These advantages make them a crucial component of modern infrastructure. Here, we will delve into the numerous benefits of using mux switches, exploring their impact on resource optimization, network efficiency, scalability, and more. So let’s explore the advantages of mux switches in detail.

  1. Resource Optimization: One of the primary advantages of using mux switches is resource optimization. These devices allow the efficient utilization of network resources by combining multiple input channels onto a single output channel. By consolidating traffic, mux switches reduce the number of physical connections and the overall complexity of the network infrastructure. This leads to better resource allocation, reduced hardware costs, and improved overall performance.
  2. Increased Bandwidth Efficiency: Mux switches enable efficient utilization of available bandwidth by multiplexing multiple signals onto a single transmission medium. Through techniques like time-division multiplexing (TDM) or frequency-division multiplexing (FDM), mux switches divide the available bandwidth into discrete time slots or frequency sub-bands, accommodating multiple data streams simultaneously. This results in increased bandwidth efficiency, as more data can be transmitted over the same transmission medium.
  3. Simplified Infrastructure: Mux switches simplify network infrastructures by consolidating multiple connections into a centralized device. Instead of having separate point-to-point connections between each source and destination, mux switches enable the sharing of a single connection among multiple devices or users. This simplification reduces the complexity of cabling, equipment, and overall network management. Additionally, it streamlines troubleshooting and maintenance processes since there are fewer physical connections to manage.
  4. Scalability: Mux switches provide scalability, allowing networks to easily accommodate additional devices or users. As the number of input sources or output destinations increases, mux switches can handle the expansion by adding more input ports or output ports. This scalability makes mux switches suitable for growing networks that need to adapt to evolving requirements without significant infrastructure changes. It enables seamless integration of new devices or users into the network without disrupting existing connections.
  5. Flexibility and Versatility: Mux switches offer flexibility and versatility in managing different types of signals and protocols. They can handle various signal formats, such as analog, digital, or specific data formats. Mux switches can be customized to support different communication protocols, including voice, data, video, and control signals. This flexibility allows mux switches to be deployed in diverse applications, ranging from traditional telephony systems to data centers and video broadcasting.
  6. Improved Network Performance: By efficiently managing and routing data or signals, mux switches contribute to improved network performance. They ensure that data reaches its intended destination without interference or delays. With reduced network congestion and optimized resource allocation, mux switches help maintain high data transmission speeds and low latency, leading to improved overall network performance and user experience.
  7. Cost Savings: Mux switches can lead to cost savings in several ways. Firstly, by consolidating multiple connections into a centralized device, mux switches reduce the need for extensive cabling, which can be expensive to install and maintain. Secondly, mux switches enable efficient utilization of network resources, which can result in reduced hardware requirements and lower operational costs. Additionally, the scalability of mux switches allows networks to expand without significant infrastructure overhauls, saving both time and money.
  8. Reliability and Redundancy: Mux switches can enhance network reliability by providing redundancy and failover capabilities. Some mux switches offer built-in redundancy features, allowing for the automatic switching to backup connections in case of failures. This redundancy ensures uninterrupted communication and minimizes downtime, critical for mission-critical applications and services. Additionally, mux switches can provide fault detection and isolation, helping identify and resolve issues quickly.
  9. Integration with Modern Technologies: Mux switches can integrate seamlessly with modern technologies, enabling their efficient use. With the emergence of technologies like 5G, the Internet of Things (IoT), and cloud computing, mux switches play a crucial role in facilitating the smooth transmission of data and signals. They can handle high-speed data, support fiber optic connections, and accommodate the increased demands of bandwidth-intensive applications.
  10. Centralized Control and Management: Mux switches offer centralized control and management capabilities, simplifying network administration. Through a centralized management interface, network administrators can configure and monitor the mux switch, control the routing of data or signals, and manage network resources efficiently. This centralized control enhances network visibility, improves troubleshooting processes, and enables effective resource allocation.

Types of Mux Switches

There are several types of mux switches available, each designed for specific applications and operating environments:

  • Analog mux switch: Used for analog signals, such as audio or video, these switches combine multiple input sources into a single output channel.
  • Digital mux switch: Designed for digital signals, these switches use digital multiplexing techniques to route data from multiple sources to a single output.
  • Fiber optic mux switch: These switches work with fiber optic cables and enable the routing of high-speed data over long distances.
  • Ethernet mux switch: Specifically designed for Ethernet networks, these switches provide the capability to combine or separate Ethernet connections.

How to enable MUX Switch on different laptops

1
Enable Mux Switch on ASUS Laptops

mux-switch-asus

All ASUS 2021 gaming series laptops are equipped with a MUX switch. You can find this option in the weapon crate.

It will be visible in the System Configuration menu.

2
Enable Mux Switch on Acer

Acer’s Predator gaming laptop series features Predator Sense, a software developed by Acer for its Predator gaming laptops.

All you need to do is launch the software and then click the “Settings” icon. Just toggle the switch to where it says Discrete GPU Only.

3
Enable Mux Switch on Lenovo

Lenovo’s Legion series of gaming laptops also uses its own software whenever you want to switch GPUs. Just launch the Lenovo vantage app, and you will see the hybrid mode option. Toggle it to turn it on or turn it off to turn it off.

4
Enable Mux Switch on Aorus

Aorus is a gaming brand from Gigabyte. They also make a range of gaming laptops. All Aorus gaming laptops with Mux Switch support can use the Aorus Control Center. The option will be available under the Manage tab and appear as Graphics Switcher. Click on it to change modes.

5
Enable Mux Switch on MSI

MSI has several series of gaming laptops. If you use one that has a MUX switch, you will be able to use it through MSI Dragon Center, a software developed by MSI for use on devices with a MUX switch. Click on the Switch GPU option to change which GPU you want to use.

6
Enable Mux Switch on HP

HP has its own sub-brand of gaming laptops under the OMEN brand. All compatible Omen laptops with MUX switches can use the Omen Gaming Hub software. This switch is available under the Graphics Switcher tab, where you can choose which GPU you want to select.

7
Enable Mux Switch on Razer

Razer is a famous gaming brand that produces gaming peripherals and laptops. These gaming laptops use Synapse. Software developed by Razer to control your gaming laptop. If your Razer laptop has a MUX switch, you can use this software to switch from an integrated GPU to a discrete one.

8
Enable Mux Switch on Dell and Alienware

Now, if you have a laptop with a MUX switch but no special software to enable it, you will need to boot into the laptop’s BIOS menu and enable it from there. It should be present under the “Advanced” tab and appear as “Enable Hybrid Graphics.”

9
Other brands

Some other third-party gaming laptop brands will use the Control Center software, which can be used to switch from iGPU to dGPU. This option only appears if your laptop has a MUX switch.

Final Verdict

And that’s all you need to know about MUX switches on gaming laptops. I hope this guide has helped you learn how to turn on and switch your GPUs and show you which next MUX Switch gaming laptop you should consider for your next purchase. Let me know in the comments below if you have a laptop with a MUX switch.

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