Key Takeaways
1. The Radeon RX 9000 series GPUs require UEFI BIOS for optimal performance and features.
2. Older systems using Compatibility Support Module (CSM) may face limitations that hinder GPU potential.
3. UEFI offers advantages like support for larger hard drives, NVMe SSD booting, faster boot times, and enhanced security.
4. Users should disable CSM in BIOS/UEFI settings to fully utilize the RX 9000 series features.
5. While the GPUs will function with CSM, performance and support levels will be suboptimal compared to using UEFI.
AMD has announced that its new Radeon RX 9000 series GPUs, which are designed using the RDNA 4 architecture, are meant to work exclusively with UEFI BIOS. While many computers today use UEFI, some older models still operate on Compatibility Support Module (CSM) mode, which has significant restrictions. These restrictions prevent the Radeon RX 9000 series GPUs from reaching their full potential.
Understanding UEFI vs. Legacy BIOS
According to AMD’s support page, UEFI firmware is essential for modern PCs, and it has replaced the older BIOS standard. Although the terms are often confused, the difference is important. For the new RX 9000 series graphics cards, older systems that rely on CSM will miss out on advanced features like Smart Access Memory (Resizable BAR), which are designed to boost performance and efficiency.
Benefits of UEFI for Gaming
Thus, systems that utilize UEFI will be the only ones capable of maximizing these technologies, ensuring a superior gaming experience alongside the Radeon RX 9000 series GPUs. UEFI also allows for larger hard drives over 2.2TB, NVMe SSD booting, quicker start-up and shutdown times, and better security, among other advantages.
AMD advises users to disable CSM in the BIOS or UEFI settings, typically located under the Boot tab. However, the exact steps can vary depending on the motherboard brand.
Compatibility with Legacy Modes
It’s important to note that the Radeon RX 9000 series GPUs aren’t incompatible with CSM or legacy modes. They will still start up normally and run games, but users may not achieve the promised performance levels or support that come with using UEFI.
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