3DMark06 is an all new 3DMark version taking all out of Microsoft’s DirectX 9.0c. The previous version, 3DMark05, was the first benchmark requiring ShaderModel 2.0. However 3DMark05 used DirectX 9 specific features in a slightly limited manner, because fully ShaderModel 3.0 supporting hardware was rare at the time of its development and launch. In contrast, 3DMark06 requires DirectX 9 hardware with full support for at least ShaderModel 2.0 and for some of the tests ShaderModel 3.0, and once again takes shader usage to levels never seen before.
3DMark06 is different in many ways in comparison to its predecessor despite re-using some of the same content. The complexity of the updated graphics tests is raised to new heights by adding more lights, more shadows, more complex geometry etc. The introduction of ShaderModel 3.0 and HDR in two graphics tests are the key elements of 3DMark06. It is also noteworthy that what were called “Game Tests” in previous 3DMark’s, are now being called “Graphics Tests”. This change was made since the graphics tests are optimized for pure graphics performance measurement. In light of this, 3DMark06 now takes into account the CPU result based on the CPU tests when calculating the final 3DMark score. The logic behind this change in philosophy of the 3DMark score is the fact that games are increasingly using more advanced AI and complex physics making the CPU an important part of the gaming performance, and since 3DMark is the Gamers’ Benchmark, it is logical to follow the same path as games. All these changes make 3DMark06 very different from its predecessor 3DMark05, though they might look alike.
3DMark06 also introduces new sub scores in addition to the 3DMark score:
• SM2.0 Score
• HDR/SM3.0 Score
• CPU Score
The sub scores are extremely useful for anyone who wants to compare different graphics card’s or CPU’s performance. The sub scores are as comparable as the overall 3DMark score, but are purely graphics / CPU bound results.
3DMark06 is available as a free Basic Edition, a $19.95 Advanced Edition for home/private use offering expanded features, a playable mini-game and enhanced Online ResultBrowser features, and the $500.00 Professional Edition for commercial use.
Fixes & Updates
3DMark06 Build 1.1.0
* Windows Vista enabled; *)
* Fixed splash screen on Windows Vista;
* Fixed some Excel issues;
* Improved startup speed by optimizing the SystemInfo component;
* Updated SystemInfo component with support for the latest CPU and graphics
hardware;
* Fixed all reported & reproduced issues.
(* = To run the benchmark in Windows Vista 64bit, please run the application
as administrator.
