What are shaders?

[steve sr1]

I've seen the term 'shader model' in a lot of places, but I don't understand what it is. Can anyone please explain?

 

[Rustyy117]

tried google.com?

 

[mactronix]

Take a look at these
http://www.beyond3d.com/content/reviews/47
http://www.beyond3d.com/content/reviews/1/14

They cover the archetecture of the older cards, ATI have made some improvements but its basically the same.
The Fermi cards will be differant from what you have there for the G80.

Any questions please ask

Mactronix