(Credit: LucidLogix)

Not content with its hardware solution to mix and match GPUs from AMD and Nvidia, LucidLogix has dipped its toes into GPU virtualisation software.

Taking a cue from Nvidia's Optimus laptop technology, Lucid's Virtu brings seamless switchable graphics to the desktop, using the integrated Intel graphics during low-power tasks and HD movies, and a discrete AMD or Nvidia card for heftier tasks. The requirements? You need a Sandy Bridge processor, and your monitor has to be connected to the motherboard's video out rather than that of your discrete graphics card.

Whereas the Optimus benefits include the incredibly important increased battery life, Virtu can only lay claim to the by-products of power and heat reduction due to its desktop focus. Still, we're sure some businesses will be happy with the potential energy costs saved here.

There is already a beta demo of the software available, and the company intends to showcase its product at CES 2011 next week.