Maya Composite won't start - you get a "pixel format error"

You are trying to start Maya Composite but you get this error:

The graphic card you are using might not be powerful enough to work with this high-end application; Maya Composite needs a reputable graphics card. 

It is important to verify your graphic card is listed in the Autodesk official qualification charts for.  You can find them on the Autodesk website here:

http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/pc/item?id=13583898&siteID=123112