AMD will bring “FreeSync Panel Replay” technology, allowing Ryzen laptops to further reduce power consumption
Numerous mobile devices presently boast the functionality of “adaptive refresh rates,” which entail the reduction of power consumption through the decrease of refresh rates when screen content remains unaltered, thus conserving energy and allowing for extended battery life. Recently, AMD added new code to its Linux kernel’s graphics card driver program, revealing the introduction of the “FreeSync Panel Replay” technology, bearing a similar purpose. The technology is intended for AMD Ryzen laptops equipped with a DCN v3.1.4 display module or newer versions.
AMD elucidates the “FreeSync Panel Replay” technology in its patch description as follows:
- DCN retrieves a frame of data from DF/UMC/DRAM, allowing it to forestall a part of this hardware path’s power down.
- The GPU transmits pixel data to the monitor through the DisplayPort interface’s main link, allowing it to hinder the power down of the transmitter (TX) and receiver (RX).
According to AMD, “FreeSync Panel Replay” and “adaptive refresh rates” cannot be activated simultaneously. The former boasts significant advantages over the latter, as it maintains synchronization between the source and receiver, thereby reducing latency upon exiting the mode. It is capable of handling a wider range of usage scenarios and allows for more effortless control of the receiver’s refresh rate. The new technology halts the GPU from repeatedly transmitting identical frames to the receiver when there are no updates or changes displayed, minimizing redundancy and ultimately lowering power consumption.
The extent of power savings “FreeSync Panel Replay” provides over “adaptive refresh rates” remains unclear for now. Prior to this, AMD made no mention of this function. The entire patch consists of approximately a thousand lines of new code, and according to the submission timeline, it is expected to be integrated into the mainline later this year.
