AMD Confidential

User Manual

November 21st, 2008

7.4 Emerald Graphics Device

The Emerald graphics device provides an industry-standard PCI/AGP VGA-compatible video device. The device provides a fully functional set of PCI configuration registers. The AGP interface is currently somewhat minimal, and is not capable of generating AGP cycles nor AGP-specific modes at this time.

The Emerald graphics device is comprised of a standard VGA and the Emerald Graphics sub device. The graphics display engine automatically switches between the Emerald Graphics sub device and the VGA as necessary to display the selected video modes, with only one being able to display at a time. The VGA sub device provides an industry- standard VGA interface used by BIOS and DOS. The Emerald Graphics device provides an AGP and PCI graphics device interface controllable either by VESA BIOS extensions or a video driver. In addition to the VGA standard modes, Emerald Graphics supports a wide range of graphics modes from 320x200 at 16-bit color up to 2048x1536 at 32-bit color with either the VESA BIOS extensions or a video driver.

Interfaces

The Emerald graphics device has both a PCI slot and an AGP bus connection, only one of which can be used at any time to connect to PCI slots or AGP bus ports in other devices.

Initialization and Reset State

Upon initial creation, this device initializes the internal registers to VGA standard reset state, and creates a display window that acts as the VGA display. The Configuration options are initialized to enable both the VGA and Emerald Graphics. The frame-buffer size is initialized to 16 Mbytes and the Bios File memory area is initialized to all ones.

A reset will re-load the default PCI configuration registers and place default values in the Chip and FIFO configuration for the Emerald Graphics device.

Contents of a BSD

The data saved in the BSD depends on the mode the graphics controller was in when the BSD was saved. If the graphics controller was in VGA mode, the BSD file contains the contents of all VGA registers, a copy of the 256-Kbyte VGA frame buffer, and all configuration information. If the graphics controller was in a high-resolution mode (non- VGA in Windows) the frame buffer, Emerald Graphics registers, and PCI configuration registers are saved in the BSD. When the BSD file is reloaded, all registers and the frame buffer are restored, and a display image is captured and displayed in the display window.

Configuration Options

VGA Sub Device Configuration

Chapter 7: Device Configuration

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AMD 4.4.5 user manual Emerald Graphics Device, VGA Sub Device Configuration
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4.4.5 specifications

AMD 4.4.5 is a robust version of the AMD software ecosystem that focuses on enhanced performance, stability, and efficiency for users relying on AMD processors and graphics cards. This iteration brings various features and technologies designed to optimize gaming, professional applications, and general computing tasks.

One of the standout enhancements in AMD 4.4.5 is the integration of Smart Access Memory technology, which allows the CPU to access the full graphics memory directly. This feature enhances data flow between the CPU and GPU, leading to improved frame rates and overall performance, especially in memory-intensive games. Users can experience a marked increase in gaming performance without the need for additional hardware upgrades.

Another significant feature introduced is the updated Radeon Software Adrenalin Edition. This software update encompasses optimizations for various games, ensuring that gamers can enjoy a seamless experience with the latest titles. The Adrenalin interface also provides features such as Radeon Chill, which helps reduce power consumption during less demanding scenes, and Radeon Anti-Lag, designed to minimize input lag and enhance responsiveness in competitive gaming.

Additionally, AMD 4.4.5 brings the latest drivers that include important performance enhancements and bug fixes that allow for greater system stability. Regular updates ensure that users have the best experience with their AMD hardware, and it significantly bolsters compatibility with the latest gaming titles and software applications.

AMD's Enhanced Sync technology offers users the ability to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering while delivering smooth gameplay. It dynamically synchronizes the refresh rate of the display with the frame rates produced by the GPU, improving the visual experience significantly.

With the introduction of FidelityFX Super Resolution, AMD continues to bolster its suite of technologies that enhance graphics quality and performance. This feature allows lower-resolution images to be upscaled effectively, making it easier for users to enjoy high-end visuals without taxing their hardware excessively.

In summary, AMD 4.4.5 represents a comprehensive update for users by integrating cutting-edge technologies that cater to a wide range of applications from gaming to content creation. With enhancements across the board, AMD reaffirms its commitment to providing high-performance solutions that keep pace with the ever-evolving technology landscape. Whether for gaming aficionados or professional creators, the capabilities offered in this version make it a significant milestone in the AMD software ecosystem.
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