Notebook PC makers and users desire the realism and performance of a discrete graphics processing unit (GPU), but they still demand maximum battery life. Now Sony, Fujitsu Siemens, and BenQ have announced the availability of notebooks that let users dynamically switch between a discrete NVIDIA GeForce GPU and Intel Centrino 2 integrated graphics without rebooting, giving users the choice of more visual computing performance or reducing power demands to extend battery life.
All GeForce 9M Series GPUs support the hybrid graphics feature, but the notebook must be designed to support the technology. The hybrid graphics feature is currently available in the following new notebook models:
- Sony VAIO Z series ultra-light laptops with GeForce 9300M GS GPUs
- Fujitsu Siemens Amilo XI 3650 entertainment laptops with GeForce 9600M GT GPUs
- BenQ Joybook S42 ultra-light laptops with GeForce 9600M GT GPUs
To boost battery life, the hybrid graphics equipped notebooks allow users to select between the NVIDIA GeForce GPU and the integrated graphics in the Intel chipset. Users can choose between the lightning-fast 3D performance delivered by the NVIDIA GeForce GPU for visually intensive applications or improved stamina using the integrated Intel graphics. For applications like word processing and email, which don't require performance graphics, battery life can last more than five hours on the Sony Z series. And, most importantly, the switch can be made without rebooting the machine.
Enabling the seamless dynamic switching between the different hardware architectures of the GeForce GPU and Intel Centrino 2 in laptops was a collaborative effort between NVIDIA, Intel and notebook makers. "Engineering hybrid graphics was a significant effort between all involved, but the end result was worth it," said Rene Haas, general manager of the notebook business at NVIDIA. "Now consumers can experience a new breed of laptops that eliminates the compromise between battery life and visual computing performance."
9 Comments on NVIDIA Pioneers New Hybrid Graphics for Select Notebooks
nV needs to design a SINGLE mobile GPU chipset that can dynamically downclock and cut power in 2D mode.
1./ A mobile discrete GPU needs to be able to implement far superior power management techniques, resorting to complete turnoff then using the integrated solution is IMO silly redundancy due to them not designing the discrete soution in the best possible way.
2./ If also smells of "add-on", as though they have an optional add-on board. Lower value laptops dont include the add-on, more expensive higher up the range laptops have the add-on (discrete board, on some internal connector, solution). But ultimately, it adds greater cost and size to the final item compared to a one-GPU system.
However it is a design WIN in the following way:
3./ Point 2 adds a lot of production line assemble simplicity, and optionality (insert GM9300 or GM9600 or other card), and warranty RMA replacement methods.
CONCLUSION
This approach is OK, but IT IS NOT DESIGNED for a clever solution to power management. It is designed as a "add-on" board, where nVidia can produce them to different specification/model numbers, RAM etc. It also, theoretically, allows for aftermarket upgrade. And I like that approach.
Now this is all GREAT... But repeat... dressing this as a "all new solution to power management" is pure marketing spin.
thought before that this was possible and it is one of the best things.
google for "mxm"
my NB has a Northbridge with integrated GPU but doesn't use it, it run's off an mxm board with Nvidia 7600 Go. The Chipset was choosen because of it's powersaving capabilitys for Mobile CPU.
that's why i think hybrid GPU is nice ;) , and they have done it very well (no reboot)
AMD did this with Puma a long while ago in june?