Display system with improved graphics abilities while switching graphics processing units
AssigneeApple Inc.
InventorsKapil V. Sakariya, Victor H. Yin, Michael F. Culbert
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Abstract
Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for improving graphics abilities while switching between graphics processing units (GPUs). Some embodiments may include a display system, including a plurality of graphics processing units (GPUs) and a memory buffer coupled to the GPUs via a timing controller, where the memory buffer stores data associated with a first video frame from a first GPU within the plurality of GPUs and where the timing controller is switching between the first GPU and a second GPU within the plurality.
Claims20
A display system, comprising:
- a plurality of graphics processing units (GPUs);
- and
- a memory buffer coupled to the GPUs via a timing controller, wherein the memory buffer stores data associated with a first video frame from a first GPU within the plurality of GPUs and wherein the timing controller is switching between the first GPU and a second GPU within the plurality.
A method of switching between GPUs during operation of a display system, the method comprising the acts of:
- indicating an upcoming GPU switch from a first GPU within a plurality of GPUs to a second GPU within a plurality of GPUs;
- storing a first video frame from the first GPU in a memory buffer;
- switching between the first GPU and the second GPU;
- and
- refreshing a display from the memory buffer during the act of switching from the first GPU to the second GPU.
A tangible computer readable medium comprising computer readable instructions, said instructions comprising a plurality of instructions capable of being implemented while switching between at least two GPUs in a plurality of GPUs, said instructions comprising:
- displaying data from a current GPU in the plurality of GPUs;
- indicating an upcoming GPU switch;
- storing a future data frame;
- switching between the current GPU and a new GPU in the plurality of GPUs;
- and
- refreshing a display from a memory buffer while switching between the current GPU and the new GPU.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.