Intel’s Arc GPUs have obtained a further 10-15% efficiency increase throughout the latest Linux 6.6 graphics drivers.
You Can Now Extract Extra Efficiency From Intel’s Arc GPUs By means of Up to date “RPS Tuning” In Linux Drivers
The brand new set of i915 Linux kernel graphics driver patches launched again in April revealed Intel’s change in RPS thresholds. Earlier than this, RPS values have been set at a default development however now the up to date drivers convey within the choice for shoppers to dynamically change the values. This new change was initially revealed by Google’s engineer Syed Faaiz Hussain & it was disclosed the RPS tuning introduced in noticeable efficiency enhancements.
Under are the respective titles and efficiency boosts introduced after the patch on Intel Arc GPUs in varied video games, compiled by Phoronix:
Intel Arc GPU Linux 6.6 Graphics Driver Efficiency (Supply: Phoronix):
| Recreation | API | FPS (85/95) | FPS (50/70) | Perf Distinction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CS:GO | OpenGL | 96.12 | 112.42 | +14.50% |
| CS:GO | Vulkan | 93.64 | 107.54 | +12.93% |
| Civilization VI | OpenGL | 27.88 | 31.32 | +10.98% |
| Unusual Brigade | DX12 | 37 | 37 | 0% |
The most important enchancment is available in OpenGL efficiency the place CS:GO witnesses a 14.5% graphics efficiency enchancment whereas the identical recreation in Vulkan delivers a 12.93% enchancment however runs a bit slower. Civilization VI additionally sees a good 11% efficiency uptick on the OpenGL API and Unusual Brigade below the DX12 reveals no marked enchancment.
Whereas the outcomes are certainly fascinating, Phoronix highlights an essential issue right here. The RPS tuning is simply restricted to non-GuC platforms, which means all built-in and discrete graphics cannot entry the tuning characteristic. GuC or Graphics Microcode, is a microcode current that enhances the capabilities of duties reminiscent of video decoding and encoding, energy administration, and workload scheduling. As stated by the supply, solely “pre-DG2/ADL platforms” can make the most of the advantages of RPS tuning.
Aside from RPS tuning adjustments, the brand new patch in Linux 6.6 brings “a repair to keep away from infinite GPU waits and varied Meteor Lake updates.” The adjustments made within the driver for the upcoming Meteor Lake additionally point out that Group Blue is engaged on full help at launch, by beginning work a lot earlier. With that stated, Intel’s Arc driver division is working actually arduous to extract each little bit of juice out of the Alchemist structure.
Information Supply: Phoronix
Originally posted 2023-08-06 11:00:11.