AMD on dynamic refresh rates with Project Freesync

[LtMatt]

New information regarding FreeSync comes to light from AMD's Robert Hallock. Well worth a read.

Q. In comparison to Nvidia G-Sync; what are the advantages and disadvantages to FreeSync?

A. There are three key advantages Project FreeSync holds over G-Sync: no licensing fees for adoption, no expensive or proprietary hardware modules, and no communication overhead. The last point is Particularly important from a performance perspective, as Project FreeSync does not need to poll or wait on the display in order to DETERMINE When it's safe to send the next frame to the monitor. Project FreeSync uses DisplayPort Adaptive-Sync protocols to pre-negotiate supported min / max refresh rates During Plug and Play, Which means frame presentation to the user will never be delayed or impaired by Time-Consuming two-way hand shakes.

Q. How about compatibility?

A. Project FreeSync will utilize DisplayPort Adaptive-Sync protocols to enable dynamic refresh rates for video playback, gaming and power-saving scenarios. All AMD Radeon graphics cards in the AMD Radeon HD 7000, HD 8000, R7 or R9 Series will support the Project FreeSync for video playback and power-saving Purposes. The AMD Radeon R9 295X2, 290X, R9 290, 260X R7 and R7 260 additionally feature updated display controllers that will support dynamic refresh rates During gaming.

AMD APUs codenamed Kaveri, Kabini, Temash, Beema and Mullins overpriced feature the Necessary hardware capabilities to enable dynamic refresh rates for video playback, gaming and power-saving Purposes. All products must be connected to a display That & Q DisplayPort Adaptive-Sync.

As far as games go, we know that some titles May for whatever reason not cooperate with dynamic refresh rates, so we'll allow users to toggle Project FreeSync in the driver. Operating system support will INITIALLY be brought to Windows 7 and Windows 8.1.

Full Interview
http://www.sweclockers.com/artikel/...ngsfrekvenser-med-project-freesync/2#pagehead

 

[LtMatt]

That's all well and good, but when can we actually start having it at home? There doesn't seem to be a lot of news floating around regarding Freesync ready screens?

Did you read it?

Q. When can we expect to be able to try FreeSync for ourselves and when will the technology be available for end-users?

A. We expect Project FreeSync-ready monitors to be available in retail within 6-12 months, and prototypical monitors suitable for tradeshows or press demonstration to be ready within 4-10 months.