A video memory power management method and device, a storage medium and a program product

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a kind of video memory power management method and device, storage medium and program product, the method includes detecting the update state of display picture;When display picture is not updated, it is determined whether video memory meets energy-saving condition based on the blanking stage time length when a frame of picture is displayed;The blanking stage time length includes the non-active time period from the completion of a frame scanning of display to the beginning of next frame scanning;In the case where video memory meets energy-saving condition, periodic power-on and power-off operation is carried out to video memory, and the low-power consumption work of video memory is realized.The power consumption of video memory can be effectively reduced by the embodiment of the present disclosure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of computer technology, and in particular to a method and apparatus for managing video memory power, a storage medium, and a program product. Background Technology

[0002] In computer graphics processing technology, video memory (VRAM) is a crucial component for storing image data, and its performance directly impacts the efficiency of graphics processing and display quality. However, with the widespread adoption of display devices and the diversification of application scenarios, the power consumption of VRAM has gradually become a focus of attention. Especially in mobile devices and scenarios where operation is inactive for extended periods, VRAM power management is of paramount importance.

[0003] Video memory (VRAM) is primarily used to store image data for graphics processing and rendering by the graphics card. During monitor refresh, VRAM needs to continuously provide data support to ensure the normal updating of the displayed image. Traditional VRAM management methods keep the VRAM powered on while the graphics card is working to ensure data real-time performance and display stability, but this results in higher power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, this disclosure proposes a video memory power management technology solution.

[0005] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a method for managing video memory power is provided, comprising:

[0006] Detect the update status of the displayed screen;

[0007] When the display screen is not updated, the video memory is determined to meet the power saving conditions based on the blanking phase duration when displaying a frame; the blanking phase duration includes the inactive time period from when the display completes a frame scan to when the next frame scan begins.

[0008] When the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions, the video memory is periodically powered on and off to achieve low-power operation.

[0009] In one possible implementation, determining whether the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions based on the blanking phase duration when displaying a frame includes:

[0010] Compare the blanking phase duration with the total power state switching time of the video memory; the total power state switching time includes: the time required for the video memory to power down and the time required for the video memory to power on.

[0011] If the duration of the blanking phase is greater than the total power state switching time of the video memory, it is determined that the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the periodic power-on / off operation of the video memory includes:

[0013] Configure the power-on / off cycles of the display memory within one frame of display time based on the duration of the scanning phase and the duration of the blanking phase within one frame of display time.

[0014] The video memory is powered down during the blanking phase of the display and powered on before the next frame scan begins, thus waking up the video memory.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the step of powering down the video memory during the blanking phase of the display and powering up the video memory before the start of the next frame scan to wake up the video memory includes:

[0016] Based on the display synchronization signal, the refresh cycle of the display and the power-on / off operation of the video memory are synchronized. The video memory is powered off during the blanking phase of the display refresh cycle and powered on before the next frame scan begins in the display refresh cycle.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the periodic power-on / off operation of the video memory includes:

[0018] When the display enters the blanking phase, a power-down operation is performed on the video memory, reducing the voltage of the video memory chips to the minimum threshold required to maintain data integrity, and turning off unnecessary clock signals.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0020] Obtain the percentage of the scanning phase and the percentage of the blanking phase of the display by using the extended device descriptor EDID of the display.

[0021] The duration of the blanking phase is determined based on the display refresh rate and the percentage of the blanking phase.

[0022] In one possible implementation, after achieving low-power operation of the video memory, the method further includes:

[0023] If a display update is detected, the periodic power-on and power-off operations on the video memory will be stopped to exit the power-saving mode.

[0024] In one possible implementation, after achieving low-power operation of the video memory, the method further includes:

[0025] Based on historical screen update patterns or user operation behavior models, predict the probability of screen updates at multiple future time points;

[0026] If the probability of the display screen updating at the target time point is greater than a set probability threshold, it is determined that the screen at the target time point is about to be updated, and the power-saving mode is exited before the target time point to avoid display delay.

[0027] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a video memory power management device is provided, comprising:

[0028] The status detection unit is used to detect the update status of the displayed screen;

[0029] The condition judgment unit is used to determine whether the video memory meets the power saving conditions based on the blanking phase duration when a frame is displayed, when the display screen is not updated; the blanking phase duration includes the inactive time period from when the display completes a frame scan to when the next frame scan begins.

[0030] The operation unit is used to periodically power on and off the video memory when the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions, so as to realize the low-power operation of the video memory.

[0031] In one possible implementation, the condition judgment unit is used for:

[0032] Compare the blanking phase duration with the total power state switching time of the video memory; the total power state switching time includes: the time required for the video memory to power down and the time required for the video memory to power on.

[0033] If the duration of the blanking phase is greater than the total power state switching time of the video memory, it is determined that the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the operating unit is used for:

[0035] Configure the power-on / off cycles of the display memory within one frame of display time based on the duration of the scanning phase and the duration of the blanking phase within one frame of display time.

[0036] The video memory is powered down during the blanking phase of the display and powered on before the next frame scan begins, thus waking up the video memory.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the operating unit is used for:

[0038] Based on the display synchronization signal, the refresh cycle of the display and the power-on / off operation of the video memory are synchronized. The video memory is powered off during the blanking phase of the display refresh cycle and powered on before the next frame scan begins in the display refresh cycle.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the operating unit is used for:

[0040] When the display enters the blanking phase, a power-down operation is performed on the video memory, reducing the voltage of the video memory chips to the minimum threshold required to maintain data integrity, and turning off unnecessary clock signals.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the device further includes:

[0042] The acquisition unit is used to acquire the scanning phase percentage and blanking phase percentage of the display through the extended device descriptor EDID of the display.

[0043] The blanking phase duration determination unit is used to determine the blanking phase duration based on the display refresh rate and the blanking phase proportion.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the device further includes:

[0045] The exit unit is used to stop the periodic power-on and power-off operations on the video memory when a display screen update is detected, so as to exit the power-saving mode.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the device further includes:

[0047] The probability judgment unit is used to predict the probability of display screen updates at multiple future time points based on historical screen update patterns or user operation behavior models.

[0048] The exit unit is used to determine that the screen at the target time node is about to be updated when the probability of the screen being updated at the target time node is greater than a set probability threshold, and to exit the energy-saving mode before the target time node to avoid display delay.

[0049] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an electronic device is provided, including a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory, wherein the processor executes the computer program to implement the steps of the above-described method.

[0050] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which a computer program is stored, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the above-described method.

[0051] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program or a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium carrying the computer program, wherein the computer program, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the above-described method.

[0052] In this embodiment, by detecting the update status of the display screen, the duration of the blanking phase is used to determine whether the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions when the screen is not updating. If the conditions are met, the video memory is periodically powered on and off. This effectively reduces the power consumption of the video memory, especially in mobile devices or scenarios where it has not been used for a long time, significantly saving energy. Simultaneously, by matching the refresh rate with the monitor, normal display operation is ensured, avoiding display abnormalities caused by video memory power-off. Furthermore, this disclosure performs video memory power management based on the update status of the display screen, which can be implemented in software without relying on specific devices and hardware, and is applicable to various display scenarios and device types, such as mobile devices, desktop computers, and servers.

[0053] Other features and aspects of this disclosure will become clear from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0054] The accompanying drawings, which are included in and form part of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments, features, and aspects of this disclosure together with the specification and serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0055] Figure 1 A flowchart illustrating a memory power management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0056] Figure 2 A block diagram of a memory power management device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0057] Figure 3 A block diagram of an apparatus for video memory power management according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0058] Various exemplary embodiments, features, and aspects of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote elements that have the same or similar functions. Although various aspects of the embodiments are shown in the drawings, they are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specifically indicated otherwise.

[0059] As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” or variations thereof are open-ended and include one or more of the stated features, integrals, elements, steps, components, or functions, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, elements, steps, components, functions, or groups thereof.

[0060] When an element is referred to as “connected,” “coupled,” “responding,” or a variation thereof relative to another element, it may be directly connected, coupled, or responding to another element, or there may be an intermediate element present.

[0061] Although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements / operations, these elements / operations should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element / operation from another. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the inventive concept, a first element / operation in some embodiments may be referred to as a second element / operation in other embodiments.

[0062] The term “exemplary” as used herein means “serving as an example, embodiment, or illustration.” Any embodiment illustrated herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as superior to or better than other embodiments.

[0063] Furthermore, to better illustrate this disclosure, numerous specific details are set forth in the following detailed description. Those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure can be practiced without certain specific details. In some instances, methods, means, components, and circuits well known to those skilled in the art have not been described in detail in order to highlight the main points of this disclosure.

[0064] The memory power management technology disclosed herein is widely used in various devices and scenarios, aiming to reduce memory power consumption and improve energy efficiency. In mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, it can put the memory into a power-saving mode when the device is in standby mode or when the user has not operated it for a long time, thus extending battery life. Similarly, for laptops, it can effectively reduce memory power consumption when the user is performing non-graphics-intensive tasks.

[0065] In desktop computers and multi-monitor configurations, video memory can automatically reduce power consumption when the user is not performing screen updates, such as during meetings or lunch breaks, thereby reducing energy waste. For servers and data centers, video memory plays a crucial role in graphics processing servers and virtual desktop infrastructure; by reducing video memory power consumption when virtual desktops are idle, it helps lower overall operating costs.

[0066] In summary, the memory power management technology disclosed herein achieves significant energy-saving effects by dynamically adjusting the working mode of the memory without affecting display performance, and is suitable for various scenarios that require reduced power consumption.

[0067] In one possible implementation, the video memory power management method can be executed by the graphics card driver or by an electronic device such as a terminal device or server that contains the graphics card driver. The terminal device can be a user equipment (UE), mobile device, user terminal, terminal, cellular phone, cordless phone, personal digital assistant (PDA), handheld device, computing device, in-vehicle device, wearable device, etc. The method can be implemented by the processor calling computer-readable instructions stored in the memory.

[0068] Figure 1 A flowchart illustrating a video memory power management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1 As shown, the method includes:

[0069] In step S11, the update status of the displayed screen is detected;

[0070] Detecting the update status of the display screen means determining whether the display screen has changed. This can be done through mechanisms provided by the graphics card driver or the operating system, which monitor whether there are new drawing commands or data updates on the display screen. For example, when a user opens a new window or plays a video, the graphics card driver will detect the update of the screen.

[0071] In step S12, when the display screen is not updated, it is determined whether the video memory meets the power saving conditions based on the blanking phase duration when displaying a frame; the blanking phase duration includes the inactive time period from when the display completes a frame scan to when the next frame scan begins.

[0072] The process of displaying a single frame on a monitor mainly consists of two phases: the scanning phase and the blanking phase. For example, in a 60Hz refresh rate monitor, each frame takes 16.67 milliseconds, of which the blanking phase may account for 30% of the time, or approximately 5 milliseconds.

[0073] The scanning phase is the process by which the monitor reads image data from the video memory and illuminates the data pixel by pixel, line by line, to form a complete image. During this phase, the video memory must remain powered on to ensure stable data output. The scanning phase begins at the top left corner of the monitor and proceeds line by line towards the bottom right corner until a complete frame is displayed.

[0074] The blanking phase (also known as the vblank phase) is a short rest period after the scanning phase is completed, during which the monitor prepares for the next frame. During this time, the monitor does not scan pixels, and the video memory can be powered down to save energy.

[0075] The scanning phase and the blanking phase together constitute the complete display process of a frame. By powering down the video memory during the blanking phase, low-power management of the video memory can be achieved without affecting the display effect.

[0076] Energy-saving conditions are the criteria used to determine whether video memory can enter energy-saving mode. These conditions can include ensuring the blanking phase lasts long enough for the video memory to power on and off.

[0077] Since powering on and off the video memory also requires a certain amount of time, the duration of the blanking phase can be used to determine whether the video memory can save energy. In other words, the duration of the blanking phase can be used to determine whether the video memory has enough time to perform power-on and power-off operations.

[0078] For example, in a 60Hz refresh rate monitor, the blanking phase lasts for 5 milliseconds. Assuming that the power-on and power-off operation of the video memory takes 1 millisecond, the energy-saving conditions are met, and the video memory can enter the energy-saving mode.

[0079] Furthermore, since the data in the video memory is static when the display is not updated and does not require real-time updates, the video memory can be safely powered off without affecting the display quality. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether the video memory meets the power-saving conditions when the display is not updated, and then perform power-saving operations accordingly.

[0080] In step S13, when the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions, the video memory is periodically powered on and off to achieve low-power operation of the video memory.

[0081] When the video memory meets the power-saving conditions, it can enter power-saving mode. In this mode, the video memory can be powered on and off at regular intervals. The video memory remains powered on during the monitor's scan time and powered off during the blanking phase to achieve low power consumption. For example, in a 60Hz refresh rate monitor, the video memory performs a power-on / off operation every 16.67 milliseconds, powering on during the scan time and powering off during the blanking phase. The power-on and power-off durations are determined based on the ratio of the monitor's scan node duration to the blanking phase duration.

[0082] In this embodiment, by detecting the update status of the display screen, the duration of the blanking phase is used to determine whether the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions when the screen is not updating. If the conditions are met, the video memory is periodically powered on and off. This effectively reduces the power consumption of the video memory, especially in mobile devices or scenarios where it has not been used for a long time, significantly saving energy. Simultaneously, by matching the refresh rate with the monitor, normal display operation is ensured, avoiding display abnormalities caused by video memory power-off. Furthermore, this disclosure performs video memory power management based on the update status of the display screen, which can be implemented in software without relying on specific devices and hardware, and is applicable to various display scenarios and device types, such as mobile devices, desktop computers, and servers.

[0083] In one possible implementation, determining whether the video memory meets the energy-saving condition based on the blanking phase duration when displaying a frame includes: comparing the blanking phase duration with the total power state switching time of the video memory; the total power state switching time includes: the time required for the video memory to power down and the time required for the video memory to power on; if the blanking phase duration is greater than the total power state switching time of the video memory, it is determined that the video memory meets the energy-saving condition.

[0084] The blanking phase is the inactive period from when the monitor completes one frame scan until the next frame scan begins. During this time, the monitor does not scan pixels, so the video memory can use this time for power-saving operations.

[0085] When the video memory performs power-saving operations, it needs to power on and off. Since these operations take a certain amount of time, it's possible to determine whether the blanking phase duration is sufficient for the video memory to perform these operations. In other words, it's necessary to determine whether the blanking phase duration is greater than the total power state switching time of the video memory.

[0086] The total power state switching time of video memory includes the time required for the video memory to power off and the time required for the video memory to power on. The video memory power-off time is the time required for the video memory to switch from the power-on state to the power-off state, and the video memory power-on time is the time required for the video memory to switch from the power-off state to the power-on state.

[0087] To determine whether the video memory meets the power-saving conditions, the duration of the blanking phase needs to be compared with the total power state transition time of the video memory. Specifically: if the blanking phase duration is longer than the total power state transition time of the video memory, the video memory has enough time to complete the power-down and power-up operations during the blanking phase, thus allowing it to enter power-saving mode. If the blanking phase duration is shorter than the total power state transition time of the video memory, the video memory cannot complete the power-up and power-down operations during the blanking phase. Entering power-saving mode in this case may cause display abnormalities, therefore the video memory cannot enter power-saving mode.

[0088] If the blanking phase duration exceeds the total power state switching time of the video memory, it can be determined that the video memory meets the power-saving conditions and can enter power-saving mode. That is, the video memory can be powered down during the blanking phase and powered up in time before the start of the next frame scan to ensure normal display operation.

[0089] In this embodiment of the disclosure, by comparing the blanking phase duration with the total power state switching time of the video memory, it is dynamically determined whether the video memory can enter the power saving mode, ensuring that the power saving operation of the video memory will not affect the normal operation of the display, while maximizing the use of the blanking phase for power saving, avoiding display abnormalities caused by the power-down of the video memory, and ensuring the stability and integrity of the image.

[0090] This disclosed embodiment can dynamically adjust energy-saving strategies based on the blanking phase duration and the power state switching time of the video memory, making it suitable for displays with different refresh rates and resolutions. It is compatible with existing video memory management and display control technologies, achieving energy-saving effects without large-scale hardware modifications.

[0091] In one possible implementation, the periodic power-on and power-off operation of the video memory includes: configuring the power-on and power-off cycle of the video memory within a frame display duration based on the scanning phase duration and blanking phase duration of the display within a frame display duration; performing a power-off operation on the video memory when the display enters the blanking phase, and performing a power-on operation on the video memory before the start of the next frame scan, so as to complete the wake-up of the video memory.

[0092] Based on the duration of the scanning and blanking phases within a single frame of display time, the power-on and power-off cycles of the video memory within that frame can be configured. Specifically, during the scanning phase, the video memory remains powered on to support the display's scanning operation; during the blanking phase, the video memory can be powered off to save energy.

[0093] When the monitor enters the blanking phase, the video memory is powered down. Before the next frame scan begins, the video memory is powered on in a timely manner to ensure that it can resume normal operation at the start of the scan phase, thus avoiding display abnormalities.

[0094] When configuring the power-on / off cycles of video memory within a single frame of display time, the GPU's timing parameter register can be used to configure these cycles. The calculated power-on / off cycles are written into the GPU's timing parameter register by the graphics card driver. When the GPU's display control unit performs power-on / off operations, it uses the power-on / off cycles in this register to control the video memory.

[0095] In this embodiment, the power-on and power-off cycles of the video memory are configured according to the duration of the scanning and blanking phases of the display, enabling periodic power-on and power-off operations of the video memory. Therefore, powering off during the blanking phase effectively reduces the power consumption of the video memory, especially in scenarios where the image is not being updated, resulting in more significant energy savings. Powering off during the blanking phase and powering on promptly before the start of the next frame ensures the normal operation of the video memory during the scanning phase, avoiding display abnormalities caused by video memory power-off.

[0096] The embodiments disclosed herein can dynamically adjust the power-on and power-off cycles of the video memory according to the refresh rate and resolution of the display. They are applicable to different types of displays, compatible with existing video memory management and display control technologies, and can achieve energy-saving effects without large-scale hardware modifications.

[0097] In one possible implementation, the step of powering down the video memory during the blanking phase of the display and powering up the video memory before the start of the next frame scan to wake up the video memory includes: synchronizing the refresh cycle of the display and the power-on / off operation of the video memory based on the display synchronization signal, so as to power down the video memory during the blanking phase of the display refresh cycle and power up the video memory before the start of the next frame scan in the display refresh cycle.

[0098] Display synchronization signals are used to synchronize the monitor's refresh rate. They mark the start and end times of each frame and notify the graphics card that the current frame scan is complete and the next frame scan is about to begin. Display synchronization signals can be, for example, the vertical sync signal (vsync). The vsync signal ensures that the frames output by the graphics card are synchronized with the monitor's refresh rate, preventing screen tearing.

[0099] The display synchronization signal is generated by the monitor and is used to mark the end of one frame scan and the beginning of the next frame scan. When the display synchronization signal is triggered, the monitor completes the scan of the current frame and enters the blanking phase. After the blanking phase ends, the monitor begins scanning the next frame, at which point the display synchronization signal terminates.

[0100] Therefore, the rising edge (end of frame) and falling edge (start of frame) of the display synchronization signal can be captured in real time. Immediately after the rising edge (end of frame) of the display synchronization signal, the power-down operation of the video memory is initiated, the power supply to the video memory chip is turned off (or reduced to the minimum voltage to maintain data), and unnecessary clock signals are disabled.

[0101] The power-on operation is completed before the falling edge of the display synchronization signal (frame start) of the next frame. The power supply and clock signal of the video memory are restored to ensure that the video memory can be read normally before the scan begins. Since the blanking phase duration is known, the end time of the blanking phase is also known. Since the power-on operation time is also known, the timing of the power-on operation is also known.

[0102] In this embodiment, the refresh cycle of the display and the power-on / off operation of the video memory are synchronized by a display synchronization signal, ensuring that the power-saving operation of the video memory is precisely matched with the refresh cycle of the display. This avoids display abnormalities caused by video memory state switching and maximizes energy efficiency.

[0103] In one possible implementation, the periodic power-on / off operation of the video memory includes: performing a power-off operation on the video memory during the blanking phase of the display, reducing the voltage of the video memory chip to a minimum threshold to maintain data integrity, and turning off unnecessary clock signals.

[0104] As mentioned earlier, the blanking phase is an inactive period from when the display completes one frame scan until the next frame scan begins. During this time, the display does not scan pixels, and the video memory can use this period for energy-saving operations.

[0105] Video memory chips are the basic units of video memory, responsible for storing image data. During the blanking phase, the voltage of the video memory chips can be reduced to the minimum threshold required to maintain data integrity. That is, the voltage of the video memory chips will not drop to a level that affects data integrity, but will be reduced to achieve energy saving.

[0106] Clock signals are essential for video memory to function. During the blanking phase, unnecessary clock signals in the video memory can be turned off to further reduce power consumption. Turning off unnecessary clock signals will not affect the timely wake-up of the video memory before the start of the next frame scan.

[0107] Unnecessary clock signals can be temporarily disabled during the blanking phase without causing data loss in video memory or display abnormalities. These signals are related to real-time data read and write operations, but have no actual functional requirements during the blanking phase, so they can be disabled to save energy.

[0108] Non-essential clock signals may include: the input / output (I / O) clock of the video memory chips; the pixel clock of the display controller; and non-critical control clocks such as the delay-locked loop (DLL) clock within the video memory. Specifically, the I / O clock of the video memory chips is used to drive data transmission between the video memory and the GPU during the scanning phase. Since there is no data read / write during the blanking phase, disabling this clock can save dynamic power consumption. The pixel clock of the display controller is used to output data to the display at the pixel frequency during the scanning phase. Since there is no pixel output during the blanking phase, this clock can be paused to reduce the power consumption of the display controller. The DLL clock within the video memory synchronizes high-speed data transmission during the scanning phase. Since there is no data transmission during the blanking phase, the DLL can also be disabled to reduce the power consumption of analog circuitry.

[0109] The wake-up clock used to detect the end of the blanking phase and trigger the power-on operation can be retained so that the end of the blanking phase can be detected and the power-on operation can be triggered in a timely manner.

[0110] In this embodiment, by performing a power-down operation on the video memory during the blanking phase, the voltage of the video memory chip is reduced to the minimum threshold required to maintain data integrity, and unnecessary clock signals are turned off, thus achieving low-power operation of the video memory. This strategy is suitable for scenarios where the video memory is not used for a long time, such as the standby state of a mobile device or the idle state of a desktop computer.

[0111] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: obtaining the scanning phase percentage and blanking phase percentage of the display through the extended device descriptor EDID of the display; and determining the blanking phase duration based on the display refresh rate and the blanking phase percentage.

[0112] The Extended Display Identification Data (EDID) of a monitor is a set of data stored in the monitor that provides the graphics card with detailed parameters of the monitor, including resolution, refresh rate, scan phase percentage, and blanking phase percentage. By obtaining the EDID information, one can understand the characteristics of the monitor and thus optimize display settings.

[0113] The scanning phase percentage refers to the proportion of time a display spends scanning pixels within a single frame. The blanking phase percentage refers to the proportion of inactive time periods within a single frame during which the display does not perform pixel scanning.

[0114] By obtaining the EDID information of the display, the percentage of the scanning phase and the percentage of the blanking phase can be obtained. Then, based on the display refresh rate, the duration of one frame is determined, and the duration of one frame is multiplied by the percentage of the blanking phase to obtain the duration of the blanking phase.

[0115] In this embodiment, the scanning phase percentage and blanking phase percentage of the display are obtained through EDID, and the blanking phase duration is calculated based on the display refresh rate, thereby providing accurate timing parameters for the power-saving operation of the video memory. Therefore, the power-saving strategy of the video memory can be dynamically adjusted according to the refresh rate and resolution of the display, applicable to different types of displays, compatible with existing video memory management and display control technologies, and achieving power-saving effects without large-scale hardware modifications.

[0116] In one possible implementation, after achieving low-power operation of the video memory, the method further includes: stopping the periodic power-on and power-off operations on the video memory when a display screen update is detected, in order to exit the power-saving mode.

[0117] After the video memory achieves low-power operation, the graphics card driver needs to detect updates to the displayed image. When an update is detected, the video memory needs to promptly exit power-saving mode to ensure the smoothness and integrity of the displayed image. After exiting power-saving mode, the video memory will no longer undergo periodic power-on and power-off operations; that is, it will not power down the video memory during the monitor's blanking phase, nor will it lower the voltage of the video memory chips to the minimum threshold required to maintain data integrity, and it will not disable unnecessary clock signals, thus ensuring the smoothness and integrity of the displayed image.

[0118] Graphics card drivers can determine whether the display needs updating by monitoring the drawing commands or data updates of graphics applications. When a screen update is detected, the graphics card driver sends a signal to trigger a wake-up operation of the video memory. After receiving the wake-up signal, the video memory returns to its power-on state, ensuring that it can respond to the graphics card's drawing commands in a timely manner.

[0119] In this embodiment of the disclosure, by exiting the power-saving mode when an update to the display screen is detected, it is ensured that the video memory can respond to the graphics card's drawing commands in a timely manner, thereby ensuring the smoothness and integrity of the display screen.

[0120] In one possible implementation, after achieving low-power operation of the video memory, the method further includes: predicting the probability of display screen updates at multiple future time points based on historical screen update patterns or user operation behavior models; if the probability of display screen updates at a target time point is greater than a set probability threshold, determining that the screen at the target time point is about to be updated, and exiting the power-saving mode before the target time point to avoid display delay.

[0121] After achieving low-power operation of the video memory, the graphics card driver can predict the probability of display screen updates based on historical screen update patterns or user operation behavior models.

[0122] The historical image updates on a monitor may exhibit certain patterns. Therefore, by analyzing the frequency and pattern of image updates over a past period, the probability (likelihood) of future image updates can be predicted. For example, if the image has updated 5 times per second in the past 10 seconds, then the probability of future image updates is relatively high.

[0123] Secondly, user behavior models can be built. By analyzing user habits (such as mouse movement and keyboard input), the model can predict user behaviors that may trigger screen updates, i.e., predict the probability (likelihood) of future screen updates. For example, if a user frequently moves the mouse or inputs keyboard commands, the probability of a screen update is relatively high.

[0124] Therefore, a probability threshold can be set to determine whether it is necessary to exit energy-saving mode in advance. This threshold can be adjusted according to specific application scenarios and user needs. For example, the probability threshold can be set to 70%, and when the predicted probability of the display screen updating exceeds 70%, the system considers the screen to be about to update.

[0125] During prediction, the probability of display screen updates at multiple future time points can be predicted. When the predicted probability of display screen updates at the target time point is greater than the set probability threshold, the power saving mode of the video memory can be exited before the target time point to ensure that the video memory can respond in time when the screen is updated and avoid display delay.

[0126] The graphics card driver can analyze historical screen update patterns and user actions in real time to calculate the probability of a screen update. The calculated probability is compared to a set threshold. If the probability exceeds the threshold, the driver triggers the exit from power-saving mode.

[0127] In this embodiment, by predicting the probability of the displayed image updating at multiple future time points, the system exits power-saving mode in advance when the image is about to update, ensuring that the video memory can respond to the graphics card's drawing commands in a timely manner, thereby avoiding display lag. By exiting power-saving mode in advance, the video memory can respond promptly when the image updates, avoiding display lag. For example, when the user moves the mouse quickly or plays a video, the video memory can quickly return to its power-on state, ensuring smooth image playback.

[0128] For example, suppose a user primarily browses documents and web pages in a browsing scenario. The graphics card driver analyzes the user's historical actions and discovers that when browsing documents, the user updates the screen on average every 5 seconds (e.g., scrolling or typing). Based on this pattern, the graphics card driver sets a probability threshold of 60%. When the predicted screen update probability exceeds 60%, the graphics card driver prematurely exits the video memory's power-saving mode, ensuring the video memory can respond promptly to user actions. The video memory can be restored to its powered-on state when needed, avoiding display lag, while maintaining a low-power state when the user is not actively using it, achieving a balance between energy saving and performance.

[0129] Furthermore, it's important to note that the power-on and power-off time for the video memory needs to be sufficiently short to match the limited time window of the monitor's blanking phase. If the video memory switching time exceeds the blanking phase duration, it may lead to display abnormalities (such as black screens or screen tearing) or prevent entry into power-saving mode. Therefore, hardware optimization is needed to compress the total switching time to within 1 millisecond to adapt to the blanking phase duration of high refresh rate monitors (such as 120Hz / 240Hz).

[0130] Hardware optimizations to achieve short-time switching can specifically include:

[0131] Power supply circuit design: Use low-resistance capacitors (such as ceramic capacitors) and high-frequency inductors to accelerate charging and discharging speed; use fast switching components such as gallium nitride (GaN) transistors to reduce on / off delay.

[0132] Memory chip optimization: shorten power supply path layout and reduce signal transmission loss; integrate self-refresh mode to maintain only critical data voltage to reduce wake-up time.

[0133] Figure 2 A block diagram of a video memory power management device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2 As shown, the device 20 includes:

[0134] The status detection unit 21 is used to detect the update status of the display screen;

[0135] The condition judgment unit 22 is used to determine whether the video memory meets the power saving conditions based on the blanking phase duration when a frame is displayed, when the display screen is not updated; the blanking phase duration includes the inactive time period from when the display completes a frame scan to when the next frame scan begins.

[0136] The operation unit 23 is used to periodically power on and off the video memory when the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions, so as to realize the low-power operation of the video memory.

[0137] In one possible implementation, the condition judgment unit is used for:

[0138] Compare the blanking phase duration with the total power state switching time of the video memory; the total power state switching time includes: the time required for the video memory to power down and the time required for the video memory to power on.

[0139] If the duration of the blanking phase is greater than the total power state switching time of the video memory, it is determined that the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions.

[0140] In one possible implementation, the operating unit is used for:

[0141] Configure the power-on / off cycles of the display memory within one frame of display time based on the duration of the scanning phase and the duration of the blanking phase within one frame of display time.

[0142] The video memory is powered down during the blanking phase of the display and powered on before the next frame scan begins, thus waking up the video memory.

[0143] In one possible implementation, the operating unit is used for:

[0144] Based on the display synchronization signal, the refresh cycle of the display and the power-on / off operation of the video memory are synchronized. The video memory is powered off during the blanking phase of the display refresh cycle and powered on before the next frame scan begins in the display refresh cycle.

[0145] In one possible implementation, the operating unit is used for:

[0146] When the display enters the blanking phase, a power-down operation is performed on the video memory, reducing the voltage of the video memory chips to the minimum threshold required to maintain data integrity, and turning off unnecessary clock signals.

[0147] In one possible implementation, the device further includes:

[0148] The acquisition unit is used to acquire the scanning phase percentage and blanking phase percentage of the display through the extended device descriptor EDID of the display.

[0149] The blanking phase duration determination unit is used to determine the blanking phase duration based on the display refresh rate and the blanking phase proportion.

[0150] In one possible implementation, the device further includes:

[0151] The exit unit is used to stop the periodic power-on and power-off operations on the video memory when a display screen update is detected, so as to exit the power-saving mode.

[0152] In one possible implementation, the device further includes:

[0153] The probability judgment unit is used to predict the probability of display screen updates at multiple future time points based on historical screen update patterns or user operation behavior models.

[0154] The exit unit is used to determine that the screen at the target time node is about to be updated when the probability of the screen being updated at the target time node is greater than a set probability threshold, and to exit the energy-saving mode before the target time node to avoid display delay.

[0155] In some embodiments, the functions or modules of the apparatus provided in this disclosure can be used to perform the methods described in the above method embodiments. The specific implementation can be referred to the description of the above method embodiments, and for the sake of brevity, it will not be repeated here.

[0156] This disclosure also provides an electronic device, including a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory, wherein the processor executes the computer program to implement the steps of the above method.

[0157] This disclosure also provides a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the above-described method.

[0158] This disclosure also provides a computer program product, including a computer program or a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium carrying the computer program, wherein the computer program, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the above method.

[0159] Figure 3 A block diagram of an apparatus for video memory power management according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. For example, apparatus 1900 may be provided as a server or terminal device. (Refer to...) Figure 3The apparatus 1900 includes a processing component 1922, which further includes one or more processors, and memory resources represented by memory 1932 for storing instructions, such as application programs, that can be executed by the processing component 1922. The application programs stored in memory 1932 may include one or more modules, each corresponding to a set of instructions. Furthermore, the processing component 1922 is configured to execute instructions to perform the methods described above.

[0160] Device 1900 may also include a power supply component 1926 configured to perform power management of device 1900, a wired or wireless network interface 1950 configured to connect device 1900 to a network, and an input / output interface 1958 (I / O interface). Device 1900 can operate on an operating system, such as Windows Server, stored in memory 1932. TM macOS X TM Unix TM Linux TM FreeBSD TM Or similar.

[0161] In an exemplary embodiment, a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium is also provided, such as a memory 1932 including computer program instructions that can be executed by a processing component 1922 of the device 1900 to perform the above-described method.

[0162] Computer-readable storage media can be tangible devices capable of holding and storing programs / instructions used by instruction execution devices. Computer-readable storage media can be, for example—but not limited to—electrical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, optical storage devices, electromagnetic storage devices, semiconductor storage devices, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of computer-readable storage media include: portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), static random access memory (SRAM), portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital multifunction disc (DVD), memory sticks, floppy disks, mechanical encoding devices, such as punch cards or recessed protrusions storing instructions thereon, and any suitable combination of the foregoing. The computer-readable storage media used herein are not to be construed as transient signals themselves, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through waveguides or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses through fiber optic cables), or electrical signals transmitted through wires.

[0163] The computer program (or computer-readable program instructions) described herein can be downloaded from a computer-readable storage medium to various computing / processing devices, or downloaded via a network, such as the Internet, local area network, wide area network, and / or wireless network, to an external computer or external storage device. The network may include copper transmission cables, fiber optic transmission, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers, and / or edge servers. A network adapter card or network interface in each computing / processing device receives the computer-readable program instructions from the network and forwards them to the computer-readable storage medium in the respective computing / processing device.

[0164] The computer program (or computer program instructions) used to perform the operations of this disclosure may be assembly instructions, instruction set architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine-dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, status setting data, or source code or object code written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Smalltalk, C++, etc., and conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as the "C" language or similar programming languages. The computer-readable program instructions may execute entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In cases involving remote computers, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer via any type of network—including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN)—or may be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider). In some embodiments, electronic circuits, such as programmable logic circuits, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or programmable logic arrays (PLAs), are personalized by utilizing state information of computer-readable program instructions. These electronic circuits can execute computer-readable program instructions to implement various aspects of this disclosure.

[0165] Various aspects of this disclosure are described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of this disclosure. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer-readable program instructions.

[0166] These computer-readable program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine such that, when executed by the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, they create means for implementing the functions / actions specified in one or more blocks of the flowchart and / or block diagram. These computer-readable program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that causes a computer, programmable data processing apparatus, and / or other device to operate in a particular manner; thus, the computer-readable medium storing the instructions comprises an article of manufacture that includes instructions for implementing aspects of the functions / actions specified in one or more blocks of the flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0167] Computer-readable program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby causing the instructions executed on the computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to perform the functions / actions specified in one or more boxes of a flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0168] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of an instruction containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. In some alternative implementations, the functions marked in the blocks may occur in a different order than those shown in the drawings. For example, two consecutive blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. It should also be noted that each block in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, may be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or action, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0169] The various embodiments of this disclosure have been described above. These descriptions are exemplary and not exhaustive, nor are they limited to the disclosed embodiments. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein is chosen to best explain the principles, practical application, or technical improvements to the embodiments in the market, or to enable others skilled in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A method for managing video memory power, characterized in that, include: Detect the update status of the displayed screen; When the display screen is not updated, the video memory is determined to meet the power saving conditions based on the blanking phase duration when displaying one frame. The blanking phase duration includes the inactive time period from when the display completes a frame scan to when the next frame scan begins. Under the condition that the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions, the video memory is periodically powered on and off to achieve low-power operation. The method of determining whether the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions based on the blanking phase duration when displaying one frame includes: determining that the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions when the blanking phase duration is greater than the total power state switching time of the video memory; the total power state switching time includes: the time required for the video memory to power off and the time required for the video memory to power on. The method of periodically powering on and off the video memory includes: configuring the power-on / off cycle of the video memory within a frame display duration based on the scanning phase duration and blanking phase duration of the display within a frame display duration; performing a power-off operation on the video memory when the display enters the blanking phase, and performing a power-on operation on the video memory before the start of the next frame scan, so as to complete the wake-up of the video memory.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The determination of whether the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions based on the blanking phase duration when displaying one frame includes: Compare the duration of the blanking phase with the total time spent switching the power state of the video memory.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of powering down the video memory during the blanking phase of the display and powering it up before the start of the next frame scan to wake up the video memory includes: Based on the display synchronization signal, the refresh cycle of the display and the power-on / off operation of the video memory are synchronized. The video memory is powered off during the blanking phase of the display refresh cycle and powered on before the next frame scan begins in the display refresh cycle.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The periodic power-on and power-off operation of the video memory includes: When the display enters the blanking phase, a power-down operation is performed on the video memory to reduce the voltage of the video memory chips to the minimum threshold required to maintain data integrity.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain the percentage of the scanning phase and the percentage of the blanking phase of the display by using the extended device descriptor EDID of the display. The duration of the blanking phase is determined based on the display refresh rate and the percentage of the blanking phase.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, After achieving low-power operation of the video memory, the method further includes: If a display update is detected, the periodic power-on and power-off operations on the video memory will be stopped to exit the power-saving mode.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, After achieving low-power operation of the video memory, the method further includes: Based on historical screen update patterns or user operation behavior models, predict the probability of screen updates at multiple future time points; If the probability of the display screen updating at the target time point is greater than a set probability threshold, it is determined that the screen at the target time point is about to be updated, and the power-saving mode is exited before the target time point to avoid display delay.

8. A video memory power management device, characterized in that, include: The status detection unit is used to detect the update status of the displayed screen; The condition judgment unit is used to determine whether the video memory meets the power saving conditions based on the blanking phase duration when displaying a frame when the display screen is not updated. The blanking phase duration includes the inactive time period from when the display completes a frame scan to when the next frame scan begins. The operation unit is used to periodically power on and off the video memory when the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions, so as to realize the low-power operation of the video memory. The total power state switching time includes: the time required for the video memory to power off and the time required for the video memory to power on. The condition judgment unit is used to determine that the video memory meets the energy-saving conditions when the blanking phase duration is greater than the total power state switching time of the video memory. The operation unit is configured to configure the power-on and power-off cycles of the video memory within a frame display duration based on the scanning phase duration and blanking phase duration of the display within a frame display duration; to perform a power-off operation on the video memory when the display enters the blanking phase, and to perform a power-on operation on the video memory before the start of the next frame scan, so as to complete the wake-up of the video memory.

9. An electronic device comprising a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory, characterized in that, The processor executes the computer program to implement the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. A non-volatile computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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