Continuing my writing note on my dell laptop components and ICs, I want here to write note on the GPU used in my dell laptop. Previously I wrote note on the Intel CPU Ivy/Sandy Bridge and other important ICs such as Panther Point Intel PCH chipset, I/O controller IC also called KBC(Keyboard Controller). I also wrote about the interfacing technology DMI (Direct Media Interface) and FDI (Flexible Display Interface) used between the CPU and the PCH. Now I wanted to know the interface between the CPU(Central Processing Unit) and the GPU(Graphics Processing Unit) in dell laptop.
The GPU used in my dell laptop is AMD Thames Pro ROBSON manufactured by AMD(Advanced Micro Devices). The AMD Thames Pro (ROBSON-GP-U) refers to a discrete graphics solution or GPU technology from AMD, likely part of the Radeon HD 7000M series (codenamed "Thames").
Here's a breakdown of its role in the system:
GPU Key details:
Function:
The AMD Thames Pro is a discrete GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) used in this laptop to handle graphics rendering, complementing or replacing the integrated Intel HD Graphics (Ivy Bridge/Sandy Bridge).
It supports features like GDDR5 VRAM, PCIe x8 connectivity, and AMD-specific display outputs (e.g., LVDS, TMDS for HDMI).
Context in the Schematic:
The schematic mentions "UMA/Discrete" configurations, indicating the system supports both integrated (Intel UMA) and discrete (AMD Thames Pro) graphics.
The GPU interfaces with the Panther Point HM77 PCH (Platform Controller Hub) via PCIe and handles outputs like LVDS (for the internal display) and HDMI.
Technical Specifications:
VRAM: Likely GDDR5 (as noted in the schematic under "VRAM(GDDR5)").
PCIe Lanes: Connected via PCIe x8 (mentioned in the block diagram).
Display Outputs: Supports LVDS (internal LCD), HDMI, and possibly DisplayPort via TMDS.
Purpose:
Provides higher graphics performance for gaming, multimedia, or GPU-accelerated tasks compared to the integrated Intel graphics.
Enables multi-monitor support and advanced display features.
Why "ROBSON-GP-U"?
ROBSON-GP-U might be a Dell-specific part number or PCB designation for the AMD Thames Pro GPU module. Dell often uses proprietary codes for components.
Comparison to Other GPUs:
The schematic also references "PX solution" (likely AMD's Enduro/PowerXpress technology for switching between integrated and discrete GPUs to save power).
