Mobile 3D Graphics SoC: From Algorithm to Chip

Preface

This is a book about low-power high-performance 3D graphics for SoC (system-on-chip). It summarizes the results of 10 years of “ramP” research at KAIST (ramP stands for RAM processor)– anational project that was sponsoredby the Korean government for low-power processors integrated with high-density memory. The book is mostly dedicated to 3D graphics processors with less than 500 mW power consumption for small-screen portable applications

Screen images continuetobecome ever-more dramatic and fantastic. These changes are accelerated by the introduction of more realistic 3D effects. The 3D graphics technology makes vivid realism possible on TVand computer screens, especially for games. Complicated and high-performance processors are required to realize the 3D graphics. Rather than use a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), dedicated 3D graphic processors have been adopted to run the complicated graphics software.

There is no doubt that all the innovations in PCor desktop machines will be repeated in portable devices. Cellphones and portable game machines now have relatively large screens with enhanced graphics functions. High-performance 3D graphics units are included in the more advanced cellphones and portable game machines, and for these applications a low power consumption is crucial. In spite of the increasing interest in 3D graphics, it is difficult to find a book on portable 3D graphics. Although the principles, algorithms and software issues have been well ...