Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling: What It Is and How to Turn It On”

Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling: What It Is and How to Turned it On

GPU hardware scheduling is a crucial component that enhances the performance of your computer’s graphics processing unit (GPU) while reducing input delay.

This feature optimizes the way tasks are managed and executed by the GPU, resulting in smoother and more responsive graphics performance. By understanding how GPU hardware scheduling works, you can unlock the full potential of your GPU and make your PC feels faster.

Let’s take a closer look at how this feature functions and how it can benefit your system.

What is Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling and How Does it Work?

In the Windows operating system, the GPU scheduler, known as the Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM) GPU scheduler, manages multiple processes that send tasks to the GPU.

While the GPU handles rendering, it’s the CPU’s job to plan and send these tasks to the GPU. To enhance efficiency, the CPU groups commands together instead of sending them one by one.

This technique, called frame buffering, improves frame rates and overall performance. However, it also introduces some input delay.

When you interact with your computer, like pressing a button, there can be a slight delay before the action takes place. This delay occurs because the CPU needs to finish the current batch of commands and submit a new one to the GPU.

Although the delay is minimal, it can be noticeable in certain situations.

Introducing Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling

To reduce the workload on the CPU and minimize input delay, Microsoft introduced the hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling feature.

This feature involves transferring some high-priority tasks, typically handled by the CPU, to a dedicated GPU-based scheduling processor.

By offloading these tasks to the GPU, the CPU can focus on other important processes, potentially leading to a more responsive system. Enabling GPU hardware scheduling should particularly benefit graphics-intensive activities like gaming, video editing, or live streaming using software like OBS (especially if you are using NVENC encoder).

Should You Turn Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling On or Off?

The decision to enable GPU hardware scheduling depends on various factors, such as your computer’s specifications and your usage patterns. If you have a lower or mid-tier CPU and experience high CPU usage during resource-demanding games, it’s worth considering enabling this feature.

However, keep in mind that not all systems support GPU hardware scheduling.

If this option isn’t available to you, there are alternative methods to improve your computer’s performance without upgrading hardware.

For example, you can disable frame buffering through in-game settings or your GPU driver control panel. This can enhance performance on an older PC, allowing you to continue enjoying visually appealing games.

It’s important to note that the impact of enabling GPU hardware scheduling can vary from system to system. According to Microsoft, there shouldn’t be significant differences in-game. However, you might notice positive changes when monitoring your CPU’s temperature and usage.

How to Enable GPU Hardware Scheduling via Windows Settings

To enable GPU hardware scheduling on your Windows 10 or Windows 11 system, follow these simple steps:

Enabling GPU Hardware Scheduling in Windows 10

1. Click the Start button and go to Settings > System.
2. Select Display from the left-hand menu.
3. Scroll down to the Multiple Displays section and click Graphics settings.
4. Turn on the Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling toggle switch.
5. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

Enabling GPU Hardware Scheduling in Windows 11

1. Open Windows Settings and navigate to System > Display.
2. In the Related settings section, click Graphics.
3. Choose Change Default Graphics Settings.
4. Enable the toggle switch next to Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling.
5. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

By following these steps, you can enable GPU hardware scheduling on your Windows system and potentially enhance your graphics performance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, GPU hardware scheduling is a valuable feature that optimizes GPU performance and reduces input delay.

Understanding how it works and considering your computer’s specifications will help you make an informed decision about enabling this feature for an improved computing experience, either it for gaming or streaming.