The Latest On RandR 1.3

For those not satisfied by RandR 1.2 or just wish to live on the cutting-edge of X.Org developments (like us), this week on the X.Org mailing list has been a discussion among driver developers surrounding RandR 1.3. RandR 1.3 is the next update to the Resize and Rotate (RandR) extension that allows for resizing, rotating, and reflecting of the X screen. With the RandR 1.2 update it had introduced display hot-plugging support. When it comes to features, RandR 1.3 is most notably expected to introduce GPU object support. This GPU object support is another layer between the X screen and the CRTCs. Ultimately, this should allow multiple GPUs to be merged into a single X screen.

Jesse Barnes had initiated the RandR 1.3 discussion this week by proposing two additions that would reduce mode-setting flickers and an output property method that would allow other properties to stay up-to-date with events that bypass the driver (i.e. back-light changes from hot-key events). Alex Deucher had then proposed an additional level of abstraction for encoders and connectors, rather than just outputs. Other items brought up by developers include exposing the i2c bus in RandR, support for monitor calibration controls, and multi-card support. Read more on the X.Org mailing list.

RandR 1.3 is targeted for X Server 1.5 / X.Org 7.4, but it could be delayed (v1.5 has already lost the "input hotness"). The X Server 1.5 release is planned for March of this year, but a delay is expected. For more on the current capabilities of RandR, check out our newbie's guide to RandR 1.2.