Abstract: A graphics system adapts a performance level to be sufficient to maintain a performance criterion in an acceptable range. In one embodiment, at least one utilization parameter of the core clock domain and the memory clock domain is monitored. In response to detecting an over-utilization condition, the performance level is increased to maintain the desired minimum number of frames per second. In response to detecting an under-utilization condition, the performance level is decreased to reduce power consumption and increase the lifetime of the graphics system.

Abstract: Overclocking parameters in a graphics system are automatically set. In one embodiment, in response to a user request, overclocking parameters for different sets of overclocking parameters are tested using a graphical stress test to select optimum overclocking parameters.

Abstract: A method for producing realistic shading of three-dimensional objects depicted in a graphics display system. Computationally efficient Gouraud shading is practiced in the rendering of images which routinely require Phong shading to obtain suitable realism. Gouraud shading is adaptively applied to polygon regions of preferably triangular shape at a granularity defined by heuristically derived relationships using surface normal vectors, incident light vectors and relative pixel separation information. When division of the base triangle is dictated, the methodology produces a mesh of polygons sized to be individually rendered with Gouraud shading yet provide Phong-like realism for the whole of the original polygon region.