X.org: Flicker-Free Boot by Migrating Mode Settings
The X.org developers are working on moving a less prominent component from userspace to kernel space: mode setting controls.
In contrast to the trend of migrating functions from kernel to userspace, some X.org developers are working on moving mode setting controls into the kernel. This approach will lead to improved, flicker-free boot behavior among other things. The mode settings code is responsible for changing to and returning from suspend state and for the change to and from the graphical interface on the virtual terminal. These changes will benefit most from migrating the code. The ugly switch between different resolution modes will disappear, avoiding driver-specific freezes at the same time.
The drawback with the new mode settings is that they are currently only available for Intel's GMA 915 graphics chipset – the manufacturer took an active role in development. However, work is in progress on kernel space drivers for ATI Radeon chips.
More drivers may be added before the new feature makes the kernel. The developers have not yet introduced the mode settings code to the mainline kernel, and do not anticipate doing so before the end of the Linux 2.6.26 merge window. The next kernel 2.6.27 seems a more reasonable target. Interested users can still grab a sneak preview of the new feature; the next generation of Fedora Core 9 will include the Intel kernel space driver.
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
Framework Laptop 13 Pro Competes with the Best
Framework has released what might be considered the MacBook of Linux devices.
-
The Latest CachyOS Features Supercharged Kernel
The latest release of CachyOS brings with it an enhanced version of the latest Linux kernel.
-
Kernel 7.0 Is a Bit More Rusty
Linux kernel 7.0 has been released for general availability, with Rust finally getting its due.
-
France Says "Au Revoir" to Microsoft
In a move that should surprise no one, France announced plans to reduce its reliance on US technology, and Microsoft Windows is the first to get the boot.
-
CIQ Releases Compatibility Catalog for Rocky Linux
The company behind Rocky Linux is making an open catalog available to developers, hobbyists, and other contributors, so they can verify and publish compatibility with the CIQ lineup.
-
KDE Gets Some Resuscitation
KDE is bringing back two themes that vanished a few years ago, putting a bit more air under its wings.
-
Ubuntu 26.04 Beta Arrives with Some Surprises
Ubuntu 26.04 is almost here, but the beta version has been released, and it might surprise some people.
-
Ubuntu MATE Dev Leaving After 12 years
Martin Wimpress, the maintainer of Ubuntu MATE, is now searching for his successor. Are you the next in line?
-
Kali Linux Waxes Nostalgic with BackTrack Mode
For those who've used Kali Linux since its inception, the changes with the new release are sure to put a smile on your face.
-
Gnome 50 Smooths Out NVIDIA GPU Issues
Gamers rejoice, your favorite pastime just got better with Gnome 50 and NVIDIA GPUs.