Valve recently unveiled its upcoming Steam Machine hardware, generating excitement among gamers. However, the official specifications revealed that the device will support HDMI 2.0 output. This revelation raised concerns about the absence of the more advanced HDMI 2.1 standard, which was introduced in 2017.
HDMI 2.1 Support and Current Challenges
Despite the hardware’s capability to support HDMI 2.1, Valve faces challenges in fully implementing this standard. The issue primarily stems from ongoing development of Linux drivers necessary for full support. Valve disclosed that it is actively working on these drivers, which are crucial for unlocking HDMI 2.1 features.
Limitations of Open Source Implementation
The HDMI Forum manages the specifications for HDMI standards and has prohibited open source implementations of HDMI 2.1. This restriction directly affects the open source AMD drivers that are part of SteamOS, making it difficult to realize specific features of the HDMI 2.1 standard.
AMD engineer Alex Deucher mentioned that creating an open source version of HDMI 2.1 is currently unfeasible, as it would violate HDMI Forum requirements. This limitation has prompted Valve to validate the Steam Machine’s HDMI 2.1 hardware while conducting testing under Windows.
Efforts to Improve SteamOS HDMI Performance
Valve remains committed to enhancing HDMI performance through SteamOS. A company representative indicated that improvements are underway to resolve issues associated with HDMI output. These efforts are aimed at removing the current restrictions related to resolution and frame-rate limits.
Increasing Frame Rates for 4K Outputs
- HDMI 2.0 has a maximum frame rate of 60 Hz for 4K outputs.
- Valve successfully boosted this limit to 120 Hz for 4K output.
- This enhancement was achieved using a technique called chroma sub-sampling.
While challenges remain, Valve’s dedication to optimizing HDMI performance for the Steam Machine signals progress for gamers seeking to leverage the latest display technology.
