Introduction to Embedded DisplayPort (eDP) version 1.5

12 Jan 2023 • 1 minute read

Embedded DisplayPort 1.5 (eDP 1.5) is an interface standard that is based on the DP 2.0 (DP standard), and it is designed to transport video between the system host, i.e., GPU, and device, i.e., display panel. It supports selective DP 2.0 features and additional features that are designed to conserve power. The diagram below, which is taken from the eDP 1.5 standard, shows a simplified eDP implementation.

Some of the main features supported by this standard are as follows:

Panel Replay (PR) allows for system-level power consumption. The Source device instructs the Sink device to capture a live active image in its buffer and display it continuously.
Adaptive Refresh Panel (ARP) – Conserves power by allowing a Sink device to retain an image longer between screen refreshes without needing the Remote Frame Buffer (RFB).
Aux-Less Advance Power Management (ALPM) – Allows the Source device to control the powers off capabilities with PHY-related sequences over the Main-Link.
Multi-SST Operation (MSO) - Allows a Source device to connect to multiple SST links over separate Main-link lanes at the same time. The Main-link RX will connect to either two or four separate segments in the Sink device.

The Embedded DisplayPort has become the de facto video standard for larger embedded displays. eDP 1.5 adds new features and protocols to significantly improve power optimization and gaming and media playback performance.

Cadence’s DisplayPort DPTX (Source device) and DPRX (Sink Device) Verification IPs (VIPs) have over 600 protocol checks and a coverage model for both devices. It is a mature and proven solution used for comprehensive functional verification. Visit the DisplayPort website for more details. Check other DisplayPort-related articles: