Ad-Hoc Group Continues Exploring
Application-Based DirectX Benchmarks
SPEC/GPC has sponsored two meetings with concurrent teleconferences to explore opportunities for new DirectX benchmarks. Based on the level of interest, an ad-hoc group, led by Jeff Ma of Intel, has been formed to further discuss DirectX benchmarking and the possibilities of forming a project group within SPEC/GPC. Participants in initial meetings include representatives from 3Dlabs, AMD, ATI, Compaq, Dell, Fujitsu-Siemens, Intel, Microsoft and NVIDIA. Other organizations and individuals are welcome to participate.

Participants in the group favor application-based benchmarks over synthetic ones. There was a strong preference for benchmarks that go beyond graphics to exercise the entire system, including CPU and I/O. The greatest interest is in DirectX benchmarks based on best-selling games within different genres. Repeatability and standardization of run rules, testing environments and results reporting are important considerations. Currently, the group is investigating options for partnering with other organizations that are developing new DX-based gaming benchmarks or are interested in doing so.

Future face-to-face and telecon meetings are planned for the new group. Updates will be posted on www.spec.org/gpc. Those interested in participating in future meetings or discussions can e-mail [email protected].