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Virtual Address Space Usage In Windows Game Development

Virtual Address Space Usage in Windows Game Development
August 2, 2007
Abstract
Windows Vista® significantly improved the way in which the operating system handles the graphic processing unit (GPU). The Windows Vista Display Driver Model (WDDM) enables better sharing of GPU resources among multiple graphics applications. The video memory manager component of WDDM virtualizes the available video memory resources for applications to use. This enables the new Windows Aero experience to run alongside other applications, such as video playback, which also use the GPU.
However, the virtualization of video memory increases the amount of virtual address space that applications use. Consequently, some applications may exhaust virtual address space when running on 32-bit Windows Vista. This paper describes the types of applications that might encounter such problems and the steps that Microsoft is taking to reduce virtual address space pressure for games running under WDDM.

This information applies for the Windows Vista operating system.
The current version of this paper is maintained on the Web at:
http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/device/display/WDDM_VA.mspx

References and resources discussed here are listed at the end of this paper.

Contents
Introduction 3
Virtual Address Space Limits in 32-Bit Windows 3
Solutions 4
Interim Solution 4
Long-Term Solution 4
Resources 5

Disclaimer
This is a preliminary document and may be changed substantially prior to final commercial release of the software described herein.

The information contained in this document represents the current view of Microsoft Corporation on the issues discussed as of the date of publication. Because Microsoft must respond to changing market conditions, it should not be interpreted to be a commitment on the part of Microsoft, and Microsoft cannot guarantee the accuracy of any information presented after the date of publication.

This White Paper is for informational purposes only....