Adding Freesync (or G-Sync) to an Older Monitor - Possible?
Almost two years ago I purchased a Samsung U28D590D 4k monitor from eBay, before it was officially released. At the time, it was the cheapest 3840x2160 60hz monitor to ever hit the market, and it even had some pretty stellar specs for a mid-grade TN panel. With a 1ms response time, 10-bit color (using frame-rate control), and multiple 4k compatible inputs, it seemed like a super appealing option. This was until six months later, when it was revealed that the u28D590D's successor, the u28E590D, would support AMD's new Freesync technology, being one of the first to do so (and possibly the first with 4k resolution). Despite being otherwise satisfied with the monitor, I couldn't help but feel a bit of early adopter's remorse.2016-02-11 by vertigo
◄But wait, I thought to myself! The monitors are basically the same, right? Can't they just release a software update for the older ones to add Freesync? Well, no. Aside from lacking a USB port to receive updated firmware, Freesync is a hardware standard. It requires Displayport 1.2, as well as some processing hardware to accept the variable frame rate. This didn't deter me, however, and recently I began exploring the possibility again. Some exhaustive research led to the discovery that, aside from having a visually similar cabinet and identical panel specifications, the monitors were even closer than I thought. In fact, the LCD panels themselves even have the same part number.
Now, before I go any further, keep this in mind: Experimentation like this always comes with a risk, regardless of however foolproof it may seem. Other variables, such as power supply voltage, internal connector layout, or even a revised timing controller board attached to the LCD panel could have rendered this a futile endeavour, and could even have led to permanent damage. Fortunately, that's not what happened. I was able to find a bare replacement mainboard from samsungparts.com, and today, it arrived. After eagerly, though carefully, disassembling my precious display (which was a major pain due to the screwless clip-on style enclosure), replacing the board, and powering it up, I was greeted with a working image - and after enabling Freesync via the monitor's interface, I was up and running.
It was pretty much everything I'd hoped it'd be. Games felt smooth even when dropping below 60fps, and tearing was completely eliminated. Every game I've tried thus far, aside from Fallout 4, behaves wonderfully. The new mainboard also features an HDMI 2.0 port for 4k 60hz, MHL support, support for up to 64hz via Displayport, and improved image processing and upscaling - very evident when the monitor is being sent a 1080p signal. Despite my victory, I've been left wondering what the implications of this are for people in similar scenarios. What if, for example, you'd purchased the Dell P2815Q, a monitor that very likely uses the same panel as the Samsung but is stuck with an input board that only supports 4k at 30hz? This is where things become more complicated for sure. Generally, a specific panel will come equipped with a specific T-CON board designed to run it, which connects to a monitor's main board using a connection based on the LVDS standard. In theory, one might be able to purchase this mainboard, an appropriate power supply, modify the housing of the monitor to accommodate it, and enjoy and upgraded 60hz Freesync experience. But don't take my word on that.
When it comes down to it, it pays to research - even if the information you're looking for doesn't immediately present itself. In theory I saved myself a couple hundred dollars at least, including the cost of the new mainboard, by upgrading my monitor rather than replacing it. You may be able to do the same. Afterall, this was the case with the Asus VG248QE, which originally shipped without G-Sync support but later could be upgraded via a mainboard replacement. Although hardware manufacturers might not always present this information outright, careful observation and a little risk taking can yield very positive results - sometimes, at least.
-> For those thinking of doing this, here's the part I ordered. Shipping took about a week. Remember, TRY THIS AT YOUR OWN RISK! samsungparts.com/Products/Parts_and_Accessories/PID-BN94-08351S.aspx?model=U28E590D
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