NVIDIA introduced the Auto Shader Compilation (ASC) feature in the latest update of the NVIDIA App, which brings a concrete solution to one of the most common problems in modern games: freezing due to shader loading.
The essence of the ASC function is simple: instead of shaders being compiled during gameplay, the system prepares them in advance while the computer is idle. In this way, the loading time of games is significantly shortened and the sudden drops in performance that occur when shaders are loaded “on the fly” are eliminated.
NVIDIA shader trick eliminates chopping in games
ASC is an optional feature and can be activated through the NVIDIA App in part Graphics → Global Settings → Shader Cache. When enabled, the system automatically starts the compilation process after installing a game or updating a graphics driver, but the user also has the option to start it manually.
In order to avoid overloading the system, NVIDIA has enabled resource utilization control, with the default setting being balanced. It is also important to note that all precompiled shaders are stored in a separate folder, which is why it is necessary to provide enough free space on the disk.
To use this function, a driver version marked 595.97 WHQL or later is required. Although NVIDIA is now rolling out this option, similar approaches already exist. Intel develops its own solutions based on shader cloud distribution, while Microsoft offers Advanced Shader Delivery technology through the Agility SDK.
It has not yet been confirmed whether NVIDIA is using its own implementation or relying on existing Microsoft or Intel technologies, but it is clear that the industry is moving towards one goal – eliminating lag and making the gaming experience as smooth as possible.