mhwd-gpu
Manage Manjaro GPU drivers
TLDR
Show current Xorg configuration path
Check if Xorg configuration has a valid symlink
Set a custom Xorg configuration for an Nvidia GPU
Set a custom Xorg configuration for an AMD GPU
Display help
SYNOPSIS
`mhwd-gpu [options]`
Examples of common GPU-related operations (utilizing underlying mhwd functionality):
List installed GPU drivers:
`mhwd-gpu -l`
List all available GPU drivers:
`mhwd-gpu -l -a`
Install a specific proprietary GPU driver (e.g., video-nvidia):
`sudo mhwd-gpu -i video-nvidia`
Remove an installed GPU driver (e.g., video-nvidia):
`sudo mhwd-gpu -r video-nvidia`
Auto-install recommended proprietary GPU drivers:
`sudo mhwd-gpu -a pci nonfree 0300`
Note: This command typically relies on the broader `mhwd` utility, with `mhwd-gpu` acting as a conceptual or legacy alias/wrapper for GPU-specific operations.
PARAMETERS
-l, --list
Lists installed GPU drivers. Use with `-a` to show all available drivers for detection.
-i, --install
Installs the specified GPU driver. Requires root privileges. E.g., `video-nvidia`.
-r, --remove
Removes the specified installed GPU driver. Requires root privileges.
-a, --auto [pci|usb] [free|nonfree] [class_id]
Automatically installs recommended drivers based on detected hardware. For GPUs, typical arguments are `pci nonfree 0300`.
--setxorg
Configures Xorg to use the specified GPU driver. Often used internally or for troubleshooting Xorg display issues.
-f, --force
Forces an operation (e.g., installation or removal), potentially overriding warnings or existing configurations.
--force-reload
Forces a reload of the mhwd configuration cache, useful after system updates or driver changes.
-h, --help
Displays the help message with available options for mhwd-gpu (or the underlying mhwd).
-v, --version
Displays the version information of the mhwd-gpu utility.
DESCRIPTION
`mhwd-gpu` is a command-line utility for Manjaro Linux users, designed to simplify the management of graphics card drivers. It functions as a specialized interface within the broader Manjaro Hardware Detection (MHWD) framework, focusing specifically on GPU-related operations. This tool allows users to easily list currently installed and available drivers, install specific proprietary or open-source drivers, and remove existing ones. It abstracts away the complexities of manual driver installation, Xorg configuration, and dependency resolution, making it straightforward to switch between different driver versions or to set up the correct drivers after system installation. `mhwd-gpu` primarily supports NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel graphics hardware, ensuring users can achieve optimal performance and stability with minimal manual intervention. While `mhwd` is the general hardware detection tool, `mhwd-gpu` can be thought of as the GPU-centric component or an alias for GPU-specific `mhwd` commands.
CAVEATS
`mhwd-gpu` (and the broader `mhwd` framework) is designed for and primarily functions within Manjaro Linux. Using these commands on other distributions may lead to unexpected behavior, system instability, or breakage. Always back up your system before making significant driver changes, especially when dealing with proprietary graphics drivers. Incorrect driver installations can result in a black screen, unbootable system, or an unstable graphical environment. It's recommended to understand the specific driver you are installing and its compatibility with your kernel and hardware before proceeding.
DRIVER TYPES
Manjaro distinguishes between free (open-source) and nonfree (proprietary) drivers. Open-source drivers (e.g., `video-linux`, `video-modesetting`) are generally pre-installed and offer broad compatibility. Proprietary drivers (e.g., `video-nvidia`, `video-amd-gpu-pro`) often provide better performance for gaming and professional applications but can be more sensitive to kernel updates and require more careful management.
XORG CONFIGURATION
After driver installation or removal, `mhwd-gpu` (or `mhwd`) typically manages the Xorg configuration files (e.g., `/etc/X11/xorg.conf.d/`) to ensure the correct driver is loaded by the display server. Manual intervention in these files is rarely needed, as the tool automates the process, unless troubleshooting complex issues or custom setups.
HISTORY
`mhwd-gpu` is an integral component of the Manjaro Hardware Detection (MHWD) project, developed to simplify hardware and driver management for Manjaro Linux users. Since Manjaro aims to provide an accessible and user-friendly Arch Linux-based distribution, tools like `mhwd-gpu` were crucial for abstracting the often complex process of installing and configuring graphics drivers, particularly proprietary NVIDIA and AMD drivers. Its development focused on ensuring a smooth out-of-the-box experience and easy driver switching, making Manjaro a popular choice for users who need robust hardware support without manual configuration hassles. Historically, it might have existed as a more distinct script, but its functionality is now tightly integrated or aliased within the main `mhwd` command.


