intel_extreme driver stuck in 16-bit mode

[luroh]

device Display controller (VGA compatible controller, VGA controller) [3|0|0]
  vendor 8086: Intel Corporation
  device 27a2: Mobile 945GM/GMS, 943/940GML Express Integrated Graphics Controller

My laptop display is stuck in 16-bit mode until removing the intel_extreme driver, although the screen preflet indicates it's operating in 32-bit mode. Vesa mode works fine.

[jackburton]

How can you tell it's in 16 bit mode ?

[luroh]

If you look closely, the "HAIKU" letters in the screenshot display color bands around the edges (which are not present when using vesa).

[luroh]

Oh, sorry, looking at the screenshot, you cannot actually see any color bands. I guess I just took it for granted they would show up in a screenshot, but that's obviously not the case. I'll revert shortly with a photo instead. :)

[luroh]

Ok, it turns out getting the color bands to appear on a photo is not the easiest thing, so I guess you have to take my word for it. Anyhow, since the screenshot doesn't display any color bands, it seems the buffer is 32-bit but actual rendering is 16-bit.

[luroh]

Closing as duplicate of #5214 which has more info and better pictures.