Compaq 300 manual Installation Windows NT, Unpacking

Page 27

4

Installation (Windows NT)

4.1 Introduction

__________________________ Note _____________________________

Chapter 4 pertains to the Windows NT operating system only; if you are running Compaq Tru64 UNIX, see chapter 6.

____________________________________________________________

This chapter describes the installation of the PowerStorm 300 AGP and 300/350 PCI graphics controller in a Compaq Professional running the Windows NT operating system.

If your PowerStorm 300 AGP or 300/350 PCI graphics controllers came pre-installed, the software is already in place, and you do not need to perform the procedures in this chapter.

Topics included in this chapter are:

Hardware installation

Software installation

4.1.1Unpacking

The graphics controller option kit contains the graphics controller, the associated software, and this installation guide. The PowerStorm 300 AGP and 300/350 PCI software packages include a “break-the-seal” license and a compact disc (CD) containing the PowerStorm 300/350 display drivers.

PowerStorm 300 AGP and 300/350 PCI Graphics Controllers 4–1

Image 27
Contents Compaq Computer Corporation Houston, Texas JulyJuly Table of Contents Operation Windows NT Installation Compaq Tru64 UnixTables Operation Compaq Tru64 UnixPage Structure of This Guide PrefacePurpose of This Guide Who Should Use This GuideGetting Help Related DocumentationConventions Used in This Guide Reader’s CommentsCompaq Website Compaq Technical SupportCompaq Authorized Reseller Description PowerStorm 300 AGP Graphics Controller OverviewPowerStorm 300 AGP Graphics Controller Part Number IntroductionCompaq PowerStorm 300 AGP Software Support Minimum System WorkstationVersion PowerStorm 300 AGP Graphics Controller NLX Pin No. Signal Connector PinoutPowerStorm 300 AGP Graphics Controller Specifications SpecificationsPage PowerStorm 300 PCI Graphics Controller Overview PowerStorm 300 PCI Graphics Controller Part NumbersDigital Part Compaq Part Description Number PowerStorm 300 PCI Graphics Controller Compaq PowerStorm 300 PCI Software SupportConnector Pinout PCI PowerStorm 300 PCI Graphics Controller SpecificationsPowerStorm 350 PCI Graphics Controller PowerStorm 350 PCI Graphics Controller OverviewMinimum System Workstation ROM Revision Version Compaq PowerStorm 350 PCI Software SupportConnector Pinouts Stereo Connector Pinouts PowerStorm 350 PCI Graphics Controller Specifications Page Unpacking Installation Windows NTChanging the Bulkhead Bracket, PowerStorm 300 AGP Only Hardware InstallationInstallation of the Graphics Controller PowerStorm 300/350 Software Components on the CD Software InstallationMicrosoft Windows NT Software Installation PowerStorm 300/350 Software ComponentsPowerStorm 300 AGP and 300/350 PCI Graphics Controllers No Changes The above list matches my computer Installing/Upgrading PowerStorm Software Display DriversOpenGL Acceleration Choose the REALimage tm Settings tab Stereo Capability PowerStorm 350 PCI OnlyAfter Installation Changing the Screen Resolution and Refresh RateOperation Windows NT Operation Windows NT Managing Buffer Swap Resolution Vertical Refresh ratesIdentifying the Display Driver Version Using the Display AppletUsing OpenGL Using OpenGL ApplicationsDeveloping OpenGL Applications on Intel Platforms Pixel Format Support Rgba Pixel FormatTexture Mapping Performance ConsiderationsSoftImage Customizations Developing OpenGL Applications on Alpha PlatformsOverlay Planes Stencil Planes10PowerStorm 300 AGP and 300/350 PCI Graphics Controllers Operation Windows NT 12PowerStorm 300 AGP and 300/350 PCI Graphics Controllers Operation Windows NT 14PowerStorm 300 AGP and 300/350 PCI Graphics Controllers Operation Windows NT ∙ Storing alpha values so that they can be read later Alpha Buffers∙ Blending, using a destination alpha value 18PowerStorm 300 AGP and 300/350 PCI Graphics Controllers Installation Compaq Tru64 Unix Installation Compaq Tru64 Unix Installation Preparation and Information Required LicensePrerequisite Software Copying the Kit from CD-ROM Installing PowerStorm Display DriversBooting Compaq Tru64 Unix Alternate ConsoleUnpacking the Kit Installing the Kit6PowerStorm 300 AGP and 300/350 PCI Graphics Controllers Indicate whether you wish to modify the configuration file Tuning Techniques Configuration Recommendations# sysconfig -qsubsystemname Page Operation Compaq Tru64 Unix Operation Compaq Tru64 Unix Synchronizing Buffer SwapsDefault OpenGL Texel Size Identifying the Driver Version OpenGL Visual Support Indirect Contexts, GLXPixmaps, and the Software Renderer Visual ID Developing OpenGL Applications on Tru64 Unix0x21 0x22 0x23 0x24 Performance and Functionality Considerations 0x2d0x2f ∙ Blending using a destination alpha value Stencil Planes

300 specifications

The Compaq 300, introduced in the early 1990s, marked a pivotal moment in personal computing, combining cutting-edge technology with user-centric design. This desktop system was targeted at both business professionals and home users, reflecting the growing demand for powerful yet affordable computing solutions.

One of the main features of the Compaq 300 was its robust Intel processor. It originally shipped with various configurations of Intel's 80486 microprocessor, which provided a significant performance boost over its predecessors. The 486 architecture enabled users to run more complex applications, enhancing productivity and making it suitable for tasks ranging from word processing to graphics editing.

In terms of memory, the Compaq 300 supported up to 16MB of RAM, which was substantial for its time, allowing seamless multitasking of programs. The system typically included a 120MB IDE hard drive, which facilitated ample storage for documents and software, a critical aspect for users who needed to manage large volumes of data.

The Compaq 300 featured an integrated graphics card based on the popular VGA standard, enabling clear display quality for applications and gaming. Notably, its 14-inch CRT monitor that accompanied the system offered crisp visuals and an optimal viewing experience for users.

Another characteristic of the Compaq 300 was its expandability. The desktop came equipped with several expansion slots, allowing users to easily add components such as sound cards, network cards, or additional storage drives. This feature provided users with the flexibility to upgrade their systems as technology evolved, ensuring longevity in a rapidly changing landscape.

The Compaq 300 also showcased advanced connectivity options for its time. It included multiple serial and parallel ports, providing versatile connectivity with peripherals like printers, scanners, and modems. This adaptability was crucial, especially as businesses began to integrate more technology into their operations.

Durability and reliability were hallmarks of Compaq's design philosophy, and the Compaq 300 was no exception. Its solid construction and dependable components appealed to users who required a trustworthy system for daily tasks.

Overall, the Compaq 300 epitomized the intersection of performance, expandability, and reliability in desktop computing. Its innovative features and thoughtful design paved the way for future developments in the personal computer industry, making it a noteworthy entry in the history of computing technology.