Operation (Windows NT)

5.3.2.2.2 Overlay Planes

The PowerStorm 300 AGP graphics controller on the Intel platform provides hardware support for 2-bit double-buffered overlay planes. Note that for performance reasons, not all pixel formats support overlay planes. If you do not require overlay planes, selecting a pixel format without overlay support will ensure maximum performance. The availability of pixel formats with overlay planes can be disabled by using the Display Applet.

5.3.2.2.3 Stencil Planes

The PowerStorm display driver provides hardware support for a 4-bit stencil buffer. Note that for performance reasons, not all pixel formats support stencil planes. If you do not require stencil planes, selecting a pixel format without stencil planes will ensure maximum performance. The availability of pixel formats with stencil planes can be disabled by using the Display Applet.

5.3.2.2.4 SoftImage Customizations

When using the PowerStorm 300 AGP graphics controller on the Intel platform with Microsoft’s SoftImage, you should enable SoftImage Customizations using the Display Applet. In addition, you also need to enable 4-bit overlay using the Display Applet. Before starting Softimage, you need to make sure that the following environment variable is set:

SI_OVERLAY = USE_ONE_BIT

When SoftImage Customizations are enabled, other OpenGL applications may not behave correctly. Therefore it is recommended that SoftImage Customizations be disabled before running other OpenGL applications.

5.3.3 Developing OpenGL Applications on Alpha Platforms

This section provides information for developing OpenGL applications that optimize the performance of PowerStorm 300/350 PCI graphics controllers on Windows NT Alpha platforms. If you have a PowerStorm 300 AGP graphics controller on an Intel platform, see Section 5.3.2.

5.3.3.1 Pixel Format Support

The PowerStorm 300/350 PCI graphics controllers and display drivers for the Windows NT Alpha platform support a fully compliant implementation of OpenGL in combination with Windows NT OpenGL. Color index mode support is provided by the Windows NT generic OpenGL implementation, and thus is not hardware-accelerated.

The display driver on the PowerStorm 300 PCI graphics controller for the Windows NT Alpha platform supports the pixel formats listed in Table 5-5. The display driver on the PowerStorm 350 PCI graphics controller for the Windows NT Alpha platform supports the pixel formats listed in Table 5-6.

PowerStorm 300 AGP and 300/350 PCI Graphics Controllers 5–9

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Compaq 300 Developing OpenGL Applications on Alpha Platforms, Overlay Planes, Stencil Planes, SoftImage Customizations

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.