3 Interface Devices and Mass-Storage Drives

Matrox MGA Millennium Graphics Controller Board

Connectors

The Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) defines a standard video connector, variously known as the VESA feature connector, auxiliary connector, or pass-throughconnector. The video controller supports an output-only VESA feature connector in VGA mode. This connector (whose pin names are listed in a table on page 58) is integrated on the PCI board, is connected directly to the pixel data bus and the synchronization signals, and is automatically enabled all of the time.

There are two connectors on the back panel: the normal DB15 VGA connector, for connecting to HP displays, and a Media XL connector (used by the MPEG accessory, not supported by HP). The layout of the pins for the DB15 VGA connector are shown on page 62.

If you install a VESA-standard video accessory board that uses the MGA video adapter, connect the accessory board’s cable to the VESA pass- through connector on the board.

Video Memory

The video memory (also known as window RAM, or WRAM) is a local block of RAM for holding two major data structures: the double buffer (to hold one frame steady on the screen whilst the next one is being processed), and the Z-buffer (for storing depth information for each pixel). It is dual ported, so that it can be inputting and outputting simultaneously. There is also hardware support for Gouraud shading, Phong shading and texture mapping.

The Matrox MGA Millennium graphics controller board is supplied with 2 MB of video memory. This can be upgraded to 4 MB with a D3557B upgrade module, or to 8 MB with an MGA-MIL/MOD6 upgrade module (ordered from Matrox). The upgrade socket can alternatively be used for the installation of the Matrox MGA Media XL upgrade module (also ordered from Matrox) to support MPEG. The switch settings do not have to be changed.

Available Video Resolutions

The number of colors supported is limited by the graphics device and the video memory. The resolution/color/refresh-rate combination is limited by a combination of the display driver, the graphics device, and the video memory. If the resolution/refresh-rate combination is set higher than the display can support, you risk damaging the display.

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HP Vectra VL 5/xxx 5 manual Video Memory

Vectra VL 5/xxx 5 specifications

The HP Vectra VL 5/xxx was a series of desktop personal computers introduced by Hewlett-Packard in the mid-1990s. These machines were designed for both business and professional environments, making them suitable for a range of applications from basic office tasks to more demanding computing needs. This series played a significant role in HP's efforts to strengthen its market presence in the PC sector during a time when competition was intensifying.

One of the standout features of the HP Vectra VL 5/xxx line was its versatility. The series included various configurations designated by the '5/xxx' nomenclature, which indicated different performance levels and specifications. The performance was driven primarily by Intel Pentium processors, widely acclaimed for their reliability and efficiency. This allowed users to choose a model that suited their specific requirements, whether for everyday tasks or more resource-intensive applications.

In addition to its strong processing capabilities, the Vectra VL 5/xxx featured advanced graphics support, which was critical for visual applications and presentations. Many units in this series came equipped with onboard graphics capabilities that supported a range of resolutions, enhancing the user experience in both standard office environments and more creative settings.

Storage options were another highlight of the HP Vectra VL 5/xxx series. The machines typically featured a variety of hard drive configurations, allowing for ample data storage. Some models included the option for expanding storage through additional hard drives or external devices. Coupled with considerable RAM options, these machines ensured smooth multitasking and efficient performance across various applications.

Connectivity was also a core aspect of the Vectra VL 5/xxx. The systems typically included multiple USB ports, parallel and serial ports, and integrated networking capabilities. This made it easy for businesses to integrate the Vectra machines into their existing infrastructure, facilitating seamless interaction with peripherals and networks.

In terms of design, the HP Vectra VL 5/xxx series presented a robust yet compact form factor, which was ideal for office environments with limited space. Additionally, HP emphasized the reliability and serviceability of these machines, which included easy access to internal components for maintenance and upgrades, thereby extending the product life cycle.

Overall, the HP Vectra VL 5/xxx line offered a balanced combination of performance, flexibility, and reliability, making it a solid choice for organizations looking to leverage computing power for a range of professional applications. The series embodied HP's commitment to delivering quality and innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of personal computing.