VideoLogic Plc, now a free-standing company after its demerger from Avesco Plc, yesterday introduced the GrafixStar 300, 500 and 700 graphics boards using the latest 64-bit graphics controllers from S3 Inc. They they can be upgraded to full VESA Media Channel capability by connecting the new VMC Controller daughterboard that incorporates VideoLogic’s PowerPlay 64 silicon: this enables multiple video functions such as MPEG playback, video display and video conferencing to be added as needed. The GrafixStar 300, 500, 700 use the S3 Trio, Vision868 and Vision968 graphics controllers and have either VESA local bus or Peripheral Component Interconnect bus; the 300 and 500 support up to 1,280 by 1,024 resolution and the 700 up to 1,600 by 1,200. Prices for the boards start from ú115 for the GrafixStar 300 up to ú275 for the GrafixStar 700; the GrafixStar family is planned to ship at the end of March.
