Graphics

Entry

Introduction

General

"Entry-Level" (also known as "Starter Graphics") is the basic graphics option for the Indigo systems. It is a simple 8bit framebuffer that supports a resolution of 1024*768 at 60 Hz. The only real advantage of this board is that it has a 13W3 and a VGA style connector so it is easy to attach a normal VGA/Multiscan-PC-Monitor to the Silicon Graphics machine.

There is also an "Entry-Level" option for the Crimson systems which actually can also be used in PowerSeries systems. The Entry level board is the same that is used in the Indigo but it is installed using an extender board which contains the interface logic for the graphics bus as well as some physical accomodatio. Hinv reports "LG1", gfxinfo "LG1MP".

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Technology

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Boards

Versions

The Entry level option comes in these verions:

LG1: The base entry level board is a small GIO32 card that is extended by a metal plate to fill the card slot of the Indigo system.
LG2: The LG2 includes the same technology but it is a full size (Indigo card) PCB. One half has the Song and Dancing machine logo and names of the developers printed on it.
LG2X2: Dual head version of the LG1 graphics board. Despite the numbering it does have neither the logo nor the names printed on it.

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Setup

Indigo

The Entry graphics board is simply installed in the graphics option slot present in all Indigo systems. It connects to the GIO32 bus via a connector on the backplane of the Indigo.

Crimson

Installing an Entry graphics board in a Crimson / PowerSeries requires an additional MG1 interface board that makes a connection from the cards GIO bus to the to the MP bus of the Crimson. The MG1 interface board along with the Entry level graphics option is installed into the slot that is intended for the GM.

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