MediaGX™ Processor
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q. What is the Cyrix MediaGX™ processor?
- A. The MediaGX processor is a new generation of Windows®-compatible processors that are changing the way PCs are built -- and shrinking costs in the process. It integrates the sound, graphics and memory control by putting these functions within the processor. With all these functions pulled "on chip," MediaGX-based PCs can deliver all the processing features expected in more expensive PCs -- for a lot less cost.
- Q. Is the MediaGX processor a totally new design?
- A. Yes, the MediaGX processor is a first for Cyrix and for the industry as a whole. Cyrix has engineered a new processor that will help PC manufacturers deliver full-featured multimedia PCs to consumers and businesses at a lower cost. Without the MediaGX processor, many of the mainstream PC multimedia features would not be possible in a computer priced at less than $1,000.
- Q. How can the Cyrix MediaGX processor integrate or replace the other chips that used to perform sound, graphics and memory control?
- A. To put it simply, Cyrix engineers have taken the functionality that supports sound, graphics and memory control and put these functions within the MediaGX architecture. As computers get more technically complex, this opens an opportunity where some computer functions become more efficient when handled directly in the processor.
A few years ago, the integration of this type was unheard of, which is why it's important
to point out our engineers had the foresight to see the future needs of the industry and develop a product to fit those needs.
- Q. How does the MediaGX processor work?
- A. The MediaGX processor integrates the PCI interface, coupled with audio, graphics and memory control functions, right into the processor unit. To pull the sound and graphics hardware onto the MediaGX processor, Cyrix enhanced the x86 architecture by creating four exclusive Cyrix processor features: XpressRAM™, XpressGraphics™, XpressAUDIO™ and Virtual System Architecture™ (VSA). See the MediaGX Marketing Brief for further details.
- Q. How many components in a PC will be replaced by a Cyrix MediaGX
processor?
- A. There are several levels at which the MediaGX processor replaces components in a PC. First, it is obvious from our discussion here that the MediaGX replaces
costly graphics and sound cards. Secondly, on the motherboard level, the MediaGX and
its companion chip, the Cx5510, replaces the processor, north and south bridge chips,
the memory control hardware and L2 cache. Finally, the simplified PC design of the
MediaGX along with its low power and low heat characteristics allow the OEM
PC manufacturer to design a system in a smaller form factor with a reduced power
supply requirement.
- Q. How does a MediaGX-based PC differ from WebTV or Internet boxes?
- A. Current MediaGX-based PCs have been designed to be stand-alone Windows-compatible multimedia PCs. They provide users with numerous functions for completing work at home, developing school projects, managing the household budget, surfing the Internet, receiving E-mail and so on. On the other hand, WebTV or Internet box concepts provide limited functionality and are designed to connect only to the Internet while using a TV as a display. With the MediaGX processor, consumers can get a PC at an affordable price without compromising the latest features.
- Q. Does the MediaGX run Windows and all of today's Windows-compatible software?
- A. Yes. The MediaGX is totally transparent to all software applications, thereby assuring compatibility.
- Q. How does a MediaGX system perform relative to competing Pentium® designs?
- A. A user can expect a MediaGX system to provide equivalent performance as a Pentium® system at the same MHz. The difference with the MediaGX is that this performance level is achieved at a much lower cost. Click here for MediaGX benchmarks.
- Q. What MediaGX processors are currently available?
- A.
The MediaGX processor is offered at 133, 150, 166 and 180MHz. All speed grades are in volume production now.
Q. Can I purchase a MediaGX processor and plug it into my Pentium® compatible motherboard?
A. No, the MediaGX processor is not a socket 7 compatible processor. Because of the processor’s high level of integration, motherboards supporting MediaGX processors and its companion chip (Cx5510) are of a different design. Additionally, the MediaGX processor is surface mounted on the motherboard. This integration and different motherboard design reduces cost and allows a motherboard with a MediaGX processor on it to cost less then any Pentium® processor and motherboard combination available while including graphics, audio, standard motherboard features and software compatibility.
Q. What manufacturers are offering PCs with the MediaGX processor?
A. Compaq Computer Corporation is using the MediaGX processor in its Presario 2200 line of personal computers which are available in over 2,000 retail computer stores. Additionally, IBM Canada has announced the Ambra Ispirati personal computer which uses the MediaGX processor.
Q. I’m a reseller and build my own systems. Are there any motherboards or ‘barebones’ systems available using the MediaGX processor?
A. Yes. FIC (First International Computers) has a ‘barebones’ MediaGX system called the Oasis Databook. Additionally, there are motherboards available from BCM Advanced Research, JM Computers and M Technology, Inc. Click here for more information on these reseller products.
Q. What if I have more questions?
A. Please contact Cyrix Support.
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