MediaGX Processor FAQs

What is the Cyrix MediaGX™ processor?
Is the MediaGX a totally new design?
How does the MediaGX processor work?
How does a MediaGX-based PC differ from WebTV or Internet boxes?
Is the MediaGX processor compatible with existing software?
What is the performance of the 6x86 processor?
What MediaGX processors are currently available?
How can I purchase the MediaGX processor?
What manufacturers are offering PCs with the MediaGX processor?
What if I have more 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 controls and put these functions within the processor unit. 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.
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. Without the MediaGX processor, many of the mainstream PC multimedia features would not be possible in computer priced at less than $1,000.
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 does a MediaGX-based PC differ from WebTV or Internet boxes?: A. Current MediaGX-based PCs have been designed to be stand-alone 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, consumers can get a PC at an affordable price without compromising the latest features.
Q. Is the MediaGX processor compatible with existing software?: A. Yes. The MediaGX is compatible with today's Windows-compatible software and major operating systems.
Q. What is the performance of the MediaGX processor?: A. The performance of the MediaGX processor is equivalent to that of Pentium® processors at the same megahertz levels.
Q. What MediaGX processors are currently available?: A. The MediaGX processor is offered at 120 and 133MHz and is in volume production now.
Q. How can I purchase the MediaGX processor?: A. At this time, the MediaGX processor is only available through direct sales to large volume customers (PC manufacturers) who market their PCs through retail channels. It is not available to the reseller/VAR distribution channel at this time. We will continue to evaluate the market to determine how best to satisfy the VAR channel demand.
Q. What manufacturers are offering PCs with the MediaGX processor?: A. Compaq Computer Corporation is using the MediaGX processor in its Presario 2100. Cyrix is working with other OEM manufacturers who are expected to announce products in the near future.
Q. What if I have more questions?: A. Please contact Cyrix Support.