VIA unveils integrated graphics

The VIA CN896 chipset boasts a Vista-ready integrated graphics processor

VIA Technologies has introduced a motherboard chipset with embedded graphics designed to add Vista-compatible graphics capability to its C7 and Eden processors in thin clients, mini PCs, and other low-power devices.

The VIA CN896 chipset integrates S3 Graphics technology in the shape of the Chrome9 HC integrated graphics processor (IGP), which supports 2D and 3D acceleration and is certified Vista-ready by Microsoft, according to VIA. The company acquired graphics firm S3 in 2000.

VIA's move follows that of AMD, which has also just unveiled a chipset with embedded graphics. But while the AMD product is aimed at mainstream desktops, VIA's CN896 is most likely to be combined with the firm's power-efficient VIA C7 and VIA Eden embedded processors in thin clients and ultra-mobile PCs (UMPCs).

“The VIA C7 processor and CN896 chipset combination provides all the flexibility in display options that embedded customers need, within a very low thermal profile,” said VIA vice president of product marketing Chewei Lin.

However, Lin added that the new chipset also meets the performance requirements for standard-sized systems, and is a robust, Vista-capable solution with good upgrade options. It features a PCI Express X16 bus connection that can be used to connect an external graphics adapter if required.