14 DAY TRIAL // Kontron and XGI joined forces in order to develop the very first "Universal Graphics Module" standard for high-end PEG graphics. The new UGM standard defines an 84 x 95 mm universal graphics-on-module which can be directly integrated in all current and future flat displays.
Unlike the conventional dedicated graphics card placement at a 90 degree angle on the motherboard, the UGM card is plugged in parallel to the motherboard in order to save space, thus allowing extremely flat and custom-scalable designs. The first UGM modules will be available from Kontron in the first half of 2007. The full specifications of the new standard will be disclosed to third-party providers some time around Q1 2007.
"By working closely with the leading manufacturer in the field of industrial PC, it has again shown XGI's determination not only be a participant but a leader in the industry. In addition, the UGM was defined based on Kontron's experience in long term available industrial PC and XGI's expertise in graphics. Therefore, we will be looking forward to its future success", said Wei Wei Yin, Sales Director of XGI Technology.
Via the 220 pins connector, UGM cards receive PCI-Express signals over 1, 4, 8, or 16 lanes (PEG). Video signals, including video capture functions, are processed with the aid of up to 512 MB video RAM. For playback sources, the UGM 1.0 specifications currently support Dual LVDS, Dual DVI, and Dual VGA.
On the graphics baseboard itself, developers may decide which sound, USB, and DVI for HDMI signal combinations will be made available to the external connectors. XGI claims that the UGM graphics processing core is already finished and all necessary drivers are implemented as we speak. Furthermore, with a 5V DC power supply, up to 45 W thermal design power is allowed in accordance with the UGM specifications. As a result, the UGM can perfectly support even absolutely high-end games with the highest frame rates and all graphics optimization algorithms. It would be interesting to see UGM-powered LCD displays that can run games like the upcoming Crysis.