IBM's PGA Adapter

From: Dave McGuire <mcguire_at_neurotica.com>
Date: Sun Apr 22 21:19:51 2001

On April 22, jpero_at_sympatico.ca wrote:
> > Hi. Can anybody provide me with some info on the IBM PGA/PGC adapters for
> > the IBM PC/XT systems?
> >
> > I heard that it is one of the first video adapters with on-board transform
> > capabilities, and that it is very ahead of its time. Can anyone please
> > elaborate?
> > Also, where can I get some pictures, and is it still available for
> > purchase?
>
> Half-half acceleration due to built in CPU and can compute arcs,
> lines etc for cad work I think.
>
> But I know PGA is grossly unusual design and unrealistic cost kept it
> from very common plus it requires non-standard PGA monitor to go with
> it. Cost was about 5,000 I think.
>
> BTW, it is 3 boards package and monitor. Saw both monitor and card
> set but not in action.

  If memory serves, the PGA had an 8085 processor on it. Interesting
use of an otherwise general-purpose microprocessor.

<flame bait>
  Indeed, an XT-class system with a PGA had a better processor on its
video board than it did on its motherboard.
</flame bait>

        -Dave McGuire
Received on Sun Apr 22 2001 - 21:19:51 BST