- RADEON VE Core clocked at 183MHz
- 32MB DDR SDRAM at 183MHz on 64-bit bus
- DVI-I interface for digital flat panel
- Analog output supporting S-Video and Composite
- CRT 15-pin VGA output
- DVD playback with motion compensation and iDCT
- HydraVision multi-monitor software
- 2D up to 2048x1536
- 3D up to 1920x1200
We our get our first impressions by how something looks, don't we? Before we even plugged the VE into our test bed, the number of connectors on the front panel impressed us. Since the RADEON VE boasts dual integrated RAMDAC's, it supports two analog devices. For instance, you can attach a TV through the enhanced S-Video port and a CRT to the VGA-out port. Similarly, an included adapter can be used to allow the 'DVI-I out' to function as an analog 15-pin VGA output for dual CRT's with independent displays (like the Matrox G450 or NVIDIA's GeForce2 MX). In the most extreme case, a CRT can be used in conjunction with a digital flat panel and a television, which clones the image on the DVI-I device.
The beauty of having several options is the versatility and power afforded. For instance, the integrated TMDS transmitter provides resolutions up to 1600x1200 from the DVI-I output. While Matrox's G450 also boasts integrated TMDS, the GeForce2 MX does not, and requires an external transmitter (soldered on the board) to offer similar functionality. Additionally, the VGA outputs each support up to 2048x1536 at 60Hz thanks to dual 300MHz RAMDACs.
Naturally, if high resolutions are to be supported, 2D clarity is essential. With this mentality, Matrox has fostered an excellent reputation for delivering video cards ideally paired with large monitors and high-resolutions.
The launch of the RADEON truly wowed us in the 2D arena. Though a quality ATI had not previously been known for, the RADEON's 2D was unmistakably sharper than previous solutions and made 1600x1200 on a 21" monitor pleasurable to work with. The VE comes equipped with a slightly less capable RAMDAC (two 300MHz RAMDAC versus the single 350MHz RAMDAC of the other RADEON cards). Because of this, the 2D output is a little less crisp then we're used to.