MediaGX

The MediaGX was launched on February 20, 1997. Compaq would be using the chip in some of their computers such as the Presario 2000, which went on sale for $999. This was due to a partnership between Cyrix and Compaq. The MediaGX was first available in speeds of 120 and 133 MHz with pricing of $79 and $99. The 150 MHz version of the MedixGX was available by June of 1997. This version of the chip would be used in the Presario 2120. The 150 MHz chip would cost $99 each in bulk quantities with the 133 and 120 MHz costing $88 and $60. == Virtual Subsystem Architecture ==

Virtual Subsystem Architecture (VSA) emulates a presence of the real hardware VGA (XpressGRAPHICS) and Sound Blaster (XpressAUDIO). The access to the hardware resources traps via BIOS and emulates in the System Management Mode (SMM), enabling it to execute transparently to the operating system, drivers and applications. == Media GX ==

• Manufacturing process: 0.4 μm • Cache: L1 16 KB unified • Core speed: 120, 133, 150 MHz • Bus speed: 33 MHz == Media GXi ==

Cyrix MediaGXi is an improved version of the MediaGX. • Manufacturing process: 0.35 μm • Cache: L1 16 KB unified • Core speed: 120, 133, 150, 166, 180 MHz == MediaGXm ==

The MediaGXm is an improved MediaGX with an implementation of the MMX enhanced instruction set. • Manufacturing process: 0.35 μm 4-layer metal CMOS process • Core speed: 180–266 MHz • Bus speed: 33 MHz • Cache: • L1 cache size 16 KB write-back 4-way set associative unified I/D cache. • Or 12-Kbyte unified L1 Cache and 4K scratchpad for SMM & Graphics. • Integrated peripherals: • PCI controller • Display controller and 2D graphics accelerator • Hardware MPEG-1 supports fullscreen video playback • 16-bit audio subsystem Sound Blaster 16/Pro compatible • 64-bit SDRAM controller • V core: 2.9 V • V I/O: 3.3 V • Package: 320-pin Ceramic PGA; 352-ball BGA • System chipset: Cx5520 352-pin BGA National Semiconductor offered this processor under the name Geode GXM. ==Disadvantages==

The MediaGX platform does not provide support for external Level-2 cache memory, typical for motherboard designs of the period. All of the cache must be on the processor die. MediaGX processors can only run on motherboards specifically designed for the same model of the processor due to tight integration between the processor and its companion chipset. The graphics, sound, and PCI bus ran at the same speed as the processor clock also due to tight integration. This made the processor appear much slower than its actual rated speed. However, the graphics system is able to use the main system memory providing for significant cost savings on the basic systems and embedded controllers in the market for this platform. == See also ==