Posted a response to the ZD article... doubt if it will see the light of day, but what the heck... i'm in a typing mood.
zdnet.com
3dfx Voodoo3 3500: a study in the video market
As stated in Mr. Lemos's article, 3dfx has entered the arena of multimedia functionality. But contrary to the authors suggestion, this “niche” market is not a misplaced attempt at creating demand out of thin air. This move by 3dfx is simply reflective of the combined 3dfx/STB to adapt and keep a grasp on the current state of the video market.
The previous specifications for the V3 3500 product included similar performance yet included digital flat panel support. Products with similar price points and performance to the V3 3500 have also pulled their digital flat panel support. So here you have a situation where similarly performing products with similar prices are competing for market penetration. Now, 3dfx adds a cutting egde tv tuner solution, S-video i/o allowing for high quality motion capture and output, internal Digital VCR capability, DVD playback, and FM radio support. Mind you, same price.
Are all these hi-tech gadgets merely fluff? To answer, look at the success of ATI's All-in-wonder & All-in-wonder pro line of video products. For some time now, ATI has provided the only single card solution for 2d/3d graphics with integrated tv-tuner support. The success of this card in both the retail channel and OEM markets is solid and verifiable, and in no way can be seen as an attempt to force-feed the consumer market a product that has no demand. With the increasing presence of writable cd-rom, 30 gigabyte tape backups under $300, and hard drive capacity exceeding 18 gigabytes, manipulation and viewing of recorded material on a computer is a definate reality. Compounded with the overwhelming success of the Voodoo3 release, this Voodoo3 3500TV which sports faster performance and the most comprehensive feature set to date, will set a new benchmark for performance and features never before seen on a consumer level card within this price range.
Way to go 3dfx.
Jeff P. |
