[metropole]

Hello,


I want to upgrade my current VGA card with a DVI card for a PC which is mainly used for entertainment purposes (DVD, MP3, TV).

I needs to be a dual or possibly a triple out card (but not required).

The main display is a DVI LCD. I would like to use it as the main console.

If I play a DVD I expect to see the video only in a small window, giving me direct access to other controls.

The second DVI out is for the projector itself. On that out I expect always a full screen video or PC screen (for gaming).

It would be nice but not required to have a 3rd analog composite out for an older TV in an other room (would expect full screen video on that).


How good are the Matrox Parhelia's?

What other cards should I consider?


Metropole

 

[idkruler]

I love my Matrox Parhelia and wouldn't even consider anything else for my uses!!!


For a better resource in regards to the parhelia, check out the forums at www.matroxusers.com

 

[metropole]

Does the Parhelia actually have a mpeg chip on it?

How does it work together with a TV tuner such as the Hauppauge 250/450?

ATI writes in the specs that they support all HDTV formats. What does that actually mean for a graphic card if I output VGA or DVI? It seems that the resolution is higher than HDTV.

 

[jammarjim]

I have the ATI Radeon 9000 pro. It has DVI & VGA out and use it to display HDTV. Price & features are one of best deals around.

 

[idkruler]

Parhelia does support DVD hardware acceleration, but not to the extent of ATI.


As for compatability the the Huappage cards, you may want to check out the offical Matrox support forums here: http://www.matrox.com/mga/support/forum/agree.cfm

 

[metropole]

Matrox talks about 10-bit decoding for DVD.

They are claiming they are the only ones. Is this true?

Does this matter for the DVI ouput?


Still not sure if I understand how a video card is used with a SW DVD player. Wouldn't the software do all the decoding and just make limited use of the graphic card?

 

[LeonidasVouros]

Metropole for HTPC purposes I think you should use the ATI 8500 or greater family either the All in wonder option (with TV but only 2 monitor support DVI/VGA AND S video output but not DVI+VGA) or the simle cards with no onboard TV but three monitor support. You should be able to find much help regarding Ati here in the forum which I don't think that happens with MATROX. You should also check the forum for anyone having already connected the HS10 with a matrox card to make sure that it actually works.... I have a HS10 connected via DVI to a ATI AIW 8500 and it works fine Check for help the thread http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showt...hreadid=247144