From: htoaster@yabbs
To: ea@yabbs
Subject: re: SGI REality Engine^2
Date: Thu Oct 28 19:12:48 1993
actually, it probably isn't as high of resolution, but it probably has 
other stuff.  For instance, there is probably a z-buffer, which would be 
16-bits, and holds information for computing a z axis in for doing hidden 
surface removal.  there is also probably an alpha channel, which would be 
used for saying how transparent an object is with respect to other things. 
that is another 8-bits.  Plus you get double buffering, so animation is 
better.  All that uses up the memory in a hurry (48 bits per pixel per 
buffer, or 96 bits per pixel total).

Also, for the most part larger monitors can't achieve a .28 dot pitch.  
Most 20" monitors are .31, and larger monitors (like 35 inches) are even 
worse.

htoaster