[Open-graphics] YAPI (Yet Another Product Idea)

[James Richard Tyrer]

Timothy Normand Miller wrote:
> On 2/7/07, Dieter <netbsd at sopwith.solgatos.com> wrote:
>> Am I correct in thinking that a SATA controller would be easier and 
>> faster to
>> design than a graphics/video controller, and that it would cost 
>> significantly
>> less to get an ASIC fabbed?
> 
> Since the design of the controller would be simple, and there are
> FPGAs that have high-speed serial I/O drivers, we could probably
> produce a fully-functional controller at a reasonable cost without
> even having to go to ASIC.  The last 3ware controller I looked at had
> a few Xilinx FPGAs on it.
> 
> Speaking of 3Ware, since they have good Free Software drivers, I think
> that might be a good solution.
> 
> That isn't to say that the idea isn't interesting, but I have two
> problems with it:  (1) we need someone to take charge of that but not
> detract from the path we're already on, and (2) we shouldn't
> unnecessarily compete with other vendors like 3ware who do a good job
> of supporting Free Software, which we want to encourage.
> 
Yes, we shouldn't directly compete.  I will take a look at their products.

-- 
JRT