Diamond Multimedia is headquartered in Chatsworth, Calif., and has been supplying computer components for the past two decades. While you might remember them for Radeon 9600XT graphics cards, it has been some time since Diamond has produced cards for the high-performance segment. With the production of the Radeon X1900 series, the company has decided to re-enter the space with the Diamond Viper Radeon X1900XTX.

The Viper is built to the ATI Radeon X1900XTX specification. The processor operates at 650 MHz, and the GDDR3 memory runs at 775 MHz (1.55 GHz DRR). The cooler and all other components are identical to the ATI reference design.

Inside, Diamond includes all of the cables needed to get the owner started. Included are a power adapter cable, a composite video extension cable, an S-video extension cable, two DVI-A to D-Sub adapters, S-video and high definition (Y, Pb, Pr) outputs for video playback. Also included is a cable that combines S-video and composite video in and out (VIVO).

Diamond backs up its video cards with a limited one-year warranty that covers parts and labor. The company can be contacted for support via its Website's support section and over the phone. Diamond includes two CDs that contain drivers and bonus material. The Bonus CD contains Windows updates, tools and older benchmarking software including 3DMark03 and Final Reality. The disc also has DVD playback software including codecs.

Diamond Multimedia has a unique feature that most card makers do not have: With the purchase of select video cards online from the company store it is possible to trade-in a PC video card from any manufacturer or brand for a savings of up to 30%. This works as a nice rebate system for those looking to save as many pennies as possible.

Viking InterWorks Radeon X1900XTX

Viking Components is known for its system memory solutions and flash devices. Ironically, the last time we saw a high-end card from Viking was back in the Radeon 9600 days. While the firm also has built midrange and entry level cards, the Radeon X1900XTX is the company's first attempt at the high-end space for a long time.

The Viking Radeon graphics card is also built to the ATI Radeon X1900XTX specification. The processor operates at 650 MHz and the GDDR3 memory is at 775 MHz (1.55 GHz DRR). All other components on the card are identical to the ATI reference design.

Included inside the retail package is a power adapter cable, composite video extension cable, S-video extension cable, a single DVI-A to D-Sub adapters, S-video and high definition (Y, Pb, Pr) outputs for video playback, as well as the cable that combines S-video and composite video in and out (VIVO).Viking offers a two-year warranty from the date of purchase for its Radeon video cards products. The company can be contacted for support via its Website's support section and on the phone to either its toll free number.

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