HDMI Outputs on Graphics Cards

I’ve lately been considering purchasing a new graphics card. When looking at the selections, I noticed that almost all of the cards on the market today still feature an S-Video output. Why?

My current graphics card has HDMI out (but it’s an 8400GS). In a couple months I plan on upgrading to an 8800GTX, but I’ll be losing the HDMI out. Sure, I could grab an HDMI to DVI adapter, but that would take up one of my DVI outputs - eliminating the opportunity for dual monitors. And I’m not about to go the S-Vid to Component way. I tried it one day, and the picture looked absolutely terrible.

HDMI is THE standard when it comes to high-definition media transmission, so what is the point of still integrating S-Video in a modern graphics card? I don’t think that anybody will be connecting their computer to an SDTV tube set, or be satisfied with a substandard picture on an HDTV. Why not replace S-Vid with HDMI? Even on my 8400GS, the HDMI replaces a DVI output, not S-Vid.

If this change does not happen anytime soon, another option for people looking for dual monitors AND a good HDTV connection on the same card could consider the Tritton SEE-2 Xtreme  www.trittontechnologies.com). For $120, this device functions as a USB to DVI adapter. So you could have a TV and one Monitor on the card, and a second monitor running through the SEE-2.

Maybe I’m missing something. I realize cost can be a factor in including higher quality outputs, and HDMI royalty fees are also involved. But it’s 2008. Come on, guys. S-Video?

If you have any questions, ideas, or if you just feel like sending me an email, shoot me a line at  mattstech at gmail.com. I’m also hosting videos on YouTube  youtube.com), and my blog is right here at lockergnome.com I’d love to hear your thoughts.