Sapphire is now adding two new models to its range of high end graphics cards. The SAPPHIRE HD 4890 series is based on a new GPU core from the ATI division of AMD. This features the same architecture as the HD 4870 series, with 800 stream processor units, 256-bit GDDR5 memory interface and integral hardware video decoder.

The SAPPHIRE HD 4890 now delivers a significantly higher level of performance than the previous generation. Two models are available at launch ? the standard model has clock speeds of 850MHz (core) and 975MHz (memory). The SAPPHIRE HD 4890 OC Edition offers a higher specification for the enthusiast with enhanced clock speeds of 901MHz (core) and 1000MHz memory.

Both models use the PCI-Express Gen2 interface, and feature dual connectors for CrossFireX cables, allowing two or more cards to be used together on a CrossFireX compatible mainboard.

SAPPHIRE will be announcing additional models in its HD 4890 series in the coming weeks.

All SAPPHIRE graphics cards in the HD 4800 series incorporate the latest ATI Avivo HD Technology for enhanced Video display and feature a new generation built in hardware UVD (Unified Video decoder) considerably reducing CPU load and delivering smooth decoding of Blu-ray and HD DVD content for both VC-1 and H.264 codecs, as well as Mpeg files. In addition to two, dual-link DVI outputs, and TV-Out, a dedicated HDMI adaptor delivers both audio and video output on a single cable for direct connection to an HDMI ready display.

Like the previous generation, these cards support DirectX10.1 for enhanced rendering performance and lighting effects.