Abstract: Video data for two or more video streams are processed by a single background command list containing one or more background commands and a single foreground command list containing one or more foreground commands, where the foreground command list is implemented only during a vertical blanking interval of the display raster of a monitor. The processed video data are then displayed during the raster period. In a preferred embodiment, if the implementation of a background command has not completed by the start of a vertical blanking interval, the background command is interrupted, the state of the background command implementation is saved, the foreground command list is implemented, and then the interrupted background command is resumed. The background commands are preferably those that do not directly affect the display bitmaps, while the foreground commands are those that do directly affect the display bitmaps.

Abstract: An insurance estimation, service manual or other system stores and displays documents and associated graphics. The system stores a multiplicity of the graphic images in compressed, digital form. A first group of the graphic images are associated with a first one of the documents. By selecting the first document, the system automatically decompresses the first plurality of graphic images. The system then displays at least a portion of the selected first document on a display screen along with a first one of the decompressed graphic images. Subsequently, upon touch of a touch screen, the system displays a second one of the decompressed documents. Because the second graphic image was decompressed when the document was selected, there was virtually no delay in displaying the second graphic image. Either graphic image can be enlarged and centered about or near a point of touch over the image.