Abstract: Methods, systems and programs for partitioning an RGB gamma ramp frame buffer of a workstation into groupings of bit planes to isolate for independent generation the images of multiple objects displayed on a common video screen. According to a preferred practice, groups of bit planes are masked while others are written with scaled and off-set data suitable to represent shaded three-dimensional images. A matching partition of the color palettes in the digital to analog converters ensures consistency in the translation from digital frame buffer data to analog red-green-blue (RGB) color signals. The images as stored in the frame buffer can be arranged in any order of overlay priority. Retention of static image data in a partition reduces the graphics processor load by eliminating the need for regenerating the static component of a complex animation, thereby faciliting real-time motion or user interaction. Losses in color bandwidth resolution are substantially offset through the use of dithering techniques.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for supporting multiple command sets in a single rendering adapter. A device driver operating in tandem with a rendering adapter and its associated microcode interprets disparate command sets without separate control/interpretation sections being maintained in the rendering adapter. Rendering adapter microcode in the adapter for supporting a first command set is extending to support commands in a second command set not capable of being mapped in the first command set. The device driver receives the disparate data stream command sets generated by application programs and destined for the rendering adapter. If a first command set command is received by the device driver, it is passed on to the rendering adapter substantially unmodified. If a second command set command is received by the device driver, an attempt is made to map the command into a first command set command, and then transfer this mapped command to the rendering adapter.