# SST-1

> graphics chipset model introduced by 3Dfx in 1995

**Wikidata**: [Q122762006](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q122762006)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/sst-1

## Summary
SST-1, also known as the Voodoo Graphics engine, is a graphics chipset model introduced by 3dfx Interactive on November 6, 1995. It serves as a graphics processing unit (GPU) manufactured by TSMC, operating at a clock frequency of 50 MHz.

## Key Facts
- **Formal Name:** SST-1 (also known as SST1, SST-1 Graphics Engine, or Voodoo Graphics).
- **Introduction Date:** November 6, 1995.
- **Designer:** 3dfx Interactive.
- **Manufacturer:** TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company).
- **Classification:** Instance of a graphics processing unit model; subclass of a chipset.
- **Clock Speed:** 50 MHz.
- **Function:** Manages data flow between the processor, memory, and peripherals as an integrated circuit chipset.
- **Documentation:** Technical details are described in the "Voodoo Graphics" manual hosted at `o3one.org`.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the SST-1?
A: The SST-1 is a graphics chipset model, also known as the Voodoo Graphics engine. It was designed by 3dfx Interactive and introduced in 1995.

### Q: Who manufactured the SST-1?
A: While the SST-1 was designed by 3dfx Interactive, the physical manufacturing of the chipset was handled by TSMC.

### Q: What is the clock frequency of the SST-1?
A: The SST-1 operates at a clock frequency of 50 megahertz (MHz).

## Why It Matters
The SST-1 represents a specific hardware implementation in the mid-1990s computer graphics market. As a chipset, its primary role is to act as a set of electronic components within an integrated circuit, tasked with managing the flow of data between the processor, memory, and peripherals. Its introduction in 1995 marked a specific point in the evolution of dedicated graphics processing units.

The device is significant for its association with 3dfx Interactive, a notable entity in the history of graphics hardware. The collaboration between 3dfx (design) and TSMC (manufacturing) exemplifies the fabless semiconductor business model prevalent in the industry. The SST-1, identified by the alias "Voodoo Graphics," serves as a historical reference point for the technical specifications of that era, specifically the standardization of 50 MHz clock speeds in early consumer 3D accelerators.

## Notable For
- Being the foundational "Voodoo Graphics" product line under the internal codename SST-1.
- Its specific clock frequency of 50 MHz, as recorded in technical references.
- The distinction between its designer (3dfx Interactive) and its manufacturer (TSMC).
- Its classification as a "chipset" that manages data flow between key computing components.

## Body
### Identity and Nomenclature
The entity SST-1 is a graphics chipset model that falls under the broader class of graphics processing units. It carries several aliases, including "Voodoo Graphics," "SST1," and the "SST-1 Graphics Engine." It is distinct from general processors as it is a chipset—a set of electronic components in an integrated circuit specifically designed to manage data flow.

### Production and Release
The SST-1 was designed by 3dfx Interactive. The manufacturing process was outsourced to TSMC. The product was officially published or released on November 6, 1995. This release is documented by press archives from 3dfx.

### Technical Specifications
According to technical documentation, specifically the Voodoo Graphics manual, the SST-1 features a clock frequency of 50 MHz. This frequency dictates the operational speed of the chipset's data processing capabilities.

### Reference Materials
Technical data regarding the SST-1 is preserved through various external links and manuals. Key resources include the original product description hosted at `3dfx.com` (and archived via the Wayback Machine) and detailed technical breakdowns available at `o3one.org` and `fabiensanglard.net`.

## References

1. [Source](https://web.archive.org/web/19970213080348/http://www.3dfx.com/press/951106a.html)
2. [Source](http://www.o3one.org/hwdocs/video/voodoo_graphics.pdf)