Relisys Multiscan Monitor - Model RE-5155
                         Copyright 1990 David Batterson

     Remember those "days of yore" when we thought 640x480 VGA monitors were
the ultimate VDT, and now they are considered entry-level monitors.
     As graphics software became more sophisticated, we discovered that our old
VGA monitors just didn't cut it anymore, especially when using DTP software.
Which brings up the subject of this review, the RE-5155 Multiscan monitor.
     Let's look at some of the many features of this high resolution monitor.
It has a .31 dot pitch, non-glare screen.  It supports up to 800x600
resolution, and adapts automatically to scanning frequencies from 15 to 35 KHz.
The RE-5155 operates in TTL or Analog modes.
     In Analog mode, the palette of colors depends on your graphics adapter and
software used. You get up to 256 colors displayed at one time (out of 256K
total).  In TTL mode, you may choose seven colors for text-only operation.
     As you upgrade to newer software or graphics adapters, this monitor will
keep pace.  The RE-5155 supports MDA, CGA, EGA, PGA, VGA and MCGA.
     It measures 14.6" high x 14.8" wide x 15.3" deep.  Power consumption is
105 watts maximum.
     One thing about all computer monitors is misleading--the diagonal size.
The typical 14" monitor (like the RE-5155) really has only about 13" of actual
screen available.  I think they should actually be labelled 13" monitors.
     Unlike some monitors I've evaluated, the RE-5155's tilt adjustment works
smoothly enough.  [One monitor I looked at required a sumo wrestler to adjust
the tilt.]  The RE-5155 will tilt 25 degrees (5 degrees up, 20 degrees down),
and swivel a full 180 degrees.
     There are more indicator lights and controls in front than on a typical
VGA monitor.  That's because there are many more options available.
     Below the Power indicator is the Mode indicator.  The Mode light indicates
that the Scan Mode Switch is in the Auto position, and the monitor is in Auto
Scan Mode.  The light will be one of three colors:  red for EGA, green for CGA
and yellow for PGA/VGA.
     Below that light is the TTL indicator.  If lit, it means the TTL/Analog
switch is in the TTL position.  When off, you know that the TTL/Analog is in
the Analog position.
     Below the TTL indicator, the Manual indicator lights up when you are
selecting text color manually.  The power switch is located conveniently
underneath the monitor, to the right, so no need to reach around in back like
with some monitors.
     There are back and side panel controls for the RE-5155.  The back panel
has the TTL/Analog switch, the Scan Mode switch (to select Auto or Manual), and
the Color select switches.  The Color DIP switches (1-3) let you select your
choice of seven text colors, while in TTL Mode.  DIP switches 4-5 are used for
non-IBM compatible color graphics applications which use a TTL video signal.
     The side panel has many choices too.  The Text On/Off switch is for TTL
Mode.  The Multi - PS/2 switch is for selecting IBM graphics mode or PS/2
Analog Mode.  Finally, the side panel has Brightness, Contrast, Horizontal
Position, Vertical Position, Vertical Hold and Vertical Size controls.
     You will most likely just be using the Auto setting and Analog Mode.  But
the options are there if and when you need them.  The RE-5155's cable will work
with either a PS/2 or VGA card with standard 15-pin connector.
     The RE-5155 features superb graphics and text display, and should serve
your needs quite well, until the next generation of flat color monitors starts
hitting the marketplace (I can't wait for those).
     For more information and current retail price, contact Relisys, 320 S.
Milpitas Blvd., Milpitas, CA 95035; 408-945-9000, FAX: 408-945-0587.
                                       #
    David Batterson reviews various PC software and hardware.  Contact him via
MCI Mail: DBATTERSON.