Description
Solbourne SGA20 Video Card Sun SparcStation SPARC Workstation Graphics 1991
The Solbourne SGA20 is an SBus graphics card designed for Sun SparcStation SPARC workstations, manufactured by Solbourne Computer in 1991. It provides video output for SPARC-based desktop workstations using the SBus card interface standard common to Sun equipment of that era. The board features a Brooktree (Bt) RAMDAC — visible and legible in the photos — which handles digital-to-analog conversion for monitor output.
Specifications & What's Included
- Model: SGA20 (Solbourne Computer SGA20)
- Manufacturer: Solbourne Computer, © 1991 (silkscreen on PCB edge)
- Bus Interface: SBus (Sun workstation card format)
- Main chipset: Brooktree Bt RAMDAC (Bt series — markings visible on chip in photos)
- Additional ICs: Multiple large QFP logic/controller chips visible on board (markings partially legible)
- Video Output Connector: High-density 13W3-style connector on bracket (front panel)
- PCB: Green multi-layer board with oscillator crystal and multiple support ICs
- Card only — no cables, documentation, or accessories included
Applications
The SGA20 was designed for use in Solbourne Computer's SPARC-compatible workstations, which were built around Sun's SBus architecture and ran SunOS. Solbourne was a notable Sun clone manufacturer in the late 1980s and early 1990s, producing SPARC-based systems that were largely compatible with Sun's own SparcStation hardware and software ecosystem. SBus graphics cards like this one provided the video output interface for connecting monitors to these workstations, supporting the graphical desktop environments (including OpenWindows and X11) that were standard in SPARC workstation environments of the era. Today, cards like this are sought by collectors and maintainers of vintage SPARC and Solbourne systems. The 13W3 video connector was the standard for Sun and compatible workstation monitors of this generation.
This Solbourne SGA20 video card for Sun SparcStation SPARC workstations has been pulled from a working environment where it was previously in use. The board shows normal wear consistent with prior service use — light surface oxidation on the bracket and minor scuffing on the PCB edges are visible in the photos, but there is no visible cracking, broken components, or damaged connectors. The Bt RAMDAC and main ICs appear intact and undamaged. This card has not been powered up or tested at our facility. Please view our photo set and contact us if you have any questions.
Warranty Information
Additional Information
Brand: |
Solbourne |
Model: |
SGA20 |
MPN: |
SGA20 |
Type: |
Graphics / Video Card |
SKU: |
28196 |
Compatible With: |
Sun SparcStation SPARC Workstation |
Bus Interface: |
SBus |
Chipset: |
Brooktree Bt RAMDAC (Bt459/Bt460 series) |
Connector Type: |
13W3 / High-Density DB-style video output |
Country/Region of Manufacture: |
United States |
Manufacture Date: |
1991 |
Form Factor: |
SBus Card / Module |
Seller Notes: |
Card only — no cables or accessories included. |
Condition Notes: |
This Solbourne SGA20 SPARC graphics card was pulled from a working environment. Shows normal light wear; no broken components or damaged connectors visible. Not powered up or tested at our facility. Card only — no cables included. |
California Prop 65 Warning: |
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, and DEHP (a phthalate), which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Go to P65Warnings.ca.gov |