Matrox Orion can capture standard analog composite (CVBS) and Y/C in NTSC/PAL formats, and composite RS-170/CCIR video formats. It also includes discrete analog-to-digital converters for capturing component RGB in NTSC/PAL video formats. A separate trigger input is also provided for synchronizing video capture to external events.

Matrox Orion features an award-winning graphics controller from Matrox Graphics Inc., a leader in PC graphics technology. The MGA G400 boasts an impressive feature set including two independent CRT controllers. On Matrox Orion, the primary CRT controller handles the main (VGA) display output, while the second CRT controller handles secondary (TV) display output. As well, the MGA G400 provides Matrox Orion with non-destructive graphics overlay of live video without host CPU intervention, as well as arbitrary video scaling.

Matrox Orion supports a second display output that is independent of the primary display resolution. For example, the main display can run at 1024 x 768 showing the user-interface and video window, while the secondary display runs at NTSC/PAL resolutions showing contents of the video window in full screen. This feature is essential for any application that requires a high-resolution display while simultaneously recording video using a VCR. As well, the secondary video output can be synchronized to the video input to avoid tearing artifacts.

Established in 1976 and headquartered in Dorval, Quebec, Canada, Matrox Imaging is a leading designer and manufacturer of PC-based hardware and software for machine vision, image analysis and medical imaging. Products include standard frame grabbers, real-time vision processors, integrated imaging platforms and device-independent development software. Specifically designed to decrease development time and costs, Matrox Imaging technology is used by OEMs and integrators in factory automation, process control, electronic and pharmaceutical packaging, semiconductor inspection, robotics, radiology and microscopy.