Microsoft? DirectX? is a group of technologies designed by Microsoft to make Microsoft? Windows?-based computers an ideal platform for running and displaying applications like games that are rich in real-time full-color 3-D graphics, video, interactive music, and surround sound. Built directly into the Windows family of operating systems, DirectX is an integral part of Microsoft Windows 98, Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition (Me), and Microsoft Windows 2000, as well as Microsoft Internet Explorer. If required, DirectX components will also be automatically updated in the operating system by the latest games and multimedia applications as part of their installation. With DirectX 8.0, Microsoft offers many new features and feature improvements for multimedia application developers:**Consolidated interfaces for DirectDraw? and Direct3D? simplify application development and improve performance.**Improved graphics authoring tool integration eases development of optimal 3-D characters and environments.**Vertex shaders and pixel shaders improve image realism.**Consolidated DirectSound? and DirectMusic? interfaces simplify application development.**DLS2 audio synthesis support improves instrument realism.**DirectInput? device mapping provides simplified device support.**DirectPlay? performance and scalability for massively multiplayer games has been improved.**DirectPlay IP voice communication support is provided.**DirectShow? Editing Services APIs provide real-time composting and editing of audio/video timelines.DirectShow supports reading and writing Windows Media? Audio and Video (WMA and WMV).**Microsoft TV Technologies support digital television.If you had an earlier version of DirectX installed on your system, you will see little difference in available space on your hard drive following the installation. DirectX 8.0 will overwrite any earlier versions. NOTICE: After installation, the DirectX 8.0 run time cannot be uninstalled. DirectX is a system component. It cannot be uninstalled without reinstalling your operating system. Non-English versions are available at website.