ATI Technologies may be gearing up for the launch of its new-generation products code-named R520, RV530 and RV515, according to a report from AnandTech web-site. All the chips are set to be shipped commercially in early-September – late-October timeframe, it is claimed.

The highly-anticipated code-named R520 visual processing unit (VPU) that targets high-end market is reported to be launched in at least four versions, including R520 XL, R520 PRO, R520 XT and R520 XT CrossFire Edition. The R520 XL is expected to be launched in early September, 2005, whereas the XT and XT CrossFire parts are projected to follow in early- and mid-October respectively.

The new mainstream parts – RV530 XT and RV530 PRO – as well as value graphics processors – RV515 PRO and RV515 LE – are currently targeted to launch in late October and late September respectively, according to the web-site.

ATI code-named R5-series of VPUs is projected to support Shader Model 3.0 and other innovations, which requires a totally new graphics architecture from ATI. While general specifications of ATI’s R520 are unclear at this time, AnandTech believes that the RV530 will feature 12 pixel pipelines (at up to 600MHz clock-speed), whereas the RV515 will have 4 pixel pipelines (at up to 450MHz clock-speed).

Brand-name under which the R5-series of VPUs will be commercially sold is still unclear.

ATI Technologies did not comment on the news-story.