R128

R128 is a designation used in multiple, unrelated contexts, and its meaning depends on the field in which it is referenced. Two of the most common uses are in broadcasting loudness standards and in computer graphics hardware codename history.

In broadcasting and audio, EBU R128 refers to a loudness normalization standard developed by the European Broadcasting Union. Published in the early 2010s, it provides guidelines for measuring and adjusting program loudness to a consistent target across different programs and platforms. The standard uses loudness units relative to full scale (LUFS) and sets a recommended integrated loudness target (commonly around -23 LUFS) to ensure uniform perceived loudness. It also incorporates loudness range (LRA) measures and true-peak limits to control overall dynamics and prevent clipping. EBU R128 has been widely adopted by broadcasters, streaming services, and post-production workflows to improve consistency in listening levels.

In computer graphics hardware, R128 was the codename for ATI’s first Radeon graphics processor, introduced around 1999–2000 as part of the Radeon family. This chipset marked ATI’s transition from the Rage line to the Radeon line and laid the groundwork for later generations of Radeon GPUs. The R128-based cards provided hardware-accelerated 3D graphics capabilities for consumer graphics markets and contributed to the early development of modern rasterization and shading features that would evolve in subsequent GPU architectures.

Because R128 denotes distinct technologies in different domains, its interpretation depends on whether the discussion concerns audio/broadcast standards or graphics hardware.