VGA Monitors

Understanding VGA displays

VGA monitors were introduced in 1987 by IBM computers. The first models had a screen resolution of 640x480. Later, the SVGA monitor was created with 800x600 pixel resolution. VGA stands for video graphics array and was the leading standard for PC monitors until digital technology came along. VGA technology is based on analog transmissions where the electrical signals are sent continuously in a wave format; digital signals are a series of 1s and 0s that act directly on the monitor’s pixels.

The VGA monitor cable is used with a graphics card located in the computer to send signals to the monitor, typically a CRT monitor. The cable has separate pins for each of the three colors, as well as for vertical and horizontal sync. Since VGA cables cannot support digital monitors, the DVI cable was created.

PC VGA Monitors

IBM was the leading manufacturer of computer monitors and it set the standards for screen resolutions. Screen resolution is typically based on a ratio of 4:3 or, for widescreen, of 16:9. A resolution of 800x600 means that there are 800x600 pixels in the screen. Even though digital has quickly become the standard, analog is still strong and will continue to be for a few more years. The more mainstream VGA LCD monitors will have both a VGA and a DVI inputs. These are typically what are known as VGA DVI monitors. When shopping for a VGA monitor, make sure that the input connectors include both VGA and DVI; that way when you upgrade the computer’s graphic card, the monitor will not be outdated.

VGA monitors need to have the digital signal transformed into analog in order to be used. High screen resolutions are just as available as with digital. Ultra-thin VGA monitors using technology use very little energy compared to CRT monitors, fit better on a desktop work surface and have great color and image resolution. Shopping for a VGA LCD monitor should include looking at screen resolution, digital and analog inputs, a wide viewing angle and no “dead” pixels. There should also be image sizing and positioning capabilities to a get the absolute best image for viewing. Some graphics cards support wireless VGA outputs. Understanding how the VGA monitor works will make the purchasing a wireless monitor a little easier.