How
to identify your video card connectors
There are four basic types of video card connectors
used on today's computers.
We will list each and discuses their pro's and con's.
1. VGA 15 Pin Din
Connector 
This connector is the standard for 99% of all
video cards whether it's a sand alone video card
or built into the motherboard. The 15 Pin VGA
is compatible with most any CRT or LCD monitor,
it can also connect to some larger TV's and portable
projectors. On most computers this connector is
blue and easy to find. The connector supports
a wide range of video resolutions.
PRO's: *Works with most kinds of monitors
*Easy durable hookup
CON's: *Some limitation
when you use HD or High contrast Monitors
2. DVI (Digital Video
Interface)
This connector is becoming the new standard for
computers. Its multi-pin configure allows all
video formats and resolutions to be used with
ease. Most new stand alone video cards will have
one DVI and one 15pin VGA connector or two DVI
connectors for a dual screen option.
PRO's: * Works with
most all LCD's and HD TV's and projectors.
* Works great with high contrast monitors and
ultra high resolutions
* Ultra durable connector.
* DVI to VGA connector as easy to get and easy
to use.
*A lot of newer motherboard that have onboard-built
in video now include a DVI connector along with
a standard 15pin VGA.
CON's * Most computers over 3 years old don't
have a DVI connector.
* Most laptops will not support DVI.
* Not all DVI connectors are the same, most all
computer DVI connector can be interchangeable,
but, some gaming system DVI connectors and other
TV DVR DVI connectors are not interchangeable,
check with the manufacture of these devices for
compatibility issues.
3. HDMI (HIGH Definition Multimedia Interface)
HDMI is the new kid on the block; it's mostly
used in Plasma, LCD and DLP TV's. This connector
however is starting to show up on laptops and
computers motherboards. Its unique ability to
have HD video and sound in one simple plug will
insure its place as the new replacement for video
only connectors.
PRO's * One plug
and cable for HD video and sound
CON's * Connectors are not as durable and DVI
and VGA.
* Cables are very expensive costing up to $50
for a 10' cable.
* Not widely used in the computer market, yet!
* Not available on older computers, TV's and other
entertainment devices.
4. S-VIDEO
S-Video is an older video option found on most
laptops, projectors and stand alone video cards
made in the last 5-7 years. This connector is
video only and can support up to 600 x 800 dpi
resolution. This in not very high resolution by
today standards but is better than most standard
TV's used to be. S-Video was also one of the first
digital video formats. This format will allow
you to output your computer to older TV's and
video projectors.
PRO's *Simple to use and found on lots of TV's,
VCR's and DVD units.
CON's * Low resolution by today's standards.
* Doesn't do high contrast very well
* No audio option
* Old technology and just not used any more.
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