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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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