Last updated on January 23rd, 2024 at 02:33 am
VGA stands for Video Graphics Array.
VGA is an analog video connection popularly used in computers. It connects the video card of a computer to a monitor or a projector to display the video signals processed by the computer.
VGA : The Mother of Video Connectors
At one point in time, VGA used to be the primary mode of connection between a computer CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a display monitor (usually of the CRT type).
These days computers come equipped with HD video connections like HDMI, DVI and DisplayPort and even USB-C.
VGA, still holds its ground, however. A VGA connection is still available in most computers, except for some high-end models.
In laptop computers, it features as mini-VGA connection.
VGA History
The VGA connection standard originally saw development in 1987 under IBM. Back then it allowed for a resolution of only 640×480 pixels.
Years on, resolutions improved to 800×600 and 1024×768.
VGA : Basic Facts
VGA carries the following analog video signals – RGBHV (Red, Green, Blue, Horizontal Sync, Vertical Sync) together with VESA Display Data Channel (VESA DDC) data.
A VGA connector consists of 3 rows of 5 pins each. That makes it 15 points altogether.
Each pin has a function. For example the first three are used to carry RGB (Red, Green, Blue) video.
VGA connectors and ports can easily be indentified by their blue colour.
Does VGA Support 1080p?
Yes, VGA does support 1080p. Provided your computer video card allows for 1920 x1080 resolution and the display monitor supports 1080p.
Beyond 1080p the video quality starts dropping, However, with a better quality cable you can push VGA to a resolution of 2048 x 1536, in some instances at a distance of up to 75 feet.
Ideally, choose a cable that comes with foil and braid shielding. This helps to block any signal interferencce or noise.
Also gold-plated connectors help. They usually provide firmer contacts to optimize conductivity.
So, it all depends on the resolution your video card and your computer monitor/HDTV/projector supports.
VGA to HDMI Converter
If you so happened to have a computer with a VGA output and have bought a monitor with an HDMI input, you can still make the pair work by using an VGA to HDMI converter.
Most VGA to HDMI converters support an output resolution of up to 1080p.
The better one comes with audio support as well. As you may well know, VGA supports only video transmission and not audio.
The VGA to HDMI converter shown in the picture above comes with a 3.5mm audio jack attached to the VGA connector to be plugged into your computer.
The converter itself is powered by an USB connection, plugged into your computer.
