Functions and type of Video Graphic Adapter (VGA)

This is an adapter that converts the processed images from the PC processor to the computer monitor. In early PC the adapter was added to the computer as an expansion card, but in today`s PC, the VGA adapter is integrated into the motherboard.

video graphic card vga

Functions of video graphic adapter (VGA)

The main function of the adapter is to convert the processed information from the PC processor to images that can be displayed on the connected monitor. It converts digital information into electronic signals that the monitor displays.

Video Graphic Card connectors

1. VGA

For the monitor to display images it needs to be connected to the system unit of the PC, and that is achieved by the use of a connector. It is used to connect to the analog monitor. A 15-pin connector is the main VGA connector used. The VGA adapter comes with the female port while the cable has the male pins for connection. Below is the cable side of the connector.

video graphic adapter cable male part

2. DV-I

This is another type of connector that is used to connect the monitor. It is the latest and it is only used on digital monitors only.

3. HDMI (High Definition Media Interface)

It is the latest type of connector that comes with the latest monitors and devices. It supports the latest video standard that has a high definition for image clarity.

How to connect a video graphic adapter cable to the card

Since the cable has 15 pins that can be inserted in the adapter female part what you need to do is align the two parts and push in. Don’t force the cable because you may break the pins. If it is not getting in check and align until the pin moves smoothly in.

Using the screw in the cable side tighten the cable to the adapter to make sure it doesn’t move or get loose as you continue using it.

VGA adapter types/interface

The adapters that are not integrated with the motherboard, have different ways that they can interface with the motherboard. On the most recent motherboard, there are three slots where a VGA card can be interfaced. They include:

  1. PCI: these are obsolete unless you have one of those old PC. It used to be divided into two sections, one section being longer than the other.pci interface
  2. PCI Express: these are the latest and they are the best. They look like the PCI but are a bit longer and the long and short sides are revised when you compare with the PCI. These will give you a computer with high video performance. Most motherboard with this slot has the name written on them (PCI EXPRESS) for identification.
  3. AGP: some PCs still uses these interface although again like the PCI they become absolute. They also have two sections like others but at the far end, they have a hook that secures it to the motherboard. They are faster than PCI but not like PCI Express.

For the best and latest VGA card get the PCI Express if your PC support it, if not then it means you are unlucky and most likely you are using an old PC. Maybe it’s time to upgrade.

4 factors to consider for video graphic adapter monitor connector

For those who may want to upgrade their VGA which is integrated into the motherboard, one can buy a VGA adapter for an upgrade. For basic computer use, the integrated VGA is good but for the game lover, one may need to upgrade to allow playing the latest video game which requires high resolution and other capabilities. The factors to consider include:

  • The interface

As discussed early the interface matter. Select the VGA depending on which type of interface your PC motherboard offer. If you are lucky enough and it has all then choose the PCI Express as we have seen it is the best performing.

  • The monitor available

The VGA alone cannot give you the best video display that you want. The monitor resolution will also matter. Even if you get a high-performing VGA adapter and then the monitor has a low resolution or a monitor met for black and white display cannot display color just because of the VGA. So best combined performance get a monitor that marches the VGA that you want to use.

  • Work intended

The job you intend to do with the VGA card will determine the type of adapter to go for. For game PCI Express is the best, for other use get AGP but PCI is a no and again you may not get it in the market anyway.

  • Manufacturer

If you have a favorite manufacturer then you can consider that also. When it comes to the manufacturers, check for one that offers a longer warranty time. We don’t mean it will get defects, but it is an electronics device, you may never know.

How to download and install VGA drivers for windows 10

For a VGA or any other hardware to function in a computer device-specific software called driver is installed on a computer. By default when the operating system is installed most drivers are installed. However, if you need an updated version of the driver or you add another hardware to your computer then you need to install drivers. We are going to discuss how to install drivers in Windows versions of the operating system.

  1. Using DriverPack

Drivers pack is a software package that has most of the commonly required hardware driver software. You can download it and then save it to either a CD or a flash disk that you can use for installation. The software scans the computer for missing drivers and updates them. You can also install a specific driver if you know the one missing. So you can use the Drivers pack to install VGA drivers.

  1. Update from Device manager

It is a component in windows computers that are found in the settings in the control panel. The interface allows the user to view all devices installed on that specific computer including the VGA driver.

Device manager windows 10 drivers update

To install or update the VGA driver right-click, then click update the driver. Follow the options that the computer will give to update the driver.

  1. Download from the VGA manufacture’s website.

A company like Intel offers free driver downloads from its support website. When downloading the driver ensure you know the type of the driver and the byte size type of the operating system that is installed on your computer. Below is an example of a graphic driver from the Intel support website

Intel VGA drivers download

To download click on the desired driver and it will be downloaded. Note that different VGA manufacturer websites and support may look different.

What is a VGA to HDMI converter?

High-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) is the latest connection for high-definition video. Most of the latest laptop doesn’t have a VGA adapter that you can connect to a device like a projector. To connect such a laptop you require a VGA to HDMI converter.

A converter is a gadget that on one end it has VGA while on the other HDMI. The converter is used to connect two devices that would not be compatible if there is no VGA HDMI converter.

HDMI adapters are mostly used when you require high-quality video and audio output. They are mostly used for gaming and multimedia production like studios.

Is HDMI a video adapter?

Yes. High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) can be used as a video adapter to connect the system unit and computer monitor or projectors. It is the latest adapter that most devices come installed with, both laptops, projectors, or desktop computers.

Which is better VGA or HDMI?

HDMI has better performance and is faster than VGA. Again HDMI is the latest technology that is incorporated into the latest computing devices.

How do I connect my VGA monitor to HDMI?

To connect from VGA to HDMI and vice-versa you will need a VGA to HDMI converter. The converter can be used to connect for example a laptop with VGA to a projector with HDMI

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