Definition of video graphics array

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Photonics Dictionary

video graphics array: The video graphics array (VGA) is a display resolution standard introduced by IBM in 1987 for displaying graphics on computer monitors. It quickly became the de facto standard for personal computers and was widely adopted across the industry. VGA provided a significant improvement in graphics quality and resolution compared to previous standards and played a crucial role in the development of graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for computing.

Key characteristics of VGA include:

Resolution: The standard VGA resolution is 640 pixels horizontally by 480 pixels vertically, resulting in a total of 307,200 pixels. This resolution provided a higher level of detail and clarity compared to earlier standards, allowing for sharper images and smoother graphics.

Color depth: VGA supports a color depth of 8 bits per pixel, allowing for a palette of up to 256 different colors. This enabled richer and more vibrant graphics compared to monochrome or limited-color displays.

Analog signal: VGA originally transmitted video signals in analog form, using separate red, green, and blue (RGB) color channels along with horizontal and vertical synchronization signals. This analog signal was carried through a 15-pin VGA connector.

Refresh rate: VGA typically operated at a refresh rate of 60 Hz, providing flicker-free display output.

Compatibility: VGA quickly became the standard interface for computer monitors and graphics adapters, leading to widespread compatibility across different hardware platforms and operating systems.

Legacy support: Despite being an older standard, VGA remains relevant in many applications, particularly for legacy systems, industrial equipment, and embedded devices. It is also commonly used for connecting projectors and external displays to modern computers and laptops, often through VGA-to-HDMI or VGA-to-DVI adapters.

While VGA has been largely superseded by higher-resolution standards such as Extended Graphics Array (XGA), High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), and DisplayPort, its legacy continues to influence modern display technologies. VGA played a significant role in the evolution of computer graphics and remains an important milestone in the history of com

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