VGA Connector

VGA connectors are sub miniature D type graphic connectors which are primarily used for connecting CPUs to monitors. The shape of the metal shield of these connectors resembles a “D”, hence the name “D” type connectors.

Since their invention in the year 1987, these graphic connectors have come a long way. From interfacing desktop computers to light weight tablet computers, VGA connectors serve as one of the most inexpensive video interfaces for smart computing devices. It is quite interesting to note that even though these connectors were developed by IBM PC, it was their counter rivals Apple Inc. who preferred these connectors for iPad. An interesting history with a mass applicative scenario, VGA connectors get demystified in this Insight.

                                                                                Image 01: Pin-outs

Pin Outs: A 15 pin VGA connector is seen in Image 01 above. The pins, in three rows of five as shown in the image, are placed in a plastic molding which is surrounded by a metal casing.

The pin-outs are:

                                                              Image 02: Output Pins

Output Pins: Corresponding to the 15 pins that interface with the device are the pins on the opposite side that are soldered to wire.

                                                           Image 03: Plastic Moldings

Plastic MoIdings: In Image 03, the metal casing is opened to show the placement of pins in the plastic molding.
                                                                      Image 04: VGA Connector Pins

VGA Connector Pins: Pins of the connector are not sturdy enough and get bent on application of slightest force. This is why they are sheathed by a protective metal casing. Once the casing is removed, the pins are plucked out from the plastic moldings.

                                                                       Image 05: Pin Structure
Pin Structure: Image 05 provides a clear picture of the structure of the pin. The e

Pin	Name	Type	Description
1	RED	Output	Red Video (75 ohm, 0.7 V p-p)
2	GREEN	Output	Green Video (75 ohm, 0.7 V p-p)
3	BLUE	Output	Blue Video (75 ohm, 0.7 V p-p)
4	ID2	Input	Monitor ID Bit 2
5	GND	-	Ground
6	RGND	-	Red Ground
7	GGND	-	Green Ground
8	BGND	-	Blue Ground
9	KEY	-	Key (No pin)
10	SGND	-	Sync Ground
11	ID0	Input	Monitor ID Bit 0 GND=Color; NC=Mono
12	ID1 or SDA	Input	Monitor ID Bit 1 NC=Color; GND=Mono Some systems only uses ID0 for monitor ID
13	HSYNC or CSYNC	Output	Horizontal Sync (or Composite Sync)
14	VSYNC	Output	Vertical Sync
15	ID3 or SCL	Input	Monitor ID Bit 3