VGA vs SVGA: Understanding the Differences

This page compares VGA and SVGA, highlighting the key differences between these monitor display standards and their respective connector cables.

Introduction:

Monitors are the most commonly used output devices on computers. They come in various types, including CRT, LCD, and LED. Monitor specifications depend on factors like size, resolution, refresh rate, and dot pitch, all tailored to user application requirements. Resolution is a crucial factor, determining the sharpness and clarity of the image displayed.

Monitor resolution is determined by the number of pixels displayed on the screen, arranged in a matrix format.

VGA | Video Graphics Array

• Developed initially by IBM.
• Used as a display standard to transmit analog signals.
• The VGA connector features a 15-pin D-subminiature connector.
• Resolution is approximately 640 x 480.
• Includes 256 KB of video RAM.
• Supports 16 color and 256 color paletted display modes.
• Offers selectable 25.175 MHz or 28.322 MHz master clock.
• Supports a maximum of 800 horizontal pixels.
• Supports a maximum of 600 lines.
• Refresh rates can reach up to 70 Hz (typically 60 Hz).
• Includes vertical black interrupt functionality.
• Planar mode: supports up to 16 colors (4 bit planes).
• Packed pixel mode: supports 256 colors (Mode 13h).

The following table describes the VGA connector pinout:

Table reference site: http://www.interfacebus.com/

SVGA | Super Video Graphics Array

• Developed initially by NEC.
• An extension of VGA.
• SVGA monitors can display 256 simultaneous colors or 16 million colors.
• Supports a resolution of 800 x 600 on a 14-inch monitor and 1200 x 1600 resolution on a 20-inch monitor.
• Being phased out by DVI (Digital Visual Interface) technology-based monitors. DVI is a digital interface that connects a video source (i.e., a display controller) to a display device such as a monitor.

The following table describes the SVGA connector pinout:

Table reference site: http://www.interfacebus.com/

Difference between VGA and SVGA

The following table summarizes the major differences between VGA and SVGA connectors. As mentioned earlier, SVGA supports more colors with higher resolution compared to VGA.