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.
Fig. 1: Image of 15-pin VGA Connector
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:
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 |
12 |
ID1 or SDA |
Input |
Monitor ID Bit 1 |
13 |
HSYNC or CSYNC |
Output |
Horizontal Sync (or Composite Sync) |
14 |
VSYNC |
Output |
Vertical Sync |
15 |
ID3 or SCL |
Input |
Monitor ID Bit 3 |
Table 1: Showing pins, their Types, and Respective Description
Output Pins & Moldings
Fig. 2: Output Pins at Reverse End of Connector
Output Pins: Corresponding to the 15 pins that interface with the device are the pins on the opposite side that are soldered to wire.
Fig. 3: VGA Connector Pins Embedded in Plastic Molding
Plastic MoIdings: In Image 03, the metal casing is opened to show the placement of pins in the plastic molding.
Connector Pins & their Structure
Fig. 4: VGA Connector Pins and Structure
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.
Fig. 5: Image of a Single Pin Indicating its Structure
Pin Structure: Image 05 provides a clear picture of the structure of the pin. The end that gets soldered to the wiring is flattened. Proceeding towards the end where male and female connector interface, the pin attains a cylindrical shape.
Filed Under: Insight
Questions related to this article?
👉Ask and discuss on Electro-Tech-Online.com and EDAboard.com forums.
Tell Us What You Think!!
You must be logged in to post a comment.