     |
Video card and MonitorChoosing the right video card and monitor can make or break how well you can see. Let’s talk about the evolution of the video card for just a moment.
The first wave of computers to hit the market were very simple. The motherboards were not that complex, and had only 8 bit slots for the peripherals.
This means the first generation video cards were simple 8 bit video with at most 256 colors. Then the upgrade to 16 bits came along and we could have a bigger resolution. The next step to 32 bit processing was clunky. There was an intermediary step that involved a new architecture called VESA local. These special 32bit slots were designed specifically for video cards and some of the faster hard drives that were entering the market. The next step from there was the PCI bus. Now all devices and peripherals could take advantage of more memory and faster processing speeds, and once again the video market had to come up with a solution to out do their competitors. So along came AGP, the accelerated Graphics Port. With the ability to transfer data at 64bits and run at twice the speed of the motherboard the video industry had finally surpassed their competitors. Now that we have gone through our quick history we can talk about your video card. All of the newer machines come with an AGP port standard. Odds are if you have chosen to purchase a newer motherboard you will have an AGP port. Notice that fact, carefully: Your motherboard may already have an integrated video card! Some motherboards come with several peripherals already built-in. Video cards, Sound cards and Network cards are among the most common extras to be integrated right into the motherboard. As you can see, building a computer just gets simpler and simpler as you follow my course: But then again, I told you so! Let's move on in our discussion on video card and monitor selection:
Your next consideration after resolving the “What do I want to use for my Video Card” will be “what do I want for my Monitor?”.
The Monitor will more than likely be the most expensive part of your system. The cheap easy solution is to run to the nearest used computer parts store and grab an inexpensive 15’ monitor for thirty dollars. Your viewing area and available resolutions will be limited however. Don't do this; read on. The most common monitor size in use today is the 17’. These monitors allow for a decent viewing area and excellent resolutions for around $100.
If you happen to have a little more for your budget you can opt for the newer Flat-Panel displays. The newer Flat-Panel displays take up far less room, you don’t have to worry about them going dark after a few years and they emit far less (almost none) of an electromagnetic field.
Here is my recommendation: Do not go cheap on selecting your video card and monitor: I use a 21" flat panel screen with resolution of 1200x1600 pixels for myself: Now that's expensive! When choosing your video card and monitor, you should allow yourself a good-speed video card (otherwise you may sit and wait for images to build up), as well as a 19" screen with good resolution (at least 1024x768). Why? Most likely, you need glasses for reading. I have to admit that I do. A larger screen is better for your eyes. This concludes our discussion on video card and monitors.
I highly recommend computer parts and other electronic products from:
For the latest news on discounted computers and accesories, check: Latest news and special offers!
If you find this website useful, feel free to recommend it to a Friend
Return from Video card and Monitor to Build a Computer
All information contained on this website is for informational purposes only. *Disclaimer: www.silvercitizen.com does not warrant any company, product, service or any content contained herein. |
