Connect a new graphics card to an old monitor

In the past, connecting video cards to a monitor was done via a VGA video interface. Image transmission was carried out using an analog signal without sound output. The technology was developed so that VGA monitors could easily work with newer versions of graphics adapters that supported a greater number of colors. However, this interface has been replaced by new ones, in which the signal is already broadcast in digital format. Let's see how to connect a VGA monitor to HDMI or another type of interface of your choice.

How to connect a new graphics card to an old monitor

In older monitors there is exclusively a VGA connector, which previously did not cause problems, because most video cards also had this port. However, with the launch of the RX XNUMX models from AMD and the GeForce XNUMX series from NVIDIA the developers decided to ditch the already outdated connection and not add VGA. Therefore, users have to use converters to connect the new video card to the old monitors.

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Choose an active converter

On newer graphics cards all interfaces are digital, so a connection to the monitor cannot be made with a normal adapter. It is necessary to choose one of the most suitable sockets and pick up the converter in the store. Before buying, please pay attention to the following details:

1. Make sure you have the correct connector for your video card. Some models only have HDMI, so you will need to purchase the appropriate converter. However, if your device has DVI or Display Port connectors, you can purchase an adapter for them. Read more about video interface comparisons in our articles.

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2. Active converters use additional power, normally the power from the video card is sufficient, but it is better not to risk it and immediately buy a converter with an additional USB connection. Pay particular attention to the length of the cable and the year of manufacture of your monitor. After all, the sensitivity of the video input decreases, and a long cable makes it difficult to transmit the image. In these cases it is definitely necessary to buy a converter with a cable for the additional power connection.
3. In most cases, digital video interfaces also transmit audio signals, so sometimes it is necessary to use this audio output as well, connecting it to speakers or a monitor. To do this, select the appropriate version of the converter that has a minijack connector.

The vast majority of converters do not require prior configuration or the installation of drivers, you just have to make the connection and start working on the computer.

Connecting a video card to a monitor using a converter

It is not complicated to connect all the cables, you just have to follow a few steps:

1. Connect the converter to the video card via HDMI, DVI or Display Port.
2. Insert the other side of the converter into the VGA connector on the monitor.
3. If necessary, connect additional power to the motherboard's USB port and to the minijack for audio streaming.

Today we have explained in detail how to select a converter and connect it to your video card and your monitor. If after the connection you cannot see the image or the screen goes blank, we recommend that you read our article about it, it will help you find the solution.

Read More:
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