How to connect a computer (or VGA signal) to an RGB monitor

Once I got my RGB monitor, one of the first things I wanted to do was connect my PC and turn it into an arcade machine.  Then I started thinking about other VGA sources I'd like to try on the montior.  I started reasearching and found page upon page of confusing information!!!  I wanted to create this page to show people how easy it is and to hopefully make sure no one has to suffer through the hours or trial and error I went through!

RGB monitors use a 15Khz refresh rate and a VGA signal uses a minimum refresh rate of 31Khz.  As a result, you need to output the exact refresh rate of 15Khz, in order to use an RGB monitor.  There are two basic methods for accomplishing this:  First, if you're using a desktop computer, getting a special video card will do the trick.  Second, if you're using any other 640x480 VGA source, including a Mac, PC laptop or video game system that's outputting VGA, you'll need a converter.  Please refer to these sections: 


Video Card to RGB Monitor

This page shows you how to install a special graphics card in your desktop in order to display VGA on your RGB monitor.


Any VGA source to RGB Monitor

This page shows you how to connect a laptop, or any other VGA device to an RGB monitor, using an Extron Super Emotia.

To sum it up: 

- If you're only going to be using one desktop PC on your monitor (such as a dedicated arcade machine), just get one of the video cards listed on the Video Card to RGB Monitor page.

- If you'll be using any device other than a desktop PC, get an Extron Super Emotia (or similar) with the necessary cables and save yourself a lot of trouble.

