Many computer users desire a way to view their computer displays in higher quality via their LCD or HD televisions. Other users are looking for a way to utilize the convenience of a second monitor without purchasing dual video cards. For these users, purchasing an s video to VGA converter is the most cost efficient way to accomplish their goals.
S-video is the signal format used on US video systems to increase the image quality versus composite video format that was the previous standard equipment interface. Composite video carries brightness and color information via a single wire and requires certain limitations in the coding of the signal. As a result, there is a maximum resolution quality to the signal, which results in vertical lines appearing smeared or “watered down”. However, s-video utilizes a two wire system to carry to the unique signals. One wire is dedicated to the brightness of the picture, and a second wire is for the coloring. The duality of the system has lead s-video to being referred to as the yc signal; Y is or the luma or brightness signal, and C is for the color signal. The main difference between s-video and composite is that although the color information remains the same, the brightness information has a higher bandwidth, resulting in sharper, clearer, higher resolution images. S-video refers to the standard connection method of most modern televisions, and the output specifically for s-video should be labeled on the back of the television.
VGA stands for Video Graphics Array, and indicates the quantity of colors a device such as a computer monitor is capable of handing. For example, older PC models known as CGA could only process eight unique colors, where as the current VGA style of processing can translate 65,536 colors. VGA is typically used to refer to the standard display system of a computer connected to a monitor, and the exact specifications of the VGA output for a specific machine should be verified in the video card settings for the computer.
The consensus of most users is that the VGA display provides better sharpness and overall quality versus s-video. As a result, several s video to VGA converters are available. The converter is required if the computer does not have the capacity on the internal video card to display TV/DVD s-video visuals. Once connected, the user has a one-button method to change from computer display to what is actively displayed on the television on the VGA monitor. This allows Xbox360, PS3, Wii, DVD, and TV DVR output to be viewed at higher resolution on the computer VGA monitor.
For those frequently at the computer desk, the convenience is also amplified by the fact many s video to VGA converters do not require the computer to be turned on. The converter will have what is known as a “pass-through” that allows the signal to be processed independent of the computing capability of the PC and displayed at any time.
A second usage for the converter is to be able to send the display of the computer to the TV and be recorded via a VCR or DVD Recorder. This allows for future reference of online sessions, the creation of training materials, zooming in for larger view of detailed graphics and presenting computer programs (such as PowerPoint) without needing and LCD projector. It should be noted only the video is sent with a standard converter. In order to send audio signals as well, PC Audio cables will be required. For assistance in locating the s-video output of the television, the user may call the manufacturer, or look for the yellow plug.
Why Connecting S Video To VGA Is Sometimes Essential
There are many reasons a user may elect to view computer output via their television, or visa versa. Other common uses for s video to VGA adaptors or converters are to utilize gaming equipment, camcorders, LCD projectors, or secondary computer monitors. Some users are seeking a higher picture quality, whereas others may need recording capability or an enlarged view. The first step to determining the correct method of display conversion is to determine the type of converter or adaptor necessary.
The first type is s video to DVI. DVI means Digital Video Interface and is the current method of connecting digital/HD televisions and modern computer monitors with HDMI output, and allows for the highest resolution signal quality. The s video to DVI converter or cord would primarily be used to utilize existing HDMI ports to connect to a standard s video television output. For example, recordings made on a standard camcorder with HDMI/DVI output would be accessible to view on a standard s-video television without loosing picture or sizing integrity. Another usage for this type of converter is to connect a newer model laptop which utilizes DVI/HDMI output to a video device, such as an older tube television. This type of s video to VGA converter may require an adaptor cord only, or both the converter cords and corresponding converter box. To determine if the adaptor and cord only option is available, you will need to check the specifics of your graphics card versus the available manufacturers. For example, the $29.00 adaptor cord available from ATI is only compatible with Radeon products. If a converter box and cords are required, the s video to DVI converter is higher in price, and generally starts around $250.00. This is primarily due to the fact the converter box is performing some of the processes already built in to more advanced HDMI video cards.
More commonly used for converting DVD or standard television signal to VGA (computer monitor display) format is a video to VGA converter box. Most converters are plug and play with no software download requirements and can automatically detect the optimum display settings. Prices vary from $20 to over $100; the popular V2VPro video to VGA converter costs around $40 at most vendors and has received high user ratings. The owner that will need a converter box over a cord is more likely to have a VGA video card not currently supported with HDMI or TV-output functionality built in. The video to VGA converter performs the tasks typically associated with higher end video cards to translate the picture from the s video output to the correct sizing and brightness. If the user is not experiencing optimal picture quality, the layout and scaling can usually be manually adjusted depending on the converter model.
The most economical option for s video to VGA output is an s video adapter to VGA cord. Starting around $1.50 each, these cords work with video cards that allow TV-output function via a connector. The user will need to confirm the specifications of their video card will work with this type of connection, or a converter box will need to be used. For most manufacturers of s video adapter to VGA cords, only certain models of Millennium and Parhelia video cards are capable of working without a converter box. Prices vary across different makers, and are typically determined by the length of the cord. A five inch cable will generally start around $1.50, whereas a 50 foot cable will be around $35. Many manufacturers are available, and the highest rated are Cables-to-go Dekcell.
If the user is unsure what method of conversion is appropriate for their needs, he should take the exact specifications of his video card, including maker, model #, and output information to a reputable computer accessories dealer and a salesperson should be able to help the user determine the correct converter method.