Computer Monitor

In computers, a monitor is a computer display and related parts packaged in a physical unit that is separate from other parts of the computer. Notebook computers don't have monitors because all the display and related parts are integrated into the same physical unit with the rest of the computer. In practice, the terms monitor and display are used interchangably.The computer monitor is an output device that is part of your computer's display system. A cable connects the monitor to a video adapter (video card) that is installed in an expansion slot on your computer’s motherboard. This system converts signals into text and pictures and displays them on a TV-like screen (the monitor).

The computer sends a signal to the video adapter, telling it what character, image or graphic to display. The video adapter converts that signal to a set of instructions that tell the display device (monitor) how to draw the image on the screen.

What is a Monitor?

The monitor displays the video and graphics information generated by the computer through the video card. Monitors are very similar to televisions but display information at a much higher quality.

The Monitor is Also Known As

screen, display, video display, video screen

Important Monitor Facts

A monitor, no matter the type, connects to either a VGA or DVI port on a video card. Before investing in a new monitor, make sure that both devices support the same type of connection.

Monitors are not typically user serviceable. For your safety, it's not usually wise to open and work on a monitor.

Popular Monitor Manufacturers

Acer, Hanns-G, LG Electronics, Sceptre

Monitor Description

Monitors are display devices external to the computer case and connect via a cable to a port on the video card. Even though the monitor sits outside the main computer housing, it is an essential part of the complete system.

Monitors come in two major types - CRT and LCD. CRT monitors look much like traditional televisions and are very deep in size. LCD monitors are much thinner while still offering equivalent, if not better, graphics quality. LCD monitors are beginning to obsolete CRT monitors due to their smaller "footprint" on the desk and decreasing price.

Most monitors range in size from 15" to 21" or more. This size is a diagonal measurement from one corner of the screen to the other.