what is monitor?

What is a monitor?

The monitor is the piece of computer hardware that displays the video and graphics information generated by the computer through the video card.

Monitors are very similar to televisions but usually display information at a much higher resolution. Also unlike televisions, monitors are not usually mounted on a wall but instead sit atop a desk.

Other Names of a Monitor

A monitor is sometimes referred to as a screen, display, video display, video display terminal, a video display unit, or video screen.

A monitor is sometimes incorrectly referred to as the computer, as in the hardware within the computer case, like the hard drive, video card, etc. For example, shutting down the computer isn't the same thing as turning off the monitor. It's important for that distinction to be made.

Important Monitor Facts

A monitor, no matter the type, usually connects to either an HDMI, DVI, or VGA port. Other connectors include USB, DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt. Before investing in a new monitor, make sure that both devices support the same type of connection.

For example, you don't want to buy a monitor that has only an HDMI port when your computer is capable of accepting only a VGA connection. Although most video cards and monitors have multiple ports so as to work with various kinds of both devices, it's still important to check their compatibility.

f you do need to connect an older cable to a newer port (e.g., HDMI to VGA) — like if you're using a monitor that has a VGA connection, with a computer that uses HDMI — there are adapters for this very purpose.

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