Go to homepage

What is SVGA?

The classic standard for image transmission

SVGA stands for Super Video Graphics Array and is a further development of the older VGA standard (Video Graphics Array).

Although modern digital interfaces such as HDMI, DisplayPort and DVI are widely used today and have largely replaced SVGA, this classic is still used, especially in older devices or in certain niche applications. SVGA is often used to connect graphics cards (e.g. in computers) to monitors or other display devices.

SVGA originally refers to a graphics standard (VESA 1.2) that supports a resolution of 800 x 600 pixels. However, the term is often used synonymously for the 15-pin D-Sub connectors that are typical for SVGA cables. These connectors, also known as HD15 (High Density 15), have three rows of contact pins and side screws to ensure a stable connection.

Resolution and image quality


The SVGA standard offers:

  • A resolution of 800 x 600 pixels.
  • A colour depth of 8 bits (corresponds to 256 colours).
While these specifications are sufficient for older devices, modern displays are equipped with significantly higher resolutions. For this reason, SVGA is mainly used today in applications where high image quality is not a priority, e.g. in presentation environments.

Cable lengths and signal quality


SVGA cables can transmit signals over distances of up to 40 metres without any visible loss of quality. However, the signal quality depends heavily on the cable quality and the shielding. High-quality cables, such as the InLine® Premium SVGA cables, offer:

  • Effective shielding against interference.
  • Reliable signal transmission, even over long distances.

The SVGA connector: Robust and versatile

The 15-pin SVGA connector, also known as a D-Sub connector, transmits analogue RGB colour and synchronisation signals. Its three rows of contacts and the knurled screws on the side ensure a stable connection - ideal for stationary installations.

It is often equipped with a ferrite bead near the plug to minimise electromagnetic interference and ensure stable signal quality. Adapters or converters ensure that the plug remains compatible with modern devices, even if it is increasingly being replaced by digital standards.

Why is SVGA still used?

Despite the age of the standard, there are situations in which SVGA still makes sense:

  • Compatibility with older devices: Many older monitors and projectors only have SVGA connections.
  • Simple connection options: SVGA can be connected to interfaces such as DVI or HDMI using adapters.
  • Robustness: High-quality SVGA cables enable stable and interference-free connections, even over long distances.
The SVGA standard may have become outdated, but it still has its justification. Thanks to its reliability, its compatibility with older devices and its flexibility with adapters, it is a practical solution for certain areas of application.
For modern applications with high resolution and image quality, however, digital alternatives such as HDMI or DisplayPort should be favoured.

InLine SVGA cable and adapter


Perfect for older devices: Our high-quality cables and adapters ensure reliable connections - ideal for your needs.
InLine® S-VGA Cable 15HD male / male black 2m
InLine® S-VGA Cable 15 HD male / male
S-VGA cable plug/plug black with double-shielded lines for optimal picture quality. Completely assigned cable (without pin 9).
  • S-VGA cable, black
  • 15-pin HD plug to 15-pin HD plug
  • black plug, sealed
  • double foil shielding plus braid
  • with ferrite
  • full pin assignment, 3 coaxial plus 7 control lines (pin 9 not assigned)

 

InLine® S-VGA Cable Premium 15HD male / male black 1m
InLine® S-VGA cable Premium 15HD M/M black
Premium S-VGA male/male cable with gold-plated contacts, double-shielded cables and copper braiding for the best image quality. Fully populated cable (without pin 9).
  • Premium SVGA Monitor cable
  • HD15 male/male
  • blue connectors, molded, PC99
  • golden contacts
  • double shield foil and CU-braid
  • with ferrit
  • 3C+7 full connected (without pin 9)

 

InLine® S-VGA Cable Premium 15HD male / male black 0.5m
InLine® S-VGA cable Premium 15HD M/M black
Premium S-VGA male/male cable with gold-plated contacts, double-shielded cables and copper braiding for the best image quality. Fully populated cable (without pin 9).
  • Premium SVGA Monitor cable
  • HD15 male/male
  • blue connectors, molded, PC99
  • golden contacts
  • double shield foil and CU-braid
  • with ferrit
  • 3C+7 full connected (without pin 9)

 

InLine® S-VGA Extension Cable 15HD male / female black 2m
InLine® S-VGA Extension Cable 15HD male / female black
InLine® S-VGA monitor extension cable with double shielding for video signal transmission. Constructed with 3 single-shielded coaxial lines (RGB) and 7 data lines this cable has 15-pin SVGA connectors with 1:1 connections (without PIN 9) while the blue colouring of the connectors, as per PC99 standard, guarantees easy identification of the correct port to which to connect the SVGA monitor cable.
  • Sub-D 15-pin HD male to Sub-D 15-pin HD female
  • Cable 3 Coax wires (RGB) + 7 data
  • Pin Configuration Straight 1:1 (No pin 9)
  • Total and single conductor foil shielding
  • Ferrite interference suppression
  • Blue die-cast connectors as per PC99 standard
  • Sheath colour beige

 

InLine® DVI-I Adapter Cable DVI-I male / DVI-I female + S-VGA female
InLine® DVI-I Adapter Cable DVI-I male / DVI-I female + S-VGA female
DVI-I adapter cable, DVI plug to DVI-I socket + S-VGA socket
  • Connect two devices to one DVI-I port
  • gold-plated contacts
  • DVI-I plug (24+5) to DVI-I socket (24+5) and S-VGA socket (15pin)
Item no.: 17301

InLine® S-VGA Cable Premium 15HD male / male black 15m
InLine® S-VGA cable Premium 15HD M/M black
Premium S-VGA male/male cable with gold-plated contacts, double-shielded cables and copper braiding for the best image quality. Fully populated cable (without pin 9).
  • Premium SVGA Monitor cable
  • HD15 male/male
  • blue connectors, molded, PC99
  • golden contacts
  • double shield foil and CU-braid
  • with ferrit
  • 3C+7 full connected (without pin 9)

 

General information
Quality
The SVGA connector: Robust and versatile
Why is SVGA still used?
Cable and adapter
This website uses cookies to ensure the best experience possible. More information...