ArcadeVGA (Version 1) and LCD monitors...

[RBSavage]

Hi all,

Please pardon my ignorance here...  I've finally been able to get around to building my cab, and use all the parts I have been amassing.  I've got a Version 1 ArcadeVGA card.  However, when I plug in the monitor (a Dell LCD), the monitor complains that it cannot display the resolution.  This is even before I have installed the drivers for the card.  I'm running a mini-ATX board (MSI PM8M-V with everything integrated) if that helps...

Has anyone else ever run across this problem, and if so, any suggestions?  Otherwise, should I order Version 2 of the ArcadeVGA.

Thank you to whoever can help me!

[2600]

Version 1 of the card requires a connection to a 15kHz display which your LCD is not.  It's been a long time, but I think after you set it up on the 15kHz display then you can connect a normal monitor.

[TheManuel]

The main purpose of the ArcadeVGA is to display the low frequency signal of authentic standard resolution arcade monitors of 15kHz.  This scan rate is too low for your LCD which cannot handle anything below 30kHz.  The newer version of the Arcade VGA also works with regular PC monitors but you still don't get the authentic look of a standard resolution monitor because, again, fo the high scan rate and dot pitch of PC monitors.
For LCD's, there is no point whatsoever in using an ArcadeVGA.  LCD's only have one native resolution to choose from.  Any other resolution you feed it will be interpolated and look somewhat blurry.  If you want to use an LCD, sell the ArcadeVGA and use a regular or onboard video card.  If you decide you might want an authentic arcade image in the future, save it for later and eventually acquire an arcade monitor.

Regards.

[BMW Z1]

Does that mean the ArcadeVGA will be up for sale? if so I have a good home for it, if the price is right 

[RBSavage]

Hi again,

Thank you very much 2600 and TheManuel.  I appreciate the advice. 

Sorry BMW Z1, will still hold on to the ArcadeVGA.  I was only trying to get the LCD to worth with the ArcadeVGA in the interim.  I've got an arcade monitor coming but I just wanted to get things set up software-wise whilst I wait for it.

Stupid of me not to put that in my first post...

Thanks again for your replies 

[Ummon]

Either version isn't really worth using with an LCD. Regular Mame settings are quite fine for non-native displays.