How do I know if I need a video amplifier with soft15?

[Mauzy]

I need some clarification here. I have a Pentranic 1132 (or 1123... whatever it is it uses the CH-288 chassis), standard resolution that I want to use with soft15. I've used this monitor before with soft15 with an excellent picture once in a game, but this was done with admittedly embarrassing ignorance of proper procedure. I let it run in boot up with a screwed up screen and I'm sure I wasn't using a proper resolution. This was all about a year ago. I only did this for a week, then went back to normal JAMMA games. Luckily no noticeable damage has been done. Now that I know a little more, I'm wondering if a video amplifier is necessary. Like I said I had gotten a great image once in a game, but I don't want to go and damage anything. I'm planning on a permanent MAME-ing of this cab in the near future, and I want to do it with the safety of my components in mind.

Also, am I correct in thinking that the DOS screens and everything that comes up before the computer puts out the 15khz signal can damage the monitor?

[Level42]

I don't know that monitor but since you mention it's standard res and in a Jamma cab I assume that it requires TTL level signals (5V). VGA is only 1V so too low, although you probably will get a picture.

The thing you need is a J-pac. Video amp on bourd, blocks the wrong synced boot-up screens and provides the easiest way to interface the controls to the PC.

[Mauzy]

Hmm... didn't know the J-PAC had an amplifier. Im good then. Was planning to get one anyway!