Display article   Subject:  Tandy VGA Monitors
   04/30/97   19:23:05


TANDY VGA MONITORS

The monitor is a critical component of a Tandy Computer.  Here is
a brief description of how our VGA monitors meet the various
needs of our computer customers.


VGM-100

The VGM-100 monochrome monitor is an excellent "low cost" display
that provides a sharp white on black image.  While monochrome
monitors are not measured in dot pitch because of their single
color, the VGM-100 does provide high resolution clarity for text
and grey scale applications.  This monitor, when used for
strictly word processing or data entry type applications, is
excellent for extended use with little eye strain.


VGM-220

The VGM-220 monitor is an excellent "low cost" budget monitor for
the individual who typically uses a computer for just a few hours
a day.  The resolution is not as crisp and sharp as our higher
cost VGA monitors and can cause slight eye strain and fatigue.
The glare-type screen increases this effect.  The education
classroom is an excellent environment for this monitor.  With its
low cost and the use-per-student time of only about an hour a
day, this monitor is ideal.


VGM-200

The VGM-200 monitor is a step up in cost as well as quality.  The
VGM-200 provides a sharper and clearer image and utilizes a "non-
glare" type screen which reduces glare and lessens fatigue and
eye strain for the user.  This monitor is for anyone who sits at
a computer for more than an hour at a time and needs its better
clarity.


VGM-440

The VGM-440 Super VGA monitor is the ultimate in viewing
pleasure.  With its included tilt-swivel base, the angle can be
easily adjusted for proper viewing.  The up-front control panel
allows quick and easy fine tuning adjustments if needed.  The
true sharpness and crispness of each character displayed as well
as the fine high resolution this monitor can display, makes it
the best choice for those who use their computer all day.


Hitachi SuperScan Monitor

The Hitachi SuperScan monitor (available through Express Order)
is for the demanding user who requires superior high resolution
and clarity.  With this monitor on your desk, you can expect to
get up close and personal with any display you choose.  The large
screen enables drawings to be displayed and viewed easily and
accurately.  This monitor is the perfect choice for the user who
demands ultra high resolution.


Dot Pitch

All VGA color monitors are measured in "dot pitch."

"Dot pitch" is expressed as the physical width of an individual
dot as displayed on the monitor screen (e.g. a designation of .28
dot pitch refers to a dot that is 28/100ths of a millimeter in
diameter).  So, the smaller the dot, the more dots per image,
because they can be positioned closer together.

General Rule:  The smaller the number of the dot pitch, the
crisper the image displayed and correspondingly the higher the
price of the monitor.


A Comparison of VGA Monitors In The Current Product Line

Catalog                       Dot     Maximum     Number of
Number       Description     Pitch  Resolution     Colors

25-4040   VGM-100             N/A    720 x 350  64 shades grey
25-4044   VGM-220            .52mm   640 x 480  256 colors
25-4041   VGM-200            .42mm   640 x 480  256 colors
25-4046   VGM-440            .28mm  1024 x 768  16 colors
90-2354   Hitachi SuperScan  .31mm  1024 x 768  16 colors



Video Modes

Video modes reflect the manner in which a computer's display
adapter and monitor present on-screen information (text and/or
graphics).  The Tandy VGA adapter is supported by a number of
software drivers which enable it to support different video
modes.  For example, in the Windows environment you can get:

     640 x 480   256 colors
     800 x 600   16  colors (requires VGM-440)
     1024 x 768  16  colors (requires VGM-440)


Example:  640 x 480 denotes the capability to display 640
horizontal pixels by 480 vertical pixels with 256 simultaneous
colors.

These drivers are above and beyond the standard VGA drivers that
are packaged with Windows and are typically supplied on a
diskette packaged with the computer.  Current versions of the
drivers are also available from Radio Shack Computer Support
Services.

The video mode installed and the quality of your display will
affect everything you do in the Windows environment.


Video Memory

Additional VRAM provides additional video modes and supports a
greater number of colors.  The current line of Tandy "low
profile" PCs (2500 SX and 2500 SX/20) are configured with 256K of
VRAM standard and can be upgraded to 512K (with Part Number
MX-3750 which is available from National Parts), while the 4016
DX and above are configured with 512K of VRAM standard.


All Tandy Multimedia PCs are Configured with 512K VRAM

Within the current line of Tandy Multimedia PCs, 512K VRAM is
standard in each configuration.


Tandy Quality Through and Through

As with all of our products, we expect quality.  All monitors are
rigorously tested and retested for quality standards that meet
and exceed normal manufacturer's standards.  Why?  To provide a
quality product that gives years of service, that's why.  We can
assure you that you are getting the best possible quality and
service when you buy a Tandy Computer with a Tandy Monitor.
