Connecting a modern GPU to a PC VGA CRT monitor \ VOGONS

Connecting a modern GPU to a PC VGA CRT monitor

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First post, by Scythifuge

Posted on 2025-10-13, 16:25

Scythifuge Offline

Rank Oldbie

Rank: Oldbie
Posts: 917
Joined: 2006-06-27, 04:44

Greetings,

Can anyone recommend an adapter that allows the connection of a VGA monitor to a modern GPU via HDMI or DisplayPort that allows for 640x400@70Hz in MS-DOS? I figure that it is only a matter of time before old systems fail. I acquired a NOS 19in PC monitor, and think that 86box would be a good solution for replacing physical systems. Another option would be to build a system dedicated to 86box/dosbox and put an older PCIe card in there with a VGA port, but I would rather use my main system if possible. I know that many adapters are limited to 60Hz, but there has to be something out there...

Scythifuge

Reply 1 of 2, by wierd_w

Posted on 2025-10-13, 16:49

wierd_w Offline

Rank Oldbie

Rank: Oldbie
Posts: 1292
Joined: 2023-07-14, 06:20

I just did some testing on this with a win10 laptop, and a garbage teir HDMI->VGA dongle from Walmart. (Store-brand 'Onn' garbage).

The adapter is able to be driven faster than 60hz, but this is based on resolution.

When driven at 1024x768, this adapter can do 75hz.

The attachment 2025-10-13-11-44-18-073.jpg is no longer available

The attachment 2025-10-13-11-44-29-608.jpg is no longer available

Further testing at this 4:3 monitor's native resolution still permits 75hz refresh.

At 1920x1080, it mashes the display (NOT 16:9!), and tops out at 60hz.

The attachment 2025-10-13-11-54-49-502.jpg is no longer available

Reply 2 of 2, by Scythifuge

Posted on 2025-10-13, 19:43

Scythifuge Offline

Rank Oldbie

Rank: Oldbie
Posts: 917
Joined: 2006-06-27, 04:44

wierd_w wrote on 2025-10-13, 16:49:
I just did some testing on this with a win10 laptop, and a garbage teir HDMI->VGA dongle from Walmart. (Store-brand 'Onn' garbag […]
Show full quote

I just did some testing on this with a win10 laptop, and a garbage teir HDMI->VGA dongle from Walmart. (Store-brand 'Onn' garbage).

The adapter is able to be driven faster than 60hz, but this is based on resolution.

When driven at 1024x768, this adapter can do 75hz.

The attachment 2025-10-13-11-44-18-073.jpg is no longer available

The attachment 2025-10-13-11-44-29-608.jpg is no longer available

Further testing at this 4:3 monitor's native resolution still permits 75hz refresh.

At 1920x1080, it mashes the display (NOT 16:9!), and tops out at 60hz.

The attachment 2025-10-13-11-54-49-502.jpg is no longer available

Thank you!

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