Standard VGA Resolution In classic PC graphics terminology, what is the native pixel resolution commonly associated with the standard VGA display mode?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 640 x 480

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The Video Graphics Array (VGA) standard defined baseline display capabilities for early PCs and remains a reference point in troubleshooting, compatibility modes, and embedded systems. Knowing the canonical resolution helps when configuring BIOS screens, safe-mode video, and legacy hardware.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We are referring to the standard VGA graphics mode defined by IBM and widely supported.
  • “Native” here means the most recognized base graphics resolution tied to the VGA standard.
  • Interlaced or extended Super VGA (SVGA) modes are excluded.


Concept / Approach:

Standard VGA provides multiple text and graphics modes. The best-known graphics mode is 640 by 480 pixels at 60 Hz, originally with a 16-color palette in the basic spec. This resolution became the de facto safe mode for boot screens and OS fallbacks because almost all hardware can generate it reliably.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify common VGA modes: 320 x 200 (13h) for 256-color games, and 640 x 480 for general graphics.Recognize that “standard VGA” commonly denotes 640 x 480.Exclude higher SVGA resolutions (for example, 800 x 600, 1024 x 768) that require VESA extensions.Select 640 x 480 as the standard VGA resolution.


Verification / Alternative check:

Motherboard BIOS and OS “VGA mode” fallbacks consistently use 640 x 480, confirming this as the accepted baseline.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

648 x 320 and 680 x 440 are nonstandard values. 1024 x 786 is a misspelling/mistake of 1024 x 768 (SVGA), not standard VGA. “None of the above” is unnecessary since 640 x 480 is correct.


Common Pitfalls:

Confusing VGA with SVGA or with DOS game mode 320 x 200 (Mode 13h). Ensure you distinguish “standard VGA” from later extended modes.


Final Answer:

640 x 480

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