VGA vs. DB15: Understanding the Difference
DB15 and VGA/HD15 are different connectors that are sometimes confused due to both having 15 pins.
DB15 Connector
- Configuration: Two rows of pins (7 pins in one row, 8 in the other)
- Width: Wider D-shaped connector
- Common uses: Game ports, old MIDI devices, joysticks
- Also known as: DA-15, DB-15
VGA/HD15 Connector
- Configuration: Three rows of 5 pins (high-density arrangement)
- Width: Smaller, more compact D-shaped connector
- Common uses: Computer monitor connections, video output
- Also known as: DE-15, HD-15, HDB-15
Source of Confusion
- Both have 15 pins and a similar D-shaped housing
- Documentation and marketing materials sometimes incorrectly label VGA connectors as DB15
- The "DB" prefix is often misapplied to all D-subminiature connectors
- Technical specifications should refer to VGA connectors as DE15 (the correct designation)
When identifying these connectors, count the number of rows rather than just the pin count to determine which type you have.