graphics adaptor

graphics adaptor

(hardware, graphics)(Or "graphics adapter", "graphics card","video adaptor", etc.) A circuit board fitted to a computer,especially an IBM PC, containing the necessary video memory and other electronics to provide a bitmap display.

Adaptors vary in the resolution (number of pixels) andnumber of colours they can display, and in the refresh ratethey support. These parameters are also limited by themonitor to which the adaptor is connected. A number of suchdisplay standards, e.g. SVGA, have become common anddifferent software requires or supports different sets.