A brief history of computer displays

From blinking lights and punch cards to LCDs and 3D flat panels, we trace the 70-year history of the tech that users rely on to see what a computer is doing.

More Composite Monitors

In addition to RF television output, many early home PCs supported composite-video monitors (shown here) for a higher-quality image. (The Commodore 1702 also offered an alternative, higher-quality display through an early S-Video connection.) As the PC revolution got into full swing, computer makers (Apple, Commodore, Radio Shack, TI) began to design and brand video monitors--both monochrome and color--especially for their personal computer systems. Most of those monitors were completely interchangeable.

Photos: Radio Shack (left), Shane Doucette

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