Specifications

940
Chapter 15 Video Hardware
DisplayMate
DisplayMate is a unique diagnostic and testing program designed to thoroughly test your video adapter and display. It is
somewhat unique in that most conventional PC hardware diagnostics programs do not emphasize video testing the way
this program does.
I find it useful not only in testing whether a video adapter is functioning properly, but also in examining video displays.
You easily can test the image quality of a display, which allows you to make focus, centering, brightness and contrast,
color level, and other adjustments much more accurately than before. If you are purchasing a new monitor, you can use
the program to evaluate the sharpness and linearity of the display and to provide a consistent way of checking each moni-
tor you are considering. If you use projection systems for presentations—as I do in my PC hardware seminars—you will
find it invaluable for setting up and adjusting the projector.
DisplayMate also can test a video adapter thoroughly. It sets the video circuits into each possible video mode so you can
test all its capabilities. It even helps you determine the performance level of your card, both with respect to resolution and
colors as well as speed. You can then use the program to benchmark the performance of the display, which enables you
to compare one type of video adapter system to another. The Video Edition also supports various types of multimedia pro-
jectors and TVs used in home theater and presentation environments.
See the Vendor List on the CD for more information on DisplayMate (formerly Sonera) Technologies, or visit www.
displaymate.com.
Some video-card vendors supply a special version of DisplayMate for use in diagnostics testing.
16 1738 ch15 7/30/04 10:31 AM Page 940