The Evolution of Video Adapters

There are various types of video adapters, and VGA, DVI, HDMI, DP are the most popular. What are the differences between these four modes? Let us take a closer to find out the truth.

Veteran Screen Mode: VGA

Released: 1987
Also known as D-sub connector, VGA is composed of 15 pins, which is transmitted in the form of analog, which mainly divides the display signal into different types of signals and sends them to the display.

Limitations and Disadvantages of VGA

Generally, VGA may not be able to display images normally if it is more than 15 meters away, and the resolution support can only reach 1920×1080 @ 60 Hz. In addition, since VGA transmits analog, an additional DAC bit is required on the display card The signal is converted to analog, but the analog cannot preserve the color information of each pixel, so the picture quality is poor, especially on larger screens.

Entering the Digital Age: DVI

Released: 1999
VGA transmits analog signals, the reason is to match the CRT screen, but things have changed drastically after entering the era of LCD monitors. If you want to use VGA interface with LCD screen, you need to go through several signal conversions in the middle, so DVI was born.

Types of DVI

DVI may be the most complicated type among all video adapters. It is mainly divided into three categories and five different connector types. Among them, the three categories are DVI-D, which is fully digital, and DVI-A, which maintains analog signal compatibility. And DVI-I combines the characteristics of both.

Limitations and Disadvantages of DVI

The highest resolution of DVI in Single Link is 1920×1200 @ 60 Hz, and the highest resolution of Dual Link is 2560×1600 @ 60 Hz, which is only a little higher than 2K resolution. Moreover, the size of the DVI connector is too large. Generally, the display card can only accommodate two DVI connectors at most, which brings big trouble to the development of the display.

Universal Digitalization: HDMI

Released: 2003
What is special about HDMI is that in addition to video signals, HDMI can also transmit audio signals. After HDMI 1.3 version, it adds support for DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD.

Types of HDMI

HDMI can be divided into five different connector types, namely Type A to E. Type A, C, and D are only different in size, the transmitted content is consistent, so they can be converted to each other. Type B is the Type A corresponding to the DVI Dual Link version. It is very similar to Type A in appearance but wider. Type E is the version for automotive electronics.

Limitations and Disadvantages of HDMI

The most criticized thing about HDMI is that there are a bunch of versions, even the transmission lines are distinguished. The previous version was not much different. The difference is obvious after version 1.3. 1.4 supports 3D images and 1080 resolution at 120 Hz. The 2.0 version can stably support 4K resolution 60 Hz.

HDMI cable identification

The cable with this mark belongs to the HDMI 1.4 standard version, which cannot support 1080p resolution and can only support up to 1080i resolution.

The cable with this mark belongs to HDMI 1.4 high-speed version, which can support 1080p and 2K, 4 resolution and 3D picture.

This kind of mark only appears on the HDMI 2.0 cable, which can support up to 4K @ 60 Hz images. This type of cable must be tested by the HDMI organization and will be issued after passing the test. Due to additional certification fees, such cables are particularly expensive.

The DVI's Successor: DisplayPort

Released: 2006
DisplayPort is a relatively new specification. Overall, its characteristics are similar to HDMI. However, DisplayPort abandons the TMDS technology used in DVI and HDMI in the past and uses LVDS instead. It uses a packet technology similar to Ethernet to transmit data. The benefit of using the packet method is that DisplayPort can achieve the function of a single interface corresponding to several independent devices through a hub, which makes a breakthrough in the development of multi-screen architecture.

Limitations and Disadvantages of DisplayPort

The initial 1.0 version can support a transmission rate of 8.64 Gbps, but the limitation is that the transmission line is only up to 2 meters long. The new 1.3 and 1.4 versions can support a maximum resolution of 4K or even 8K, but the 8K resolution with a 60 Hz update frequency requires version 1.4 with Display Stream Compression technology to achieve.

What We Use on the WCP & WMP Series?

Our WCP/WMP series uses HDMI 2.0 that can support 4K / 60 Hz and DVI-I mode which supports 2560×1600 / 60 Hz, and this year we also upgraded the CPU to the Intel 12th generation. Such specifications must not be missed.

Check out MACTRON GROUP(MTG)’s new WCP Series and WMP Series. Our WCP Series will replace the processor from 8th Gen to 12th Gen early next year, which can perfectly fit all the specification upgrades of the 12th Gen processor. Take a look at this series, maybe there will be unexpected gains for you.

Continue Reading

A Big Step in the Evolution of CPU Generations

 

With the release of Intel's 12th Gen processors in 2022, people from all walks of life say that this is the biggest change in the past 15 years. All brands have successively upgraded their products, whether they are commercial computers or industrial computers.

Let's take a look at what substantial progress has been made in this processor.

Hybrid Architecture of P-Core & E-Core

There is a big innovation of the 12th Gen processors is the design of "Hybrid Architecture". Intel calls this a new breakthrough for the x86 processor, allowing a single processor to have the ability to "configure resources on demand".

Using the combination of "Performance core (P-core)" and "Efficient core (E-core), the former is designed for high-performance computing and has a maximum of 8 cores and 16 threads; the latter emphasizes low power consumption and power saving, with a maximum of 8 cores and 8 threads, making the processor more powerful.

Recognition Technology with Iris Xe Graphics

One of the biggest advancements in 12th Gen processors is Intel Iris Xe graphics. The importance of them is beyond what you might think at first glance. There is Deep Link technology embedded in there that let CPUs and GPUs run AI-powered applications at blazing speed without compromising the user experience.

They have integrated Deep Link technology into Gigapixel AI* application, upscaling images up to 6X with AI adding detail, clarity and improved speed when processing multiple images, and in the transmission process such as HDMI and DP, the graphics can reach 4K or even 8K pixels. It has also led to a huge growth in recognition technology.

A New Tech that Perfectly Fits with Win 11

Because the 12 Gen processor adopts the Hybrid Architecture design, in order to ensure that the two cores can distribute the work in an ideal state, Intel has newly developed the "Intel Thread Director".

This technology collects the current running status and usage of each core. And provide the data to the operating system, letting the operating system make scheduling decisions.

Intel Thread Director can complete thread identification and assignment within 30µs, which is several times faster than traditional schedulers.

However, the current Win 10 operating system does not support Intel Thread Director, and currently needs to be upgraded to Win 11 to obtain the best multi-core resource allocation.

Check out MACTRON GROUP(MTG)’s new WCP Series and WMP Series. Our WCP Series will replace the processor from 8th Gen to 12th Gen early next year, which can perfectly fit all the specification upgrades of the 12th Gen processor. Take a look at this series, maybe there will be unexpected gains for you.

Continue Reading

What can be born when WAM and IIoT are combined?

With the advent of Industry 4.0, AIoT is transforming our life into an information ecological chain. The central control system is the largest part of factory automation. Nowadays, most factories maintain efficacy and precision to implement highly responsive resource allocation by using CNC technology and HMI system.

When your WAM meets HMI

To achieve real-time monitoring, it is necessary to rely on the HMI system to achieve the purpose. The terminal data machine equipped with WAM will combine the data of each stage in the factory and transmit it to any cloud you use, whether it is AWS, GCP, or Azure.

The function of HMI

HMIs are used to optimize an industrial process by digitizing and centralizing data for a viewer. It can be used for monitoring and tracking, or for switching machines off and increasing production speed. By leveraging HMI, operators can see important information displayed in graphs, charts, and also view and manage alarms, all through one console.

Previously, operators would need to walk the floor constantly to review mechanical progress and record it on a piece of paper or a whiteboard. Now HMI technology eliminates the need for this outdated practice and thereby reduces many costly problems caused by lack of information or human error.

WAM applies to all industrialists

According to the Wirtschaftswoche in 2021, in Germany, factories that have moved to HMI systems in the past five years have reduced their manufacturing costs by about 27%, and the conversion profits are billions of euros, far beyond our imagination. This shows the combination of these devices and systems is an inevitable trend.

Check out MACTRON GROUP(MTG)’s brand new WAM Series. Our Panel Mount Touch Panel PC can adapt to all kinds of work environments with powerful performance, and combine with the HMI system. It can meet all your imagination.

Continue Reading

Why should retailers introduce RFID self-checkout systems?

 

In this era of COVID-19, people now are turning increasingly to the ease of online shopping. Physical stores can no longer rely on the traditional transactional model and need to enhance the shopping experience in new ways. Self-checkout through RFID is one of the most effective ways.

How does the RFID self-service checkout system work?

1. Tag Merchandise

Retailers that introduce self-checkout systems need to attach RFID tags to all items for self-checkout purposes and to help prevent loss and returns. Staff may also use the RFID function of the Mobile Tablet PC to quickly organize product information.

2. Read Merchandise

The self-checkout system uses RFID to scan the labels on the goods, and customers only need to put the item on the counter, then approach their mobile phones or smartwatches at the payment sensor to complete the payment. If there is any problem in the payment process, they can also use their cards to check out at the end screen.

3. See Merchandise

Retailers can integrate all RFID-tagged products through AIoT, and then analyze data such as inventory and sales status to improve operational efficiency and customer experience.

RFID Self-Checkout is for any industry

According to a report from Duke University. Walmart generates nearly $1.5 billion in profits annually from self-checkout systems. However, the technology isn't exclusive to big corporations. As technology has evolved, RFID deployment has spread into new fields, now even independent clothing stores or convenience stores can see profits and growth through this technology.

Want to take a big step forward in the self-checkout system? Check out MACTRON GROUP(MTG)’s DRS Series & MCA Series. Our Touch Panel PC & Mobile Tablet PC supports various functions, such as RFID, NFC, MSR, and Barcode Scanner for all your needs.

Continue Reading

How to apply AIoT to the Warehousing industry?

 

What does AIoT for warehousing look like?

Warehouse operators that combine AIoT will install sensor lenses above the shelves to sense the entry, exit and placement of goods, and transmit the data to the cloud server. Combined with the operator's use of Mobile Tablet PC to scan and check, is much easier to be calculated based on the data to formulate development strategies.

Three ways to apply AIOT to the warehousing industry

In 2019, a retailer in the western United States achieved a significant increase in sales by 160% through the AIoT cloud system.

So how exactly does AIoT help the retail industry grow? Here are three examples of practical applications:

1. Synchronized inventory level tracking:

AIoT minimizes human intervention by scanning data and automating the counting process. Distribution centers with AIoT can accurately calculate real-time inventory numbers to track product availability and unfulfilled orders to reduce management errors.

2. Minimize shortages/surpluses:

AIoT system help optimize supply chain processes and prevent avoidable shortages or surpluses by learning recurring patterns.

3. Better use of warehouse space:

By analyzing warehouse usage patterns, AIoT can allocate hot-selling items to shelves closer to the periphery to improve storage efficiency.

Check out MACTRON GROUP(MTG)’s WCP Series & MAS Series. Our Touch Panel PC & Mobile Tablet PC, provide powerful performance, with different sizes and a variety of accessories, to ensure your needs for industrial computers, the most ideal choice for the warehousing industry.

Continue Reading

How AI is Used in Healthcare and Changing the Nature of Work

 When it comes to our health, especially in matters of life and death, the promise of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve outcomes is very intriguing. From hospital care to clinical research, drug development to insurance, AI applications are recasting the workings of the health sector to cut down on spending and enhance the outcomes of the patient.

3 Powerful AI Advances in Medical Healthcare

1. Vertical Nursing Assistants

An AI virtual assistant offers personalized experiences to patients. It helps them to identify their illness based on the symptoms, monitor their health status, schedule doctor appointments, and do more.

Instead of searching for the causes of the symptoms that you are suffering from, you can ask the virtual nursing assistant to guide you through. Moreover, the virtual assistant would be available 24/7, which means it can answer your questions and provide answers in real-time.

2. Image Analysis

Currently, image analysis is very time-consuming for human providers. AI Image analysis can analyze 3D scans up to 1,000 times faster than what is possible today. This near real-time assessment can provide critical input for surgeons who are operating. It is also hoped that AI can help to improve the next generation of radiology tools that don’t rely on tissue samples.

3. Robotic Surgeries

Robots enabled with AI are increasingly assisting microsurgical procedures to help reduce surgeon variations that could affect patient recovery. This will help reduce surgical variation and its attendant inefficiencies and poor outcomes, as surgeons better understand the techniques that align with better outcomes. In addition, those insights can link to a patient’s post-operative and long-term health outcomes.

Check out MACTRON GROUP(MTG)’s WMP Series & MMS Series, our Medical Grade Touch Panel PC to enhance the standard of care in all medical facilities. Provide medical certification to ensure compliance with your medical needs and it’s ideal for medical healthcare segments.

Continue Reading

The Advantages of Using Cast Aluminum

What is Aluminum Die Casting?

Cast aluminum is created when aluminum heated to extremely high temperatures. The molten aluminum is then molded into a shape and cooled to craft a wide variety of products.

Aluminum Die Casting vs. Regular Aluminum

They may sound to be exactly the same. However, there are some differences.
Products made from regular aluminum will definitely have a lower price point, but this is due to its lower quality. While aluminum does not get as hot in high temperatures, it doesn’t provide the same amount of strength. Regular aluminum can dent and scratch easily, so the products produced with it will show more wear and tear more quickly.

Advantages of Aluminum Die Casting Housing Product

High Strength & Hardness

The Microstructure of aluminum casting parts near the surface layer is fine and dense, which makes aluminum casting parts have high strength, hardness, good wear resistance and corrosion resistance.

Good Surface Quality & High Precision

The dimensional accuracy of aluminum casting parts can reach the highest level. Aluminum casting parts have good interchangeability and can produce aluminum casting parts with complex shapes, clear outlines and thin walls and deep cavities. The minimum wall thickness of aluminum casting parts is 0.5mm. At the same time, it can cast clear characters and patterns.

WCP Series & WMP Series
	Windows System Intel Alder Lake Processor Aluminum Die Casting Housing Fanless & Front Panel IP65 Rich & Flexible I/O Port Design Magnetic I/O Port Cover For Easy Maintaining (Optional)

Check out MACTRON GROUP(MTG)’s WCP Series & WMP Series, we proudly incorporate aluminum die casting housing to provide a gorgeous outlook with high strength and good surface quality for everyone.

Continue Reading