The world of arcade gaming is powered by a fascinating mix of classic and modern technology, with the display interface being a critical link between the game's hardware and the player's experience. The most common types have evolved over the decades, reflecting changes in display technology itself.

For classic arcade cabinets from the 80s and 90s, the dominant standard was the JAMMA (Japan Amusement Machine Manufacturers Association) wiring harness. This system used a single connector to carry power, controls, audio, and most importantly, a standard 15.75 kHz analog RGB video signal directly to a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitor. The video signal was typically delivered via a separate, dedicated harness connecting the game's PCB (printed circuit board) to the monitor's chassis. This direct RGB connection provided a pure, high-quality image with vibrant colors and the distinctive scanlines beloved by retro gaming enthusiasts.

With the decline of CRT production, modern arcade machines and retro refurbishments largely utilize LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) monitors. These require different interfaces. The most common is VGA (Video Graphics Array), a 31 kHz or higher analog signal that was the standard for PCs for many years. Many arcade PCBs, especially those from the late 90s and onward, output a VGA signal natively, making integration straightforward.

For even newer systems or upgraded classic machines using modern hardware like a PC or Raspberry Pi, digital interfaces are prevalent. These include DVI (Digital Visual Interface) and the ubiquitous HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface). HDMI is particularly common as it carries both high-definition video and audio in a single cable, simplifying cabinet wiring. Some specialized interfaces, like CGA (Color Graphics Adapter) to VGA converters, are also frequently used to adapt the low-resolution signals from original classic PCBs to work with modern LCD screens. Ultimately, the choice of interface depends on the era of the arcade machine and the specific hardware it employs, bridging the gap between pixel-perfect nostalgia and contemporary display clarity.