Strange problem with D-sub monitor cable

Special K

Diamond Member
Jun 18, 2000
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Last night I unplugged my monitor from one computer and plugged it into another. I turned it on and got a message that said "please check signal" So I unplugged the cord and noticed that there was a pin missing from the D-sub (isn't that what it's called) cable. It wasn't broke off or anything, it was just completely missing, as if something had pulled it completely out. At first I panicked, but then this morning I tried it again and now it works fine. Is there a problem here? Is it possible that the pin was never there to begin with, and isnt really necessary? Can I order a new pin to plug in to the hole (each pin appears to be plugged into its own separate hole, if that makes any sense).
 

gsaldivar

Diamond Member
Apr 30, 2001
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It's not uncommon to find pins intentionally removed from cables - I've no direct experience with this cable in particular tho...
 

bozo1

Diamond Member
May 21, 2001
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VGA connectors commonly have the pins that aren't used missing. Looking at one of mine, I see 2 gone.
 

Special K

Diamond Member
Jun 18, 2000
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I found a picture detailing what each of the pins do here. According to the diagram, the pin I am missing is "Optional +5V output from graphics adapter". What exactly does that mean, and what graphics adapters require it?