other sources of vector monitors?

[Bill Brasky]

They used to use vector monitors for computing, computer graphics, high-res drafting displays etc. back in the day. Does anyone know if these monitors are different than the ones used by arcade machines of the day, can be used as substitutes, are more easily available and are more reliable? Did they make any other color vector monitors besides the ones Atari used for Tempest and that Sega used, both notoriously unreliable?

[Cassidy Nolen]

The tubes themselves were not bad, but the parts supplying power were. Like Nolan said, back then transistors did not like to switch at high speed.

 

I read somewhere once that color vector monitor tubes could be switched with monitors that had a specific quality (something like a 135 degree something or other). Its been years, but you might try searching rgvac and see what pops up. The chassis are available for a few models now through arcadeshop.com, so you might piece one together. I know that even dead ones go big bucks.......still looking for a 25 for my SW cockpit (has a Tempest one in there now, and a lovely egg-shaped Death Star )

 

C