# Multi-Color Graphics Array

> video subsystem built into the motherboard of the IBM PS/2 Model 30

**Wikidata**: [Q1990686](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1990686)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi-Color_Graphics_Array)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/multi-color-graphics-array

## Summary
Multi-Color Graphics Array (MCGA) is a video subsystem integrated directly into the motherboard of the IBM PS/2 Model 30. Also known as the Multicolor Graphics Adapter, it was commercialized by IBM in April 1987 as a specific computer display standard.

## Key Facts
- **Commercialization Date:** April 1987
- **Aliases:** MCGA; Multicolor Graphics Adapter
- **Hardware Integration:** Built into the motherboard of the IBM PS/2 Model 30
- **Classification:** Instance of a computer display standard
- **Wikidata Description:** Video subsystem built into the motherboard of the IBM PS/2 Model 30
- **MobyGames Attribute ID:** 36
- **Freebase ID:** /m/02dwjm
- **Wikipedia Languages:** Available in 10 languages including commons, English (en), German (de), Spanish (es), and Japanese (ja)

## FAQs
### Q: What is the Multi-Color Graphics Array (MCGA)?
A: MCGA is a video subsystem and computer display standard that was built directly into the motherboard of the IBM PS/2 Model 30. It was introduced by IBM in April 1987.

### Q: How is MCGA different from other display standards?
A: Unlike some display standards that function as separate expansion cards, MCGA was specifically designed as a video subsystem integrated into the motherboard of the IBM PS/2 Model 30.

### Q: When was the Multi-Color Graphics Array released?
A: The technology was commercialized in April 1987.

## Why It Matters
The Multi-Color Graphics Array (MCGA) represents a distinct phase in the evolution of personal computer hardware, specifically regarding the integration of video components. Introduced by IBM in April 1987, MCGA is significant because it was a video subsystem built directly into the motherboard of the IBM PS/2 Model 30. This integration marked a shift in architecture for specific market segments, moving away from the modular display adapters found in earlier systems or higher-end models.

As a defined computer display standard, MCGA provided a specification of display attributes that software and game developers could target. Its existence alongside other standards of the era highlights the diverse approaches to graphics processing before industry standards consolidated. For historians and technology enthusiasts, MCGA serves as a specific reference point for the capabilities and design philosophy of the IBM PS/2 Model 30. Its inclusion in the MobyGames database (Attribute ID 36) further underscores its relevance in the context of video game compatibility and software performance during the late 1980s.

## Notable For
- Being the video subsystem specifically integrated into the motherboard of the IBM PS/2 Model 30.
- Serving as a defined computer display standard with its own specific attributes.
- Being commercialized in April 1987 as part of IBM's PS/2 product line.
- Existing as a distinct entry in gaming and technical databases, such as MobyGames.

## Body
### Identity and Nomenclature
The **Multi-Color Graphics Array**, often abbreviated as **MCGA**, is a computer display standard. It is alternatively referred to as the **Multicolor Graphics Adapter**. It is classified as an instance of a "computer display standard," which defines specific display attributes for computer hardware.

### Hardware Implementation
The defining characteristic of MCGA is its physical implementation. The system is described strictly as a "video subsystem built into the motherboard of the IBM PS/2 Model 30." This distinguishes it from discrete graphics cards that were common in other computing systems of the era.

### Commercialization and Timeline
According to structured data sources, the commercialization date for the Multi-Color Graphics Array is recorded as **April 1987** (specifically 1987-04-00). This timeline places its release within the launch window of the IBM PS/2 series.

### Database and Identifiers
MCGA is tracked across multiple knowledge bases and archives:
- **Wikidata:** It possesses a specific entry with a sitelink count of 17.
- **Wikipedia:** The entity has a "Wikipedia Title" of "Multi-Color Graphics Array" and is covered across 10 language editions, including English, German, French, and Japanese.
- **MobyGames:** It is assigned the attribute ID **36** in the MobyGames database.
- **Freebase:** The entity holds the identifier `/m/02dwjm`.
- **Commons:** Media related to MCGA is categorized under "MCGA."

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013