Cisco Networking Academy - Fundamentals of Web Design 2.4 Color Formats 2.4.3 Computer delivery color Computers rely on three primary pieces of hardware to deliver color information to you: The CPU (Central Processing Unit) A video graphics card The monitor The quality of color you see at your computer depends on the quality and capability of these components. If any one of these components is incompatible or unequal in its properties, the end results will not be as true and refined as possible. Furthermore, different computer platforms and operating systems (OS) have differing capabilities when it comes to color. Macintosh OS is known for its higher-end color as is all Windows OS versions after 3.1. If you are using a standard Unix machine, you are at a disadvantage because of lower color capabilities. You need to have an understanding of how and why there are color limitations. Knowing your own machine and the capabilities of your viewing audience will help you do just that.