A method for automatic format detection, video decoder and video display devices therefrom. A video input having an algorithm-based first graphics format is received that carries an RGB video signal, Hsync signal and a Vsync signal. From the Hsync signal and Vsync signal, a plurality of different measured timing parameters are generated including a total number of vertical lines per frame, a total number of vertical lines per pulse width of the Vsync signal, a total number of reference clock cycles per vertical line, and measured polarity information for the Vsync and Hsync signal. An algorithm automatically generates a format detection result that represents the first graphics format using the plurality of different measured timing parameters and the measured polarity information, including a plurality of horizontal and vertical timing information for configuring a video display for the algorithm-based first graphics format.