Display Interfaces
A display interface is used to transfer video, audio, and other technologies between a signal source (usually a computer, docking station, DVD player, etc.) and a display device (monitor, projector). The properties of each interface vary and are described below.
DisplayPort
A digital interface designed by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA).
DisplayPort++ (Dual-Mode DisplayPort):
This optional feature allows a DisplayPort source to modify its signal so that simple passive adapters can convert it to HDMI or DVI signals. Not all DisplayPort connectors support DP++.
Passive adapters transmit the signal without active processing and are limited to a maximum of 4K @ 30Hz.
If the port is a standard DisplayPort (without DP++), passive adapters will not work; active adapters are required to convert the signal.
i-tec video adapters are active adapters for higher compatibility and performance:
DP to HDMI 4K60Hz
DP to VGA
HDMI to VGA
DisplayPort versions and features
1.2 / 1.2a:
- Maximum transfer rate: 17.28 Gb/s
- Maximum resolution: Up to 4K @ 60Hz
1.3:
- Maximum transfer rate: 25.92 Gb/s
- Maximum resolution: up to 5K @ 60Hz or 4K @ 120Hz
1.4:
- Maximum transfer rate: 25.92 Gb/s
- Supports DSC 1.2 image compression enabling up to 8K @ 60Hz
- Supports up to 32 audio channels (previously 8)
2.0:
- Maximum transfer rate: 77.4 Gb/s
- Supports uncompressed resolutions up to 10K @ 60Hz
- Supports DSC 1.2a, HDR, and up to 32 audio channels
- Can simultaneously control multiple 4K/8K displays
2.1:
- Same bandwidth and maximum resolution as 2.0
- Improvements in connection training, cable compatibility, and connection stability
HDMI
The most widely used digital interface for video and audio.
1.4:
- Throughput up to 10.2 Gb/s
- Supports 3D video and up to 4K @ 30 Hz
2.0:
- Throughput up to 18 Gb/s
- Supports up to 32 audio channels and up to 4 audio tracks
- Supports 21:9 aspect ratio
- Supports up to 4K @ 60 Hz
2.1:
- Throughput up to 48 Gb/s
- Supports HDR, DSC compression
- Supports up to 4K @ 120 Hz, 8K @ 60 Hz, and 10K @ 30 Hz
DVI
Digital Visual Interface – an interface for connecting a monitor to a computer. DVI was created with the aim of establishing an industry standard for communication between display devices.
DVI-D – (digital only): digital signal only
DVI-A – (analog only): for compatibility with analog monitors
DVI-I – (digital and analog): digital and analog signal- Connectors may have a second data channel designed for high-definition video transmission.
VGA
Video Graphics Array – a computer standard for display devices. A 15-pin connector with pins arranged in three rows. The VGA connector is used for analog signal transmission.
Other technologies
- G-Sync / FreeSync:
Adaptive synchronization technologies that reduce image tearing, stuttering, and flickering by synchronizing the monitor’s refresh rate with the GPU’s frame rate. - HDR (High Dynamic Range):
A display technology that increases the brightness range to create more realistic images, from rich blacks to
