The advantage of using DVI-I is that it allows you to transmit both types of signals through a single cable, which reduces clutter and simplifies connectivity. So, if you’re looking for a flexible solution for your display setup, consider using DVI-I connectors. DVI-D: Digital Signals Only Other monitor cable types you may see included on some displays, include the legacy optical audio connector, or traditional USB-A ports to use the monitor as a USB hub. What Monitor Cable Do I Need? One advantage of using DVI-D over DVI-I is its compatibility with newer devices that only support digital signals. Older devices may have issues connecting to DVI-D as they require analog signals to display images properly. However, most modern devices can easily connect to a DVI-D port without any problems.

Warning: Although DVI is considered an older display technology and has connections and ports that look similar to VGA, they’re not the same If you’re trying to game on a much older PC and you’re given a choice between VGA and DVI, opt for the latter, as it can transmit a digital signal and offers greater resolution support. Best Productivity Monitor Cable Type Some DVI-D sources use non-standard extensions to output HDMI signals including audio (e.g. ATI 3000-series and NVIDIA GTX 200-series). [17] Some multimedia displays use a DVI to HDMI adapter to input the HDMI signal with audio. Exact capabilities vary by video card specifications. a b "VESA Standards". Video Electronics Standards Association. Archived from the original on January 17, 1999. a b c Digital Visual Interface & TMDS Extensions (PDF) (Report). Silicon Image. October 2004 . Retrieved 31 January 2023.In this particular case, DVI outperforms HDMI connections. This is especially important for people that are gamers. More importantly, on 1080p monitors, DVI offers a sharper, clearer picture which again proves why this technology is still relevant. For this reason, you’ll find that most computer monitors still offer DVA ports, alongside HDMI. Docter, Quentin; Dulaney, Emmett; Skandier, Toby (2012). CompTIA A+ Complete Deluxe Study Guide: Exams 220-801 and 220-802. Indianapolis, Indiana: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. ISBN 978-1118324066. Overall, if you want the best possible digital image quality and have newer devices that are compatible with it, choosing a DVI- D cable is an excellent choice. DVI-A: Analog Signals Only

Although DVI is considered an older display technology and has connections and ports that look similar to VGA, they’re not the same. One of the biggest differences is the supported signals. Potential compatibility issues with graphics cards and monitors that do not support both analog and digital signal transmission.Depending on your choice of monitor cable types, you’ll need to buy a monitor cable as well. Cable Matters carries a large selection of cables in nearly every format mentioned so far. For newer standards like Thunderbolt, HDMI, and DisplayPort, it’s best to opt for the newest and most capable cables for maximum future-proofing. Some DVD players, HDTV sets, and video projectors have DVI connectors that transmit an encrypted signal for copy protection using the High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) protocol. Computers can be connected to HDTV sets over DVI, but the graphics card must support HDCP to play content protected by digital rights management (DRM). You’ll love how DVI-I combines both analog and digital signals, making it a versatile option for all your display needs. With DVI-I compatibility, you can use this type of connector to connect various devices that support both types of signals. This means that you don’t have to worry about whether your device supports analog or digital signals because DVI-I works with both.

DVI– A video only cable type that is typically found on older monitors, desktop graphics cards, and laptops. Commonly found in DVI-D and DVI-I formats, it was also available as Mini-DVI and Micro-DVI for a time. Browse DVI Cables Now that you’ve explored the benefits of DVI-D, let’s take a closer look at DVI-A and why it may not be the best choice for those seeking digital image quality. DVI made its way into products starting in 1999. One of the first DVI monitors was Apple's original Cinema Display, which launched in 1999. MicroCross DVI Connector System: Digital Visual Interface Standard" (PDF). Molex. December 2000 . Retrieved 31 January 2023.

Thunderbolt: an interface that has the same form factor as Mini DisplayPort (in version 1 and 2) or USB-C (in version 3 and 4) but combines PCI Express (PCIe) and DisplayPort (DP) into one serial signal, permitting the connection of PCIe devices in addition to video displays. It provides DC power as well. VESA Plug and Display (P&D) Standard, Version 1" (PDF). Video Electronics Standards Association. June 11, 1997. Archived from the original (PDF) on July 4, 2003.