Technology is one of the most incredible movements as it has birthed a lot of creative ideas. Gadget these days come with a lot of features that allow its users flexible access.
To this end, you can use your gadget (computer) as a multimedia source to cast whatever you are viewing. This is very easy to accomplish if you can install a high-quality video card, have an LCD computer, monitor, and have enough storage space.
Computers come in different specifications, designs, and colors, and each has distinct ports that users can use to link their gadgets. One of the features your device must have to cast your computer successfully is either of the following; an HDMI, VGA, or DVI. However, this article will be reviewing DVI cable.
What is DVI?
Digital Video Interface (DVI) is one of the most prominent connection ports on LCD monitors. This connection port has become a part of LCD computers and monitors since the mid-2000s.
Generally, a DVI cable enables your computer or monitor to project a high-quality video for your viewing components. A DVI port comes with 24 pins, and is usually, most DVIs are in color white or off-white. However, some manufacturers color the port depending on the type of DVI connector.
Types of DVI Cable
There are different types of DVI cables, and each is designed to give users flexible connection solutions. With the suitable DVI cable, users will be able to connect to either digital or analog screens. Below are the types of DVI cables available:
- DVI-D
This cable type is designed for digital signals and can connect a digital LCD monitor to a computer’s video card. It enables fast connection and higher display quality.
- DVI-A
This cable is suitable for users with a CRT monitor with a VGA connection. With a DVI-A cable, users will be able to transmit DVI signals to any analog display system.
- DVI-I
DVI-I is more flexible as it is suitable for both digital and analog signals. That is, it can transmit either an analog or digital signal to a computer.
Determining Which DVI Cable to Purchase
When making a DVI purchase, you will need to check the type of DVI cable to use for your device by checking both DVI plugs to determine the signal it is compatible with. However, if you are unsure, you can use the guide below:
- Users with one or both DVI—D connections will require a DVI-D cable
- If you have one or both DVI-A connections; you will need a DVI-A cable
- For users with one connection that is DVI and the other is VGA will require a DVI to VGA cable or DVI/VGA adapter
- Users with both DVI-I connections can use any DVI cable
- For users with one analog connection and one digital connection, they will require a converter rather than a cable
Functions of a DVI Cable
The good thing is, most AV equipment now comes with an HDMI connector. An HDMI connector enables users to send high-quality video and audio signals. However, if your computer comes with DVI connections rather than a VGA port, then you can use it to send video signals.
With a compatible video card and DVI port, users can easily stream and watch their favorite shows, movies, and TV series. Gone are the days of CRT monitors that offer only VGA ports that produce lower image resolution and quality.
With a DVI cable, users can cast the digital system from your computer to your LCD monitor. Generally, DVI enables the transmission of digital video content to display devices at a high resolution.
Usually, DVI transmits at a resolution of 2560 x 1600. Most devices can use DVI connections; devices such as computers, monitors, projectors, and some TVs.
How to Identify DVI Cables
To identify the type of DVI cable you have, check the side of the DVI; a flat pin on the side of the DVI cable signifies whether it is an analog or digital DVI. A DVI-A or DVI-I cable has a flat pin with four pins around it. While on the other hand, a DVI-D cable has only a flat pin.
Luckily, users can identify the type of DVI cable they have by checking the pins on the connector. Alternatively, you can check your device’s manual before purchasing a DVI cable to determine the type of DVI to buy.
Conclusion
DVI cables make it easy to transmit visual signals either through digital, analog, or both display systems. This cable comes in different types, and it is recommended that you check the type that came with your device before making a DVI purchase.
Note that a DVI cable only transfers visual signals. That is, after casting, you will be able to see the pictures but not hear the sound. Also, ensure to check the supported image resolution of the cable.
Generally, most cables support 1080p video alongside a maximum resolution of 1920×1200. Also, depending on your computer or monitor type, you might have more than one DVI connection port.
