The complete guide to DVI

 DVI (Digital Visual Interface) is a digital video interface designed by the Digital Display Working Group (DDWG). It can accommodate both digital and analogue video signals via a single DVI connection and is often found on computers, LCD monitors, projectors, and other digital display devices.

The first widely used video interface capable of sending a fully digital video signal was the DVI interface. The digital video signal was first transformed to an analog signal by earlier interfaces, such as VGA, and then transmitted over a cable.

 

The DVI interface enabled computer users to use a digital LCD monitor or an analog CRT monitor through the same graphics card connection by supporting both analog and digital video streams.

The DVI interface uses a variety of connections with different pin configurations to carry video signals:

• DVI-A signals are analog and can be converted to VGA with a passive adaptor.

•  DVI-D sends solely digital video signals. There are two types of DVI-D connectors: single-link and dual-link, with dual-link providing greater bandwidth to accommodate higher resolutions and refresh rates.

• DVI-I supports both analog and digital video signals, allowing computers to connect to both types of displays with a single adapter. DVI-I, like DVI-D, comes in both single-link and dual-link versions. Only the digital signal benefits from the increased bandwidth. Like DVI-A, its video stream can be converted to VGA via a passive converter.

Note***** A digital signal can only communicate with digital devices, and an analog signal can only communicate with analog devices. A DFP or DVI-D (Digital Only) signal cannot be converted to a VGA (Analog) feed.

As if the three DVI variants weren't complicated enough, DVI-D and DVI-I are also available in Single Link and Dual Link configurations. The main difference is that dual link can handle greater resolutions. Single link cables can be detected by having 8 pins removed.

FAQ 

• Can DVI transport audio signals?

No, DVI only transmits video signals. To transmit audio, you must utilize a separate audio line or convert DVI to HDMI with an adaptor cable.

• Is DVI superior than HDMI?

It depends on your requirements. DVI has greater resolutions and refresh rates than HDMI, but it exclusively transmits video signals. HDMI, which allows both video and audio, is more commonly utilized in consumer electronics products. 

• Can I connect a DVI cable to a VGA port?

No, DVI and VGA aren't compatible. You'll need a VGA cable with a VGA port or a DVI cable with a DVI port. 

• What is the difference between DVI-D and DVI-I?

DVI-D (Digital Only) only handles digital video signals, whereas DVI-I (Integrated) accepts both digital and analog video signals. Most current PCs and monitors use DVI-D.

• Do I need a specific cable for dual-link DVI?

Yes, a dual-link DVI cable is required to take advantage of dual-link DVI's higher resolutions and refresh rates. Single-link DVI cables can only support resolutions of up to 1920x1200 at 60Hz.