When combined, these factors make DisplayPort one of the most important display standards of the past decade. Such transmissions are highly efficient and capable of supporting higher resolutions and refresh rates.Īpart from this, DisplayPort features an open and expandable design that enables this standard to receive improvements and see newer iterations over time. This means DisplayPort transmits micro packets of data with an embedded clock signal. However, when we dive into the functioning of DisplayPort at a more technical level, we find that it leverages packetized data transmission in a manner similar to motherboard PCI-Express ports and Ethernet cables. For older devices, users might have to use the control panel of the display device to choose the DisplayPort input manually and set the compatible resolution and refresh rate. Once the physical connection is established, most modern-day devices automatically detect each other and complete configuration procedures automatically. The user must plug each end of the DisplayPort cable into the relevant devices with supporting slots. While DisplayPort does not quite enjoy the universal presence that HDMI sees today, it is a critical hardware standard featuring several capabilities as a connector and cable technology.Īt its core, DisplayPort functions just like other data connection standards. It is an asymmetric connector that features an L-shaped header. What Is DisplayPort?ĭisplayPort has seen widespread usage in the past decade, especially in consumer commodities such as high-end desktop monitors and graphics cards. Let’s learn more about these media interfaces. It is used to connect devices such as Blu-ray players, set-top boxes, and gaming consoles to televisions, as well as CPUs to computer desktops. Today, HDMI sees widespread use in both commercial setups and homes.

On the other hand, high definition multimedia interface (HDMI) is an interface primarily used to transfer high-definition video and audio over a single cable. Source: Beebom Opens a new window (via Wikipedia) The smaller Mini DisplayPort can transmit signals identical to the standard DisplayPort variant.ĭisplayPort vs. DisplayPort connections are primarily available in two varieties: standard and mini. DisplayPort cables are primarily used to connect a display device, such as a desktop monitor, laptop, or projector, to a video source like a CPU. HDMI: 5 Major ComparisonsĭisplayPort is a digital interface for video and audio originally created by the Video Electronics Standard Association (VESA).

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