From clunky CRT screens that took up an entire desk to thin high res displays that feature dynamic color ranges, computer displays have evolved over the years constantly improving in both efficiency and picture quality. With improvements to resolution come different ways to connect your computer to your display. Whether a VGA, DVI, HDMI, or Display Port, it can be confusing to know what the best display is and how to connect it your computer.
What Are the Different Ways to Connect Your Display and Their Advantages?
VGA (Video Graphics Array) – This is one of the most recognizable display cables – typically with a blue-colored end and includes 15 pins – this was a common connector that is still in use today. These cables are capable of an array of resolutions ranging from 320x400px @70 Hz to as high as 2048x1536px @85 Hz. These cables are slowly being phased out, and newer displays typically will not include a connection for VGA cables.
DVI (Digital Video Interface) – This cable is typically recognized as having a white connector end and up to 29 pins. Seen as the next step up from VGA cables, DVI cables come in different varieties, such as DVI-I indicating digital and analog compatibility and DVI-D indicating only digital compatibility. DVI cables are capable of 1920 x 1200px @60Hz for single link and 2560x1600px @60Hz for dual link. Analog video streams are capable of 1920x1200px @60Hz.
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) – These cables are quickly becoming the new standard as most new monitors are compatible with these cables. HDMI is capable of transmitting both video and audio as well as streaming video at 4K resolution with specific 4K HDMI cables. HDMI is a digital replacement for analog video standards. These cables are typically identified by normally having a black tip with a rectangular shape that bevels inward on each side. HDMI cables may come in different variants as well, such as mini-HDMI, which offers HDMI throughputs via a miniaturized version of itself.
Display Port – This cable was introduced in 2006, and is quickly becoming the new standard in video output cables. Display Port is a digital display interface developed by PC and chip manufacturers and standardized by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA). This cable was designed to replace VGA and DVI cables. DisplayPort cables are capable of sending both audio and video signals. Most Display Port cables are capable of resolutions of up to 3840x2160px @ 60Hz. Display Port cables can also be used to daisy chain multiple monitors together by connecting one to another without having to connect them all back to your computer.
Finding the right monitor for your office can help your team by showing a better field of vision, giving more resolution and color range, and even alleviating eye strain. Working with a managed IT Services provider, like Natural Networks, can give you an edge in finding and installing the right display for you and your employees. If you want to learn more about how a managed IT services provider can help you determine the best monitor and display cables for your office, give us a call today!
