IT Fundamentals: Display Interfaces

Display Interface

A connection port on a device that allows for the transmission of pixel and timing data to either the internal display or an external display such as a TV or monitor.

Video Graphics Array

Analog video standard used for connecting monitors + projections to computers

• compatible with older devices

• affordable

• signal may degrade when cable lengths exceeds 16-25 ft

Digital Video Interface

• carries both analog and digital signals

• better image than VGA because it transmits direct signals (not analog ones), resulting in sharper images and higher resolution

High-Definition Media Interface

• supports both video and audio signals (TVs, monitors, laptops)

• no need for separate cables

• supports consumer electronics control (CEC) and ethernet

• longer cable = higher degradation susceptibility

• many different versions

DisplayPort

Digital interference designed for high performance display connection

• used in computer monitors and graphics cards

• supports high resolutions (8K) and refresh rates (240 Hz)

• backwards compatible HDMI, VGA, and DVI (compatible with older versions)

• used only in video devices, but can transmit audio

• less common

USB-C

• versatile

• different types of data transmitted, including audio

• high resolutions

• best option

Mirroring

Process of developing display into another device

• easy to set up: shows everything

• built into OS of device

Casting

Sending content from one device to another

• like mirroring, but only specific content