Video Cables

Aug 21, 2025

Overview

This lecture covers common video connectors including VGA, HDMI, DisplayPort, and DVI, highlighting their main features, differences, and typical uses.

VGA (Video Graphics Array)

  • VGA uses a blue, 15-pin DB-15 (DE-15) analog connector.
  • Only video signals are sent via VGA; audio requires a separate connection.
  • VGA signals degrade over distances beyond 5–10 meters.
  • The connector is unique to VGA on computers.

HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface)

  • HDMI is a digital interface transmitting both video and audio signals.
  • Uses a 19-pin proprietary connector, commonly called Type A.
  • HDMI cables can transmit signals reliably up to about 20 meters before signal loss or artifacts.
  • HDMI connectors are only found on HDMI devices.

DisplayPort

  • DisplayPort is a digital standard for video and audio signals, using packetized data.
  • Available in standard DisplayPort and mini DisplayPort forms.
  • Standard connectors have locking hooks requiring a release mechanism to disconnect.
  • DisplayPort can be passively adapted to HDMI with a proper cable.

DVI (Digital Visual Interface)

  • DVI supports both analog and digital signals; variants include DVI-A (analog), DVI-D (digital), and DVI-I (integrated).
  • Single-link DVI supports 3.7 Gbps throughput for HD video at 60 fps.
  • Dual-link DVI doubles throughput for HD video at up to 85 fps.
  • DVI transmits video only, not audio.

Identifying Video Connectors

  • VGA, DVI, HDMI, and DisplayPort have distinct connector shapes to help with identification.
  • Video cards may support multiple connector types on the same adapter.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • VGA (Video Graphics Array) — Analog video connector with a blue 15-pin interface.
  • HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) — Digital interface for video and audio, using a 19-pin connector.
  • DisplayPort — Digital standard for audio and video with locking connector design.
  • DVI (Digital Visual Interface) — Video interface supporting analog and digital signals, includes DVI-A, DVI-D, and DVI-I variants.
  • Single-link/Dual-link — Terms describing the data throughput capability of DVI connections.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review the physical connectors for VGA, HDMI, DisplayPort, and DVI to ensure you can identify them.
  • Practice matching the correct cable type to its connector on a video card.

Full transcript