When purchasing a monitor, a dilemma often arises as to which of the available interfaces to use. As a rule, manufacturers build 2-3 interfaces into the equipment, which, at first glance, do not differ much. The choice can be difficult if you do not take into account the fundamental differences and technological features.
This article will tell you the Similarities And Difference Between Dvi And Hdmi and which is better DVI or HDMI. We will also pay special attention to what to do if the interfaces do not match. We will find out what a working adapter should be, how best to choose it, and also whether it is possible to make an adapter yourself.
Table of Contents
Similarities And Difference Between Dvi And Hdmi
First, let’s talk about what the two technologies have in common. First, it should be noted that although DVI has three types of connectors (analog, digital and mixed), attention will be paid to one. The reason is that most monitors have a DVI-D (digital) interface. It also has the most in common with HDMI.
Similarities Between Dvi And Hdmi
Let’s highlight the following similarities between the two interfaces:
- Digital interfaces
- Both interfaces use the same information transfer technology
- HDCP encryption (not available on all DVI versions)
- Consistent image quality up to Full HD resolution
Difference Between Dvi And Hdmi
Despite a lot in common, both interfaces differ significantly at the same time. The main differences are listed below:
- HDMI is capable of transmitting audio data, while DVI does not support audio
- Different number of digital channels
- HDMI is more versatile, therefore suitable for most multimedia equipment
- Certain versions of HDMI cable may support Ethernet connection
- HDMI has increased bandwidth, especially the latest specs
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Difference Between Dvi And Hdmi in appearance
If the cables are similar in appearance, then the plugs of the two interfaces have little in common, so they are unlikely to be confused. The DVI plug is quite large, has a lot of contacts, and is also equipped with clamps that make it impossible to accidentally pull out the cable. HDMI, on the other hand, is a small and neat connector similar to USB. There are no latches in it, but there are small latches that do not allow the connector to “move away”. There will also be fewer HDMI contacts. In short, in the multimedia interface, the developers have also taken care of the ergonomic and aesthetic characteristics of the connector.
which is better dvi or hdmi
Typically, many of today’s monitors contain both interfaces. To choose one of them, you need to consider what other technique will be used with the computer. It is advisable to leave at least one HDMI output of the video card free so that you can connect a TV, projector or something else at any time. If the screen resolution is higher than Full HD, we recommend using HDMI only, as the older DVI may not have enough bandwidth. If the monitor is not so high resolution, then you can make a choice “for an amateur” – the difference in quality will not be noticeable.
how to use hdmi to dvi adapter
The advantage of the two interfaces is that they use the same data transfer format and similar technology. This allows two devices with different interfaces to be easily connected if required. No complicated adapters required – even a simple DVI to HDMI adapter will work. Such devices do not contain complex microcircuits, and therefore are inexpensive. The DVI HDMI Monitor Adapter does not affect the video and image quality. When using converters from digital to analog or vice versa, data loss cannot be avoided, but the connection of these interfaces is devoid of such a disadvantage.
Using an adapter is advisable if you have an old projector or monitor that still works properly. In this case, there is no need to purchase new equipment. The adapter will transfer information to the output device without loss. Such a device does not take up much space, so there will be no inconvenience during use.
The second use of the adapter follows from the section “How best to connect the monitor”. Many PCs only have one HDMI output. Having occupied it with a monitor, the user will be deprived of the opportunity to connect a TV or other multimedia device to the computer. You can solve the problem by connecting an HDMI monitor to the DVI connector through an adapter.
Important Note: As stated earlier, DVI bandwidth is significantly lower than the latest HDMI specifications. As with most interfaces, an HDMI to DVI adapter can only match the characteristics of a less “advanced” cable. Therefore, if your monitor resolution is higher than 1920×1080, we recommend using an HDMI splitter rather than an adapter. Such a device will allow you to connect another piece of equipment to the connector.
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Main characteristics
An HDMI DVI cable is technically capable of delivering images of any resolution. This parameter is controlled exclusively by the output settings of the video card, as well as the resolution of the monitor. However, there are still limitations. DVI comes in both single and dual link. The difference is that the interface bandwidth is up to 3.4 Gbps per channel. A single-channel cable is only suitable for conventional monitors, as discussed above. Therefore, images with a resolution higher than Full HD will only be displayed correctly when using Dual-link DVI. Otherwise, it is recommended to lower the image resolution in the video card settings.
The DVI to HDMI adapter is not friendly with sound, so you need to look for a variation of the adapter with a separate audio output, to which you will have to connect an audio cable. Otherwise, you may not even dream of receiving sound through the interface. Otherwise, the adapter works perfectly, is slightly susceptible to interference, and also does not heat up, which prolongs its service life.
Optimal cable length
The length of the adapter is limited by the interface specifications. With HDMI, the signal is transmitted losslessly over a distance of up to 10 meters. In addition, it is possible to use amplifiers, with which this indicator increases significantly. As for DVI, manufacturers do not recommend using a cable longer than 3 meters, as picture distortion may appear. Therefore, the DVI HDMI adapter should not be longer than 3 meters.
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DIY DVI to HDMI adapter
To make an adapter yourself, you need to study the pinout of both connectors in order to understand which contacts they have the same. It is their outputs that will then need to be connected together. If it is difficult to correlate them yourself, use the ready-made diagram, which shows what to solder to what. Once soldering is complete, you can plug in an adapter to make sure everything works. After that, the ends can be reinforced with heat shrinkage and boldly start using the finished product.
Conclusion
An HDMI to DVI adapter can greatly simplify your life in many circumstances. Its schematic diagram is quite simple, so the device is inexpensive. In addition, those who wish can even make it with their own hands. A working adapter is able to extend the life of outdated, but working equipment, easily “making friends” it with a new computer.
