Newsletter
The Black Box website uses cookies.
By continuing the use of the Black Box website, or by pressing the agree button on the right, you consent to the use of cookies on this website. More information.
X
Home > Resources > Technical Resources > Black Box Explains > Interface Standards > DisplayPort - a digital interface standard to connect a computer with a display
Navigation
Interface Standards
« Black Box Explains
 
DisplayPort - a digital interface standard to connect a computer with a display

DisplayPort - a digital interface standard


DisplayPort is a digital interface standard whose primary use is to connect a computer with a display or a high definition television and is built into many computer chipsets produced today. It consists of uni-directional Main Link for transporting A/V streams, a half-duplex bi-directional AUX CH for plug-and-play, and Hot Plug Detect (HPD). It competes directly with HDMI, however, DisplayPort is an open standard with no royalties and it is expected to replace DVI and eventually analogue VGA.


DisplayPort connector image

10.8Gbps of data

DisplayPort v1.1 supports a maximum of 10.8 Gbps over a 2-meter cable; v1.2 supports up to 21.6 Gbps. DisplayPort v1.2 also enables you to daisychain up to four monitors with only a single output cable. It also offers the future promise of DisplayPort Hubs that would operate much like a USB hub.


DVI Connector

Around the same size as a USB connector, DisplayPort uses the same number of connections as a single channel DVI connector, but firmly locks into position. A quick release button is positioned on the top of the connector allowing easy removal of the cable when required.


Replaces Connections and More

DisplayPort replaces the connections between the PC and any associated monitor, but it also does more than that. It can be used to replace the low voltage differential signalling (LVDS) that is common inside laptops, displays and TV's. This eases and simplifies the design of such devices.


Supports all types of Displays

All types of displays are supported by DisplayPort including legacy CRT monitors, TFT LCD panels, Plasma and LCD displays and by using DisplayPort adaptors, connection is possible directly to DVI, VGA and HDMI.


Physical

Physically the compact DisplayPort connector is fairly similar to HDMI in both size and appearance. It only has one angled corner as opposed to HDMI's two. It contains 20 pins for external connectors and 32 pins for iinternal connections.


Performance

DisplayPort supports cable lengths of up to 15 meters with maximum resolutions at cable lengths up to 3 meters. Bidirectional signaling enables DisplayPort to both send and receive data from an attached device. With the proper adapters, DisplayPort cable can carry DVI and HDMI signals, although this doesn’t work the other way around— DVI and HDMI cable can’t carry DisplayPort. Because DisplayPort can provide power to attached devices, DisplayPort to HDMI or DVI adapters don’t need a separate power supply.


Learn more:
DisplayPort v1.2 - the most comprehensive and Innovative Display Interface.