DisplayPort

A digital display standard from VESA that is designed to provide a single interface from a PC to a monitor or TV. Using adapters, the DisplayPort can connect to analog VGA and digital DVI monitors as well as digital TVs using HDMI.

Thinner, More Streamlined Displays

Using a small plug and socket similar in size to HDMI, along with a thin cable that can extend up to 50 feet, DisplayPort is aimed at streamlining the entire interface from source to screen. It eliminates the LVDS electronic circuits inside laptops and LCD monitors and provides a "direct drive" connection from the graphics creation to the LCD panel.

Copy Protection

DisplayPort supports its own DisplayPort Content Protection (DPCP) system along with the HDCP copy protection used in HDMI.

DisplayPort Vs. VGA and DVI

The DisplayPort connector on the left is much smaller than the VGA and DVI connectors commonly found on computer monitors. (Image courtesy of DisplayPort.org)

Apple's Mini DisplayPort

Even smaller, Apple introduced the Mini DisplayPort on its laptops in 2008. Although the full DisplayPort supports HDMI audio, the Mini does not. Third-party cables merge the computer's Mini DisplayPort video and USB audio into an HDMI plug that goes to the TV.

Download Computer Desktop Encyclopedia to your iPhone/iTouch