A DisplayPort is used to transmit audio and image signals. But when does it make sense to use one? An overview.
A DisplayPort works similarly to HDMI, DVI and VGA – they all transmit digital signals. However, the connection via DVI and VGA only allows video transmission. This does not apply to a connection via HDMI or a DisplayPort, as these transmit both audio and image signals. However, a DisplayPort has a decisive advantage over an HDMI cable. We will explain.
The DisplayPort, or DP for short, serves as a digital interface for transmitting images and sound between a computer monitor and a notebook or PC. Certified and standardized DisplayPort cables correspond to the standard defined by the VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) and are considered a quality feature. The VESA is one of the largest industrial standardization organizations.
DisplayPort was originally launched in 2006 to replace older standards such as DVI and VGA. This technology is intended to meet the increasing demand for high-performance connections for high-resolution displays.
The unique selling point is the connection of several displays, the so-called daisy chaining: Thanks to the support for multi-stream transport, you can connect several screens in series to your computer via a single DisplayPort.
The DisplayPort also has the following advantages over other interfaces:
The primary application is essentially the connection of monitors to the PC or notebook. Due to its fast transfer rates and high resolution, it is particularly suitable for gaming, graphic design and video production. However, if you only need an interface for audio and sound signals for everyday use or in the home cinema area, a newer generation HDMI cable is perfectly sufficient.
After Apple wanted to integrate the DisplayPort, the brand developed the Mini DisplayPort as a compact variant. The Apple product basically offers the same functions as the original – but in a space-saving design. In modern Apple products, this technology is available in the form of the Thunderbolt port. Small devices from other manufacturers are currently still waiting for this interface option.
