With the rise in High Definition Television, many home users are finding their older televisions are not compatible with newer HD accessories; also, first generation HDTV’s often had a different type of HD connection than newer televisions on the market. For this reason, a rise in video cable adapters has become available for purchase and installation.
First generation HDTV’s utilized a DVI, or Digital Video Interface, connection to connect with HD DVR’s, gaming systems, Blue Ray and HDDVD players. However, as HD technology advanced a HDMI, or High Definition Multi-media Interface, became the norm. One of the reasons for the changeover is HDMI connectors are much smaller than DVI options. The DVI connector is almost identical to the VGA connectors used on computers after 1989, and the similarity was actually the reason for the initial implementation of DVI. However, the HDMI connector is more similar to a USB device and mini-HDMI connectors are also available in some computers and notebook computers. The decrease in the size of the port makes it much more manageable when attaching multiple devices and simplifies cord management.
A second advantage of using an HDMI connection is that both audio and visual signals can be carried over the same cable. When using a DVI connection on a computer or television the user may have up to three mini-jack cables providing sound to the speakers and a fourth DVI connector to display the visuals. However, a HDMI connection carries both audio and visual signals digitally simultaneously over one cable and greatly increases ease of use and installation. However, most computers require video cable adapters paired with an audio converter box to access the graphics card and audio card outputs into a single steam.
HD application has also increased the demand for 30 or higher color-bit displays. In older visual displays the human eye could not distinguish higher than 24-bit color processing, but with the advent of HD technology users can tell a difference between color depth and picture quality across the different bit ranges. DVI is still limited to 24-bit color processing, whereas newer HDMI applications can process up to 48-bit colors with HDMI version 1.3. For users currently on DVI, video cable adapters can work with existing equipment to bring picture quality to the higher standards now available.
The exciting news with the rise in HDMI is it is backwards compatible with DVI connections. By connecting a cable adapter into the DVI port, the other end of the cord can be attached to HDMI output to view the signal with the benefits of the HDMI increased picture quality. However, it should be noted this is only pertinent to the visual aspects of the signal carried over DVI; the audio signal will still need to be carried via a secondary cable unless the user elects to completely exchange the DVI port for an HDMI port or purchase a converter box.
Prices for adapters are generally low and start around $9. Adapters can be located at most major electronics stores and through many different online specialty stores. When selecting the adaptor for you consider also if any additional cabling is needed as these can often be purchased as a bundle pack for a reduced price.