DVI-I and DVI-D - Similarities and differences of the connections
The DVI monitor connection is divided into the names DVI-I and DVI-D. There is also DVI-A. However, this standard is of little importance in practice. We explain the differences and similarities of the connections.
DVI-I or DVI-D - what's the difference?
The difference lies in the amount and wiring of the pins. Basically, you still have to distinguish between dual-link and single-link cables. The full range of pins is used for dual link connections. Therefore higher resolutions are possible. DVI-D cables are backward compatible: you can plug such a cable into a DVI-I socket. This does not work in the other direction, since the DVI-I cable still has four analog pins.
- DVI-I: In addition to digital, these cables can also transmit analog data, which means that they require four additional pins. Single-link cables achieve a resolution of Full HD, i.e. 1920x1080 pixels. With dual-link cables, up to 2560 × 1600 pixels at 60 Hz are possible thanks to the extra data lines.
- DVI-D: The same data applies here as for DVI-I. The only difference is that DVI-I can also transmit analog data. In the screenshot you see a DVI-D single link connection. The ground pin is marked in green. With a DVI-I connection there are still the mentioned analog slots around this pin. In the case of a dual link system, the area marked in red would also be completely filled with two column pins.
In another article we will show you the differences between VGA and DVI.