DualLink

Duallink, often written dual-link, is a term used in display technology to describe signaling or connector configurations that use two data paths simultaneously to carry video information. It is most closely associated with dual-link DVI, where a second TMDS data channel doubles the available bandwidth over a single-link configuration. This extra bandwidth enables higher display resolutions and, in some cases, higher refresh rates.

In dual-link DVI, both the graphics source and the monitor must support the dual-link mode. A standard single-link cable or connector is not sufficient for the higher bandwidth. Typical outcomes include resolutions up to 2560 by 1600 at 60 Hz, compared with up to 1920 by 1200 at 60 Hz for single-link setups. The actual limits depend on the devices and timing.

Historically, dual-link DVI was introduced with the DVI standard in the late 1990s and became common in early 2000s desktop displays and graphics cards. Over time, HDMI and DisplayPort largely supplanted DVI for new designs, but dual-link DVI remains in use on older equipment and in some specialized applications requiring high still-image resolution without modern interfaces.

Connector notes: dual-link configurations can involve DVI-I and DVI-D variants. DVI-I dual-link can carry both digital and analog signals, while DVI-D carries only digital. The pinout and compatibility require matching connectors on both ends.