dvi

DVI, or Digital Visual Interface, is a video display standard developed by the Digital Display Working Group (DDWG) and introduced in 1999 to provide a primarily digital connection between graphics cards and displays. It was designed to replace the older VGA standard with a signal path that preserves image quality for digital panels, while retaining compatibility with legacy analog displays in some configurations.

The DVI family comprises three connector types. DVI-D carries digital signals only, DVI-A carries analog signals only, and DVI-I combines both digital and analog signals in a single connector. Each type can be implemented as single-link or dual-link, with dual-link variants offering higher bandwidth to support higher resolutions.

TMDS (Transition-Minimized Differential Signaling) is used for the digital paths, while DVI-I includes VGA-compatible analog pins. A DVI interface does not carry audio; audio must be transmitted over separate cables. DVI also supports EDID/DDC for monitor capabilities information.

Because HDMI and DisplayPort provide similar video paths, DVI can often be connected to HDMI devices with passive adapters, since HDMI carries the same TMDS signals as DVI-D. DVI-A or DVI-I can be used with VGA displays via passive adapters or dongles, depending on the source and monitor.

DVI was widely used through the 2000s and early 2010s, particularly for computer monitors. It has largely been supplanted by HDMI and DisplayPort for newer devices, but remains present in many legacy systems and some professional displays.