Adapter dvi vga nix. What are DVI and VGA - features and differences

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We tried to make the description as good as possible so that your choice would be unmistakable and informed, but... We may not have used this product, but only touched it from all sides, and after you buy it, try it out, your review can make this world a better place, if your review is really useful, we will publish it and give it You have the opportunity to make your next purchase from us using the 2nd column.

Smartbuy A-123 — Met expectations

5 Baksheev Sergey Nikolaevich 01-01-2019

Smartbuy A-123
Advantages:
Looks the same as in the photo, works well - set it and forget it, fasteners are reliable.
Flaws:
No

DVI-I to VGA - It's different from what's on display, but it works. Completely satisfied.

3 Oleg 18-07-2018

Device owner rating: DVI-I to VGA
Advantages:
1. Inexpensive. 2. Performs its functions. 3. No packaging - less waste. 4. A large package from NICS for such a small crap - it will come in handy on the farm.
Flaws:
1. It differs in appearance from what is on the website. The screws are bare metal, without a plastic boss. 2. No markings. No name, no brand, no sticker with barcode, article number, etc. It is impossible to understand that they gave you exactly what you ordered. 3. The screen resolution is not automatically recognized, it was set manually.

Espada E DVI-DSabadap - works

5 Sveshnikov EM 24-06-2017

Device owner rating: Espada E DVI-DSabadap
Advantages:
Cheap and black.
Flaws:
You need to tinker with the settings to set the normal resolution, because it doesn’t recognize the native monitor and the video card does not allow you to set a high resolution: in the catalyst center of the ATI video card, you need to uncheck the “use EDID” checkbox in the screen properties, then in the screen resolution settings window in Win 7 you need Click the “advanced options” button, and then “list of all modes” and select the native monitor resolution.

Latest generation video cards from NVIDIA and AMD are not equipped with VGA outputs. Moreover, such video cards comply with the DVI-D standard, which means that only digital signals are transmitted via DVI. All this leads to the fact that it is not possible to connect an old VGA monitor to such video cards, even using an adapter from DVI to VGA.

But, not everything is so sad. Such modern video cards can still be connected to old VGA monitors. In this article we will talk about how to connect a VGA monitor to the HDMI or DVI-D output on a video card.

Connecting VGA monitors to DVI-D or HDMI outputs of a video card

So, if you have a monitor with a VGA input and a video card with DVI-D or, then to connect them you will need active adapter. This active adapter converts the digital signal from the video card into an analog signal for the monitor.

These adapters usually have on one side a small HDMI cable that needs to be connected to the video card, and on the other side a VGA output into which you need to plug the VGA cable from the monitor. The pictures below show what such an adapter looks like on its own and already connected.

If there is no HDMI output on the video card, then you can try connecting such an adapter to the DVI-D output. In this case, you will also need an adapter from DVI-D to HDMI.

As for the purchase, active adapters from HDMI to VGA can be found, for example, also in other Chinese online stores. You can also look in local stores. The price for such an active adapter ranges from 500 to 2000 rubles, depending on the place of purchase.

The term DVI-D VGA is a designation for the method of connecting the system unit to a computer monitor or TV. This concept is also actively used to refer to adapters. With their help, old models of PC monitors equipped with analog connectors are connected to new video cards. Correct connection ensures uninterrupted digital signal transmission.

The type of connection under consideration has several important features. First of all, compatibility issues cannot be ruled out. Using a special adapter does not always solve the problem that has arisen. The price of the adapter is relatively low - from $2 to $5. Experts recommend abandoning the use of adapters, giving preference to a signal converter.

The abbreviation DVI stands for Digital Visual Interface, which translated from English means digital video interface. This connector was created for the purpose of transmitting video signals to projectors, computer monitors, televisions and other equipment capable of displaying graphic content. The DVI-D adapter is a digital connection that avoids loss of quality due to the conversion of a digital signal to analog.

The peculiarity of the interface is that it provides data transmission with maximum resolution. Therefore, a high-quality and natural image is displayed on the screen. The signal is reproduced only in digital format. Separately, we note that the DVI-D connection is used on digital LCD screens. The maximum supported resolution is 2048x1536 pixels.

The modification of the DVI-D interface was appreciated by leading organizations that produce monitors and televisions. Users working with computers faced difficulties because of this. The VGA interface began to gradually fall out of mass circulation. Therefore, there was a need to purchase adapters.

Features of the VGA connector

VGA interface – connector for video signal transmission. Computer monitors and video cards were equipped with this interface. To a greater extent, this applies to old devices that were released in the 80-90s of the last century. The VGA connection is designed to transmit an analog signal. Maximum quality – HD.

As for Full HD or 3D file playback, this cannot be achieved with VGA. The interface in question is considered an outdated method of signal transmission. Therefore, it is quite rare. New GPU modules are equipped exclusively with a DVI-D interface. Users are in no hurry to part with monitors that connect to the system unit via VGA. Therefore, compatibility problems arise.

The only way out of this situation is a DVI to VGA adapter. If we compare the technical descriptions of the connectors considered, we can come to the conclusion that the signals are transmitted in different formats. If the set of interfaces on the equipment you are using does not match, then you should buy a high-quality digital-to-analog converter. This device can solve the problem.

Please note that the VGA interface is classified into three additional subtypes. Now let's analyze the features of each of them:

DDC1 – capable of providing unilateral information transfer. The video card will detect the information on the cord and also identify the DDC monitor connected to this component.
DDC2 - the technical characteristics of this connector assume that data exchange will be carried out bilaterally. The monitor transmits information to the PC. The computer automatically adjusts the settings for the connected device.
E-DDC is the most effective subtype. Information about the connected device is stored in the interface memory.

We've sorted out the features of VGA and DVI-D, and now let's analyze compatibility problems and ways to solve them.

DVI-D and VGA compatibility

Comparison of the signals coming from the DVI-D connector to the VGA interface allows us to draw correct conclusions regarding the characteristic differences between these ports. To set up a correct connection, you must use adapters. Special adapters allow you to transmit a digital signal to a monitor that supports the analog standard.

An alternative way to solve compatibility problems is to use a DVI-D to VGA converter. In order not to encounter various difficulties after the fact, you need to study in advance the issue of purchasing the optimal converter.

The main advantage of adapters is their low price. There is only one small nuance. The absence of pins C1-C4 - rectangular holes on the DVI-D port - causes compatibility problems. Even if the monitor does send a signal, the image is unlikely to appear.

The low cost of adapters is the reason that users purchase these devices to configure the connection of an old monitor to a new video card. In some situations, it is possible to connect VGA to the DVI-D interface. However, this is rather the exception than the rule. It is the pinout that causes the lack of signal.

Converters

There are many different modifications of DVI-D to VGA converters. Mostly, these devices require an independent power source to operate. This need is explained by the fact that the device has a non-typical design. This adapter cannot be called an adapter, since it is rather a full-fledged device with a board inside.

It is this feature that significantly increases the cost of the device. Don't try to save money on purchasing a converter. Because this may cause incorrect connection. The function of the converter is to transfer data from a modern GPU module to an outdated model of a TV or computer monitor. Very often, inexpensive TV models are used as a PC or laptop monitor.

The presence of a converter may also become a prerequisite for connecting older projectors. However, most devices of this type are equipped with an HDMI interface. This connector also works with a digital signal. Therefore, the user should not have problems synchronizing with a modern GPU module. Additional adapters are not required in such situations.

Let's consider the signal conversion algorithm. If you analyze the devices available for purchase, you can find adapters with the following properties:

Supports connecting DVI-D to monitors and VGA screens with resolutions up to 1920x1200 pixels. Minimum resolution 800x600 pixels;
The converter input is 21 pin, and the output is 15 pin;
Maximum frequency – 60 Hz;
The length of the converter wire can reach one and a half meters;
Price – from $6.

Remember. The converter is a unidirectional device. This means that it is capable of converting a purely digital signal to analogue. Reverse conversion is not possible. Therefore, when you need to connect a GPU module with a VGA connector to a DVI-D display or TV, you have to use an inverse converter. However, keep in mind that with such a connection it is impossible to achieve high quality of the broadcast image.

When you choose a converter, take into account the fact that this device may not be compatible with the technology you are using. Please remember that the converter will require a separate power supply for proper operation. The audio signal will be output using an additional cable. In situations where the cable connecting the PC and monitor or TV is less than one and a half meters long, connecting it to a power source is completely unnecessary.

In order for all elements of the connection system to function correctly, it is desirable that the connected output device has the same frequency as the converter. Use displays that are no larger than 40 inches diagonally. Otherwise, streaks may appear on the screen.

If the converter converts the signal not only from DVI-D to VGA, but also works with other formats, then it is worth buying a multifunctional device that supports almost all popular interfaces.

Which is better – DVI-D or VGA

If we compare these connectors, we can come to the conclusion that to a certain extent they are equivalent. These interfaces are noticeably inferior to HDMI. Because they are not capable of transmitting audio and video simultaneously. However, in any case, working with DVI-D will be a little more convenient than with VGA. This is a newer interface that can provide a truly high-quality image.

Comparing connectors is to a certain extent incorrect. The time of invention of technologies is not taken into account at all. DVI-D came out much later, so it is designed to work with more modern standards. VGA is used primarily on older output devices. Therefore, they are used extremely rarely.

Note.

The development of technology in the modern world does not stop for a second. Modern technology constantly opens up new functions and possibilities for consumers. However, not only new functionality is important. First of all, you need a clear understanding of how to use new devices.

After analyzing thematic forums and websites, you can understand that a large number of users do not know about ways to connect monitors with a VGA port to a video card with DVI-D output. Inexperienced people often receive advice from the same, not fully informed amateurs, based on their own, often unsuccessful, experience. They usually offer to buy a DVI-D VGA adapter, citing its cheapness rather than practicality.

But this type of adapter is unlikely to work at all, so it is recommended to use DVI-D to VGA, rather than the so-called DVI to VGA adapter.

In order to understand all the intricacies of this type of connection, you need to understand the principle of operation.

How does a DVI-D connection work?

Translated from English as “digital video interface,” it is used to connect and synchronize video images between a video card and a monitor, TV, or any other display device. DVI-D is a technology that allows you to maintain picture quality when switching from analog to digital signal. This type of connection will provide maximum image clarity. It is important to note that this type of connection transmits a digital signal only. Connection using DVI-D is the main one for the general mass of digital TVs of the new generation and provides a maximum of 2K resolution.

This technology began to be actively used by manufacturers of advanced televisions and monitors, which created a lot of problems for many owners of personal computers. This is due to the fact that many users are still forced to use an outdated VGA connection.

What is a VGA connection?

VGA (Video Graphics Array) is an image transmission technology that has survived since the last century and is still used by some users. This type of connection is intended for transmitting an analog signal. The best quality available with a VGA connection is 1280x720 resolution, in other words HD. There is no need to talk about any 2K resolution, as well as image transmission in 3D format.

At the moment, most manufacturers of playback devices have abandoned this technology, considering it outdated. That is why video cards of new models are equipped exclusively with a DVI-D port, but the vast majority of users do not always want to change the monitor on demand, and still use playback devices with a VGA port. That is, it is impossible to simply connect an old monitor without any overlays and loss of image quality. Experts recommend using several connection methods, but in order to find an effective method, you need to understand the process itself. What are we going to do now?

DIY DVI/VGA adapter

Due to the fact that technologies operate through different ports and belong to different generations, the user must clearly understand that the type of signal transmitted from one device to another is also different. That is, for stable use of the playback device, a digital-to-analog converter is required, and not a DIY DVI/VGA adapter or purchased at a flea market. After all, a device of this type is simply not able to convert the signal from analog to digital and/or simply will not work, or the user will not be able to obtain images of the required quality.

Adapter types

Let's pay attention to the types of adapters that users of thematic forums, websites and other various sources advise purchasing:

regular adapter from DVI to VGA;
VGA/DVI-M adapter;
DVI-F/VGA-M adapter.

The price of such devices is extremely small, but the vast majority of users believe that using such a DVI-D VGA adapter is much easier than replacing an old video card, buying a monitor with a suitable port, or looking for a better offer. However, this is not quite true. The cost of a DVI to VGA adapter ranges from 2 to 5 dollars. But in fact, the buyer ends up with an absolutely useless adapter, so that, like many of his fellow sufferers, he wonders why nothing works. So where is the reason for the VGA DVI adapter not working? We will answer this question now.

Connector pinout

Knowing the pinout of the ports, the questionable craftsmen came to the conclusion that by connecting certain connectors, they would get an excellent DVI-D/VGA adapter!

But in fact, if you know the layout of these ports well, then it is immediately clear that this device cannot function at all! If you look at the port, it becomes clear that DVI does not have pins, which are responsible for transmitting the analog signal.

In fact, this answer can easily be found on the World Wide Web: on every topic on this issue there is a post in which the author writes that he seems to have connected everything, but it’s not working. But if the author realized that the connection transmits signals of different types, he knew: it was necessary to convert the signal. That is, simply connecting two different ports will not help. This solution to the problem is quite common on the Internet, but it will not work - one hundred percent.

DVI-D/VGA converter

The only possible connection method is a DVI-D/VGA converter. Of course, its price is higher than that of the adapter, but we have already found out that it is better to pay extra than just throw a few dollars, as they say, down the drain. An adapter from DVI to VGA will not be able to convert an analog signal to a digital one, without which the user will not be able to connect any gadget. The operating principle of a DVI-D to VGA converter is to convert a digital signal to analog.

What do we have left? First: the user needs to pay attention only to the opinion of professionals who have sufficient competence. You should not trust advice because the solution to the problem is cheap, or because the method is popular - this is fraught with either a senseless loss of money or a waste of precious time.

Secondly, if it is obvious that this method of solving a problem does not work for the vast majority, then you need to understand why it does not work before making snap decisions and hoping that in a particular case everything will work. That is, of course, you can try to buy an adapter from DVI to VGA and save money, hoping for an unlikely result. But it is better to buy a converter that guarantees the functionality of the connection.

We hope that the article helped readers understand the issue of how this type of adapter works. The only way out is to purchase a special signal converter and not fool yourself, and the adapter cannot help in any way.

New video cards such as GTX 1060, 1070, Asus RX 470, Asus RX 470 and some other samples from other manufacturers do not come with an analog VGA output. The question immediately arises whether it is possible to connect a monitor that only has a VGA interface to a computer with a DVI-D video card.

Since DVI-D is a completely digital interface, you won’t be able to make your own adapter or bend extra pins in the plug. A standard DVI to VGA adapter will not help you either, again due to the fact that the DVI-D interface is designed only for a digital signal, so such an adapter will not work.

Video cards without analog VGA output

Connecting a VGA monitor/other device to the video card

To solve this problem all you need is:

See if your video card has an HDMI output;
Select an active DVI-D VGA adapter.

Following this simple algorithm will save you from tedious trips to the store to buy additional components, the need for which you found out along the way.

Once it becomes clear what inputs you have on your video card, it’s time to choose the so-called active DVI-D VGA adapter.

This device converts the digital signal from the video card into good old analogue, with which the monitor can already work. As a result of this transformation, the image quality will not suffer or, to be absolutely precise, it will be impossible to see a significant difference.

As a rule, such an adapter looks like a box, in which, on one side, there is an input for an HDMI cable, where we connect the DVI-D cable from the computer’s video card, and on the other side, a VGA output for the monitor cable, respectively.

Depending on the manufacturer Device dimensions may vary There are also models that come with a built-in small HDMI cable. HDMI is a new interface for digital data transmission in high quality, which one way or another, in the future, all manufacturers of video cards, monitors and other image output devices will switch to. The presence or absence of this interface on your video card will determine the need to purchase an adapter from HDMI to DVI-D. P similar adapters are found quite often in electronics stores and finding them will not be difficult.

Maybe it's easier to buy a new monitor?

Are all these design decisions justified, due to which you will have a whole system of cables and adapters between the monitor and the system unit? Of course, the design may not be the most elegant, but the very possibility of connecting a VGA monitor to a computer with a video card that even has a single DVI-D output exists. Although, with such a connection arrangement, the bottleneck will be the adapter from DVI to HDMI (provided that the video card does not have a DVI output). One way or another, it will in any case be cheaper than purchasing a new monitor or video card.

Here you may encounter two main problems:

Price for the device you choose;
Lack of the device you need in the nearest stores.

If you can overcome the first problem by searching on the Internet for models without cable (as a rule, they will be cheaper), then with stores, not everything is so rosy. Since the DVI–I interface is more common and can work with both digital and analog signals, it becomes difficult to find components for its exclusively “digital” counterpart. Most likely, they will tell you that such devices do not exist in nature and will offer to buy a new monitor with DVI-D. Therefore, the best option would be to order such an adapter via the Internet or buy it again through online stores, this will help you significantly save time.

Be sure to read the device characteristics and reviews. In order for everything to work as it should, since some devices have their own connection features, which are not always indicated in the specifications on the pages of online stores. You should be especially careful when the description of the adapter does not indicate that it is active. To purchase the active adapter you need, you should find the website of the manufacturer of the device you found and carefully read the description for it.

There are no significant qualitative characteristics between existing samples of these adapters. Rather, each specific option will be good for use in a given situation. For example, if you are going to make a quick-release connection, then it makes sense to use an adapter with a built-in cable. If you are going to set up the connection between a monitor or projector once and not touch it again, then it would be wise to use an adapter only with cable outlets, this will allow you to choose a cable of suitable length.