DVI and VGA are common connections found on computers and monitors.
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DVI stands for Digital Video Interface and is the preferred connection between high-end computer video cards and monitors. LCD screen monitors and televisions often have a DVI port, making connection easy with a DVI cable. However, some screens only offer an older VGA input, requiring an adapter to connect to a DVI equipped computer. Knowing the correct format of connection will allow you to purchase the right cable or adapter for your equipment.
Step 1
Inspect the DVI ports on your hardware. All digital DVI-D connections have a flat blade next to the smaller connection pins, while less common DVI-A and DVI-I also carry analog signal and have four smaller pins surrounding the blade.
Step 2
Connect your computer and LCD screen with a standard DVI cable if they share the same DVI format. Line up the flat blade on the cable with the matching side of the port, and press in the connector until it clips into place.
Step 3
Connect your computer to your LCD screen with an adapter cable if the screen only offers VGA inputs, which are smaller than DVI connections and shaped like a trapezoid. If you wish to use a DVI-DVI cable that you already have, adapters that attach to the end of the cable can be purchased at computer supply stores. Press the VGA end into the port on your screen and secure it with the thumb screws on either side of the connector.
References
- The Smallest: DVI And VGA Explained
- Data Pro: DVI Cables
Photo Credits
- Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images