Displayport

What does it do?

Displayport is a type of connector for linking your computer to a screen. Most people are familiar with HDMI, which is often used to connect computers, monitors and TVS. Displayport, is more common on computers than it is on TVS. Displayport cables (pictured) and ports look similar to HDMI, except they only have one corner cut away, instead of the two corners on an HDMI cable.

How does it work?

Like HDMI, Displayport uses a 19pin socket and cable to transfer data digitally from a device to a screen. It can carry both video and audio signals, so you only need one cable for the full audio-visual experience. Displayport also supports some features within PC graphics hardware, such as the ability to run more than one monitor from a single port, which isn’t supported by HDMI cables.

What are the specs?

There are several Displayport specifications, ranging from version 1.2 through to version 2.1. Every version can carry 4K video signals, but 1.2 is limited to refresh rates of 60Hz. Version 1.3 can manage 4K at 120Hz or 8K video at 30Hz. Version 1.4 can carry 8K at 60Hz and can also transfer HDR information. Version 2.0 and above is capable of 16K video at 60Hz.

Can I change it later?

Because the socket used by Displayport looks the same across all versions, you can’t easily tell which version you have. You can’t increase the resolution and refresh rate of a screen beyond its maximum by using a superior Displayport cable. However, you can always upgrade a desktop PC’S graphics card if you buy a new monitor that’s capable of supporting a higher version.