DisplayPort

(1) Written as two words, a "display port" is a generic description of a socket that is cabled to a monitor. See VGA, DVI and HDMI.

(2) (DisplayPort) The latest digital interface between a computer and monitor, standardized by VESA (www.vesa.org). DisplayPort uses a small connector and thin cable that extends to 50 feet. First deployed in 2008, DisplayPort gained traction on PCs, but Macs use Mini DisplayPort and its Thunderbolt variation. See Thunderbolt, Mini DisplayPort and SlimPort.

DisplayPort is also used internally in laptops and TVs. An Embedded DisplayPort (eDP) connects the laptop motherboard to the LCD screen, and the TV counterpart is the Internal DisplayPort (IDP).

Audio
DisplayPort supports up to eight channels of 16-bit or 24-bit PCM audio with sampling from 32 to 196 kHz. Monitors with built-in speakers connected to the computer via DisplayPort need no additional cable for audio. See PCM.

Packets Are More Efficient
Unlike other monitor interfaces, DisplayPort transmits packets, each of which contains its own clock synchronization. The packet architecture enables DisplayPort to be enhanced much more easily than an interface where each physical pin is dedicated to some purpose. In addition, DisplayPort allows for slimmer screens, because it eliminates circuits that would otherwise be in the monitor.

Copy Protection
DisplayPort supports HDMI's HDCP copy protection and optionally the DisplayPort Content Protection (DPCP) scheme, which is similar. See HDCP.

Multiple Channels
DisplayPort (DP) supports multiple independent data streams and can drive up to six monitors daisy chained together (see MST). Also included is an auxiliary channel for device control and management. In Version 1.2, the auxiliary channel increased from 1 to 720 Mbps to enable video transfer along with USB 2.0 data.

 Maximum Maximum Bandwidth ResolutionDP Version (Gbps) Single Monitor 1.4 2016 32.4 7680x4320 8K 1.3 2014 32.4 7680x4320 8K 1.2a 2010 See adaptive sync. 1.2 2009 17.28 4096x2160 4K 1.1 2007 8.64 2560x1600 1K

DisplayPort Plugs

The Mini DisplayPort is also used for regular DisplayPort signaling as well as Thunderbolt connections, which adds support for PCI Express (PCIe). See Thunderbolt. (Image courtesy of Amazon.com.)

Support for Other Displays

With passive cables, "dual-mode" DP (++ logo) connects to TVs via HDMI and to monitors via single-link DVI. VGA and dual-link DVI monitors require active adapters. See VGA, DVI and HDMI.

Support for Other Displays

With passive cables, "dual-mode" DP (++ logo) connects to TVs via HDMI and to monitors via single-link DVI. VGA and dual-link DVI monitors require active adapters. See VGA, DVI and HDMI.