DVI-A carries analogue video, DVI-D carries digital video, and DVI-I combines analogue and digital connections. The plug shape is only part of the compatibility check: the signal provided by the source, the display and the adapter must also match.
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Identify the type
| Type | Video signal | Typical pin layout |
|---|---|---|
| DVI-A | Analogue only | 12 pins plus the blade/contact group, often written 12+5. |
| DVI-D single-link | Digital only | 18+1. |
| DVI-D dual-link | Digital only, with additional data connections | 24+1. |
| DVI-I single-link | Analogue and digital connections | 18+5. |
| DVI-I dual-link | Analogue and digital, with additional digital data connections | 24+5. |
The extra analogue pins sit around the flat blade. Check the device manual and a clear connector diagram before ordering a cable. Do not force a plug into a socket with a different pin arrangement.
DVI-D vs DVI-I
A DVI-D cable can use the digital part of a suitable DVI-I connection. A DVI-I cable with its extra analogue pins may not physically fit a DVI-D socket. The “I” connector does not convert digital video into analogue video; it provides connections for both signal types.
StarTech’s DVI technology guide separates the analogue and digital uses. The actual graphics output and monitor inputs still decide what is usable.
Single-link vs dual-link
Dual-link DVI has more digital data connections and can support higher-bandwidth display modes than single-link DVI. The required cable, source, display and any adapter must all support the chosen mode.
Buying a dual-link-shaped cable cannot upgrade a single-link output or adapter. Check the supported resolution and refresh-rate combination, not a universal maximum copied from another product’s specification.
Which adapters work?
| Connection | What to check |
|---|---|
| DVI-A or analogue-capable DVI-I to VGA | A suitable passive adapter can route the existing analogue signal. |
| DVI-D to VGA | Needs an active digital-to-analogue converter. |
| DVI-D and HDMI | Digital video often works with a suitable cable or passive adapter; check the supported mode. |
| DisplayPort and DVI | Check direction, source support and whether an active adapter is required. |
A passive adapter changes the connector, not the video signal. StarTech’s passive-converter guidance explains that distinction. An adapter that works from one source to one display is not automatically reversible.
What about sound and two monitors?
Plan a separate audio path rather than assuming a normal DVI video connection will carry sound. Depending on the equipment, that might be analogue audio, USB or S/PDIF optical audio.
For extra desktop space, follow our two-monitor setup guide. A simple video splitter normally duplicates a signal; it does not create another independent desktop output.