Mini DVI to HDMI is a technology used to connect a Mini DVI source or output, such as a computer, to an HDMI input, such as an HDTV. Technologies also exist to connect Mini DVI to DisplayPort, VGA and other audio/video standards. Mini DVI to HDMI is an especially popular and accessible technology because it is a convenient way to connect notebook computers, particularly some Apple Macs, to a display that does not have a DisplayPort or DVI-D port.
The biggest problem with this type of display link is that consumers have grown accustomed to HDMI, which always carries both a video and audio signal. They simply expect the digital video interface to do the same, but this isn’t the case. In fact, prior to 2008 a digital video interface port, link or cord was like VGA in that it was unlikely to support audio. If your DVI connection does output audio, then all that you need is a simple passive DVI-D to HDMI cable.
The iMac seems to but many other MacBooks do not support audio on their digital video interface implementation. Research and test before you buy; otherwise, you’ll get video but no sound, which is useless for watching videos and playing games and the like. If your link does not support audio, an alternative is to output the audio independently. For instances, most Macs have a digital audio output, and most modern TVs have a digital audio input.
Another common reason that people use this type of adapter is to facilitate dual displays. A common dual setup is using a monitor while also using the built-in MacBook screen. In this case, you can typically buy the cheapest cord available, and sound is not much of an issue, because the sound is onboard. An important factor, however, is output quality. If you Mac and LCD screen both support 1080p, you’ll want a cable rated for 1080p. Older Macs were 720p.
Apple product owners should be aware that their devices often require Apple-branded connections. For instance, an off-brand Mini-DVI to whatever may not work, while an Apple Mini-DVI to whatever will. This can present a number of problems and limitations. One way to overcome this is to buy the smallest, cheapest Apple Mini-DVI-to-DVI you can find. Then, you’ll be able to use that end to connect to most adapters currently available on the market.
A particularly popular solution these days is the small square-shaped switches that contain Mini DVI to HDMI as well as other standards, such as VGA, DVI-D, DisplayPort and so forth. This is a nice gadget to have in your laptop bag; as long as you have the appropriate cable on hand, you’ll be able to connect your computer to whichever support