DisplayPort Cables

Displayport cables are high-performance digital cables used to connect computer monitors, laptops, and other devices to display screens. Sometimes referred to as DPI cables or DP cables, these cords support the transmission of high-resolution video and audio signals, making it a popular choice for connecting devices that require high-quality display output. A display port is always male on the cable and female on the device. All DP cables have the same basic layout and wiring and will support any feature, including audio, daisy-chaining, HDR and DSC.

How Are DisplayPort Cables Classified?

DisplayPort cables are classified only by their bandwidth certification level:

• RSR (Reduced Bit Rate), RBR DisplayPort Cable - Bandwidth 6.48 Gbit/s
• HBR (High Bit Rate), Standard DisplayPort Cable - Bandwidth 10.80 Gbit/s
• HBRS (High Bit Rate 2), Standard DisplayPort Cable - Bandwidth 21.60 Gbit/s
• HBR3 (High Bit Rate 3), DP8K Cable - Bandwidth 32.40 Gbit/s

It's also important to note that there are different DisplayPort versions, such as 1.2, 1.4, and the latest 2.0. These versions offer varying bandwidth capabilities, which directly impact the supported resolutions and refresh rates of your displays:

• DisplayPort 1.2: Supports bandwidths up to 21.6 Gbit/s, enabling resolutions like 4K at 60Hz.
• DisplayPort 1.4: Increases bandwidth to 32.4 Gbit/s, supporting higher resolutions like 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 30Hz, and introduces Display Stream Compression (DSC) for even higher performance.
• DisplayPort 2.0: Significantly boosts bandwidth up to 80 Gbit/s, allowing for future-proof resolutions like 8K at 60Hz or even 16K at lower refresh rates.

Therefore, it's crucial to choose the right DisplayPort version to ensure compatibility with your specific devices and achieve your desired visual performance, whether you need smooth 4K gaming at 60Hz or ultra-high-resolution 8K video at 60Hz.

Benefits of DisplayPort

DisplayPort cables are used with a range of devices including tablets, notebooks, desktop computers, monitors and televisions and include benefits such as:

• Higher bandwidth potential: DisplayPort offers significant bandwidth capacity, allowing for higher resolutions, faster refresh rates, and greater colour depth compared to other display interfaces.
• High display performance: Utilising various High Bit Rate (HBR) modes (HBR, HBR2, HBR3), DisplayPort delivers exceptional visual fidelity and smooth motion for demanding applications like gaming and professional graphics work.
• Robustness and versatility: Designed with a secure latching connector, DP cables offer a reliable connection. Its versatility extends to supporting both digital audio and video transmission.
• Support for multiple displays via daisy-chaining: A key advantage of DisplayPort is its ability to connect multiple monitors sequentially from a single DisplayPort output on a computer, simplifying cable management.
• Highest level of system integration: DisplayPort streamlines connectivity by combining video and audio signals into a single, efficient connection.
• Ability to connect multiple displays to a single video output: DisplayPort's daisy-chaining feature allows you to connect several monitors in sequence from just one output port.

Types of DisplayPort Connectors

Standard - about the size of a USB connector, commonly used on DisplayPort-enabled PC monitors.

Mini - commonly used for the DisplayPort output on notebook PCs, including Apple products, which include Thunderbolt.

How Is DisplayPort Different From HDMI

HDMI was made primarily for home entertainment systems and is used widely on HDTVs as an AV interface. Some PCs and monitors include HDMI to enable connectivity with HDTVs. However, for really high resolutions and frame rates, other options like a DisplayPort might be better.

DisplayPort is a newer standard originally developed to support the higher performance requirements of personal computers, enabling an increase in performance and integration. It provides a more robust and stable AV link. DisplayPort can deliver 4K video over a length of up to 2m using a passive cable. A 15m passive cable limits resolution to 1080p, and it should manage up to 2560 x 1600 - pixel resolution over 5m.

DisplayPort Cable Length and Signal Integrity

The length of your DisplayPort cable can impact signal quality, particularly when transmitting higher resolutions and refresh rates. As the cable length increases, signal attenuation can occur, potentially leading to a degraded image or intermittent connection.

For optimal performance, it's generally recommended to keep passive DisplayPort cords under 3 metres for 4K at 60Hz and shorter for higher bandwidth demands like 4K at 120Hz or 8K resolutions. For DP cable versions like 1.2, longer passive cables might suffice for lower resolutions, but for the increased bandwidth of DP 1.4 and 2.0, shorter, high-quality cables are advised to maintain signal integrity.

For longer runs where signal degradation might become an issue, active DisplayPort cable are available. These cables incorporate signal boosters to maintain signal strength over longer distances, making them necessary for connecting a DPI monitor cable or other displays located further away from the source device. Passive cables, on the other hand, rely solely on the conductivity of the wires and are suitable for shorter connections.

Avoid Common Mistakes when Purchasing DisplayPort Cables

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when buying DisplayPort cables:

• Guessing the required version: Check the specifications of your graphics card, monitor, and other connected devices to determine the necessary DisplayPort version (e.g., DP 1.4 for 4K at high refresh rates).
• Buying excessively long cables: While longer cables might seem convenient, excessive length can negatively affect signal integrity, especially with passive cables. Consider your setup and choose the shortest DPI cord necessary for effective cable management.
• Ignoring the connector type: Double-check the ports on your equipment before buying.

Industrial Applications of DisplayPort Cables

DisplayPort cords offer high bandwidth and versatile connectivity, making them suitable for various industrial applications. Some common uses across different industries include:

Discrete Manufacturing

In discrete manufacturing, high-resolution DisplayPort cords are used to connect industrial PCs to high-definition monitors for detailed visualisation of production processes, quality control interfaces, and real-time data displays, enhancing operator awareness and decision-making on the factory floor.

Process Manufacturing

DisplayPort cables facilitate the connection of advanced imaging systems and control interfaces in process manufacturing plants, enabling precise monitoring of complex chemical processes, equipment parameters, and safety systems with high clarity and detail for optimal control.

Energy & Utilities

In the energy and utilities sector, DisplayPort cords are employed to connect diagnostic equipment and monitoring stations to large, high-resolution displays in control rooms, providing operators with detailed visualisations of power grids, energy distribution networks, and equipment status for efficient management.

Facilities & Intralogistics

DisplayPort cords are used in facilities and intralogistics for connecting security systems, digital signage displays in warehouses, and control terminals for automated material handling equipment, ensuring clear visual information for monitoring and operational efficiency.

Your Trusted DisplayPort Cables Supplier & Manufacturer

RS is your reliable source for durable and quality DisplayPort cables. We stock an extensive range from industry leaders like Roline, StarTech.com, and RS PRO. Our selection spans various types and sizes at competitive prices, ensuring you find the perfect DisplayPort cable for your application.

We also carry HDMI cables, audio cables, and other AV cables for comprehensive audio-visual connectivity solutions. Buy DP cables and other accessories online today. For more details on our ordering process, delivery services, and delivery fees, please refer to our Delivery page.