Understanding HDMI, DisplayPort, and Other AV Connectivity Standards & Types

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If there’s one thing we all know about audio-visual systems, it’s that there’s no shortage of cable types and connectors. Some of these connectors are so similar that they can, at first glance, appear just like another type. However, even these connectors that appear similar are not compatible with each other.

In this guide, we’ll discover all the common cable connector types, including HDMI, DisplayPort, and many more. Our guide to AV connectivity standards is organized alphabetically, and we have gone to great lengths to ensure clear pictures of both the ‘male’ and ‘female’ connector types. We’ll give you some insight into what to watch for and provide some professional tips and strategies for optimal cable and connection management.

Quick Jump To AV Connector Type: 

BNCCoaxialDisplayPortDVIRJ45HDMIRCAUSB-CTS & TRSVGAXLR

AV Connector Types

BNC (Bayonet Neill–Concelman)

BNC cable connector - an AV connectivity standard in the audio visual world.

Image courtesy of Hyperwave Media.

Description

A type of coaxial connector with a twist-and-lock mechanism for secure connections. Known for its reliability and ease of use.

Common Use Cases

  • Video signals in CCTV and broadcast equipment.
  • Test and measurement devices such as oscilloscopes.
  • Radiofrequency (RF) applications.

Technical Specifications

  • Supports both analog and digital signals.
  • Frequencies: up to 4 GHz, depending on the type.
  • Typical impedance: 50 ohms (RF applications) or 75 ohms (video).

Advantages

  • Secure connection with the quick twist-lock mechanism.
  • Durable and reliable in professional environments.

Limitations

  • Bulky compared to modern alternatives.
  • Limited use in consumer electronics.

Installation and Management Tips

  • Ensure proper impedance matching (50 or 75 ohms) for optimal signal quality.
  • Avoid excessive bending or pulling of connected cables.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Check for loose connections or worn locking mechanisms.
  • Use termination caps to prevent signal loss when ports are not in use.

Accessories

BNC adapters (e.g., BNC-to-RCA or BNC-to-SMA) and splitters.

Industry Standards

Initially developed in the 1940s, it is still widely used in specialized fields.

Fun Fact

The “BNC” name is derived from its inventors, Paul Neill and Carl Concelman.

Coaxial (Coax)

A coaxial connector

Image courtesy of Hyperwave Media.

A coaxial connector

Image courtesy of Hyperwave Media.

Description

A cable type designed for transmitting RF signals with minimal interference, using a central conductor surrounded by insulation, shielding, and an outer jacket.

Common Use Cases

  • Cable television and internet services.
  • Antenna connections for radios and TVs.
  • High-frequency signal transmission in industrial and laboratory settings.

Technical Specifications

  • Impedance: 50 or 75 ohms.
  • Frequency range: varies by type (e.g., RG-6 for TV, RG-58 for RF applications).

Advantages

  • Effective shielding against electromagnetic interference (EMI).
  • Long-distance signal transmission without significant loss.

Limitations

  • Bulkier compared to some modern alternatives.
  • It can degrade over time if improperly shielded.

Installation and Management Tips

  • Use connectors like F-type, BNC, or SMA for secure terminations.
  • Keep bending to gentle use only to avoid damaging the internal structure.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Inspect for physical damage or corrosion at connector ends.
  • Replace cables showing excessive wear or poor shielding.

Accessories

Signal splitters, amplifiers, and adapters for various connector types.

Industry Standards

Widely used since the mid-20th century, various types are standardized by organizations like ISO and IEC.

Fun Fact

The “coaxial” name refers to the shared geometric axis of the inner conductor and outer shielding.

DisplayPort

A displayport cable connector.

Description

A digital display interface primarily designed for video and audio signals, offering high performance and flexibility.

Common Use Cases

  • Connecting monitors to computers.
  • High-performance gaming setups.
  • Professional video editing and content creation.

Technical Specifications

  • Supports resolutions up to 16K (DisplayPort 2.0).
  • Backward compatible with HDMI using adapters.
  • Supports multi-stream transport (MST) for daisy-chaining monitors.

Advantages

  • Superior video and audio quality.
  • Supports adaptive sync technologies like G-Sync and FreeSync.
  • The locking mechanism ensures secure connections.

Limitations

  • Less common in consumer devices compared to HDMI.
  • Requires adapters for backward compatibility with older standards.

Installation and Management Tips

  • Ensure proper alignment when plugging to avoid damaging the pins.
  • Use certified cables for high-bandwidth applications.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Verify cable quality if experiencing flickering or signal loss.
  • Update drivers for connected devices to ensure compatibility.

Accessories

DisplayPort-to-HDMI, -VGA, or -DVI adapters for legacy systems.

Industry Standards

Governed by VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association).

Fun Fact

Introduced in 2006 as an open standard, DisplayPort is royalty-free for manufacturers.

DVI (Digital Visual Interface)

A DVI connector

DVI (dual-link) is shown above.

A DVI-I connector

DVI-I (dual-link) image above.

A DVI-D connector

DVI-D (single link) is shown above.

A DVI-D dual link connector

DVI-D (dual-link) is shown above.

Description

A versatile video connector standard supporting both analog and digital signals, widely used in older computer monitors and projectors.

Common Use Cases

  • Connecting monitors to computers (pre-HDMI era).
  • Projectors and other professional AV setups.

Technical Specifications

  • Types:
    • DVI-I: Integrated analog and digital.
    • DVI-D: Digital-only.
    • DVI-A: Analog-only.
  • Resolutions: Up to 2560×1600 for dual-link DVI.
  • Backward compatibility with VGA (via adapters).

Advantages

  • Supports high resolutions for its time.
  • Flexible for use with both analog and digital systems.

Limitations:

  • No audio transmission.
  • Bulky connector compared to HDMI and DisplayPort.

Installation and Management Tips

  • Ensure you use the correct cable type (single-link vs. dual-link).
  • Avoid overtightening screws when securing the connector.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Check for bent pins in the connector if signal issues arise.
  • Use adapters for compatibility with newer devices.

Accessories

DVI-to-HDMI and DVI-to-VGA adapters.

Industry Standards

Introduced in 1999 by the Digital Display Working Group (DDWG).

Fun Fact

DVI was designed as a stopgap between VGA and fully digital standards like HDMI.

Ethernet (RJ45)

RJ45 connectors

Description

A standardized connector for wired networking, commonly used in LAN setups and internet connections.

Common Use Cases

  • Connecting computers and AV devices to networks.
  • Streaming and IP-based AV systems.
  • Industrial and commercial networking.

Technical Specifications

  • Data rates: Up to 10Gbps with Cat6/6a cables.
  • Connector type: 8P8C (8-position, 8-contact).
  • Distance: Up to 100 meters without signal repeaters.

Advantages

  • Reliable and high-speed connectivity.
  • Universal in networking applications.

Limitations

  • Requires proper crimping tools for custom cables.
  • Susceptible to signal degradation over long distances.

Installation and Management Tips

  • Use cable organizers to manage network clutter.
  • Label cables for easier troubleshooting in complex setups.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Check for broken or bent pins.
  • Test with a network cable tester to confirm functionality.

Accessories

Cable testers, crimping tools, and patch panels.

Industry Standards

Defined by IEEE standards (e.g., 802.3 for Ethernet).

Fun Fact

The RJ45 connector was initially designed for telephone wiring before being adopted for Ethernet.

HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface)

HDMI cable connector

Description

A widely used digital connector for transmitting high-quality audio and video over a single cable.

Common Use Cases

  • TVs, projectors, and AV receivers.
  • Gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices.

Technical Specifications

  • Resolutions: Up to 8K (HDMI 2.1).
  • Audio: Supports multi-channel formats like Dolby Atmos.
  • Variants: Standard, Mini, and Micro HDMI.

Advantages

  • Combines audio and video into one cable.
  • Easy to use with widespread compatibility.

Limitations

  • Limited cable length without extenders.
  • The connector can wear out with frequent use.

Installation and Management Tips

Use certified HDMI cables for 4K/8K applications.

  • Avoid bending cables near the connector ends.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Check cable connections if experiencing no signal or flickering.
  • Use shorter cables to reduce signal degradation.

Accessories

HDMI splitters, extenders, and adapters (e.g., HDMI-to-VGA).

Industry Standards

Governed by the HDMI Licensing Administrator; first introduced in 2003.

Fun Fact

HDMI replaced a host of older analog connectors like VGA and RCA for home entertainment.

RCA

RCA connectors
RCA cable ends

Description

A classic analog connector used for audio and video signals, identified by its round plugs and color-coded jacks.

Common Use Cases

  • Connecting older TVs, VCRs, and DVD players.
  • Audio equipment like turntables and stereo systems.

Technical Specifications

  • Audio: Red (right channel) and white (left channel).
  • Video: Yellow (composite video).

Advantages

  • Simple and inexpensive.
  • Compatible with many legacy devices.

Limitations

  • Signal degradation over long distances.
  • Lower resolution and audio quality compared to digital alternatives.

Installation and Management Tips

  • Ensure tight connections to avoid signal loss.
  • Use shielding for long cable runs to minimize interference.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Check for loose connections or damaged cables.
  • Replace connectors with poor fit or excessive wear.

Accessories

RCA-to-3.5mm adapters, composite-to-HDMI converters.

Industry Standards

RCA connectors have been in use since the 1940s.

Fun Fact

The RCA name comes from the Radio Corporation of America, which developed the connector.

USB-C (Universal Serial Bus Type-C)

USB-C cable end

Description

A modern, versatile connector designed for high-speed data transfer, power delivery, and video transmission, known for its reversible plug orientation.

Common Use Cases

  • Charging and data transfer for laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
  • Audio-visual connections via DisplayPort or HDMI over USB-C.
  • Power delivery for devices like monitors and docking stations.

Technical Specifications

  • Data Transfer: Up to 40Gbps (USB 4.0).
  • Power Delivery: Up to 100W (PD 3.0).
  • Video: Supports 4K and 8K resolutions (when used with DisplayPort Alt Mode).

Advantages

  • Reversible connector for easy plugging.
  • Combines multiple functions (data, power, video) into one port.

Limitations

  • Compatibility issues with older USB standards.
  • Requires quality-certified cables for high-power applications.

Installation and Management Tips

  • Use certified cables for safety and performance.
  • Label USB-C cables if used for specific purposes (e.g., video, charging).

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Ensure proper compatibility between devices and cables.
  • Test with alternative cables if data transfer or charging fails.

Accessories

USB-C hubs, adapters for HDMI or Ethernet, and docking stations.

Industry Standards

USB-C is governed by the USB-IF (USB Implementers Forum).

Fun Fact

USB-C can replace older standards like USB-A, Micro USB, and even proprietary laptop chargers.

TS & TRS (Tip-Sleeve & Tip-Ring-Sleeve)

A TR connector

TS, or Tip-Sleeve, which some refer to as a ‘¼” jack’,’ is a typical plug for those who use instruments like electric guitars or cheaper microphones from the pre-USB era. Images courtesy of Hyperwave.

A TRS cable end

Description

TS and TRS are audio connectors commonly used for transmitting mono and stereo audio signals, respectively. The number of conductive sections on the plug identifies them.

Common Use Cases

  • TS: Guitar cables, unbalanced mono audio.
  • TRS: Balanced audio for studio equipment such as stereo headphone connections.

Technical Specifications

  • TS: Two segments (tip and sleeve) for mono, unbalanced audio.
  • TRS: Three segments (tip, ring, and sleeve) for balanced or stereo signals.
  • Standard sizes: 1/4″ (6.35mm) and 1/8″ (3.5mm).

Advantages

  • Widely compatible with professional and consumer audio gear.
  • TRS supports noise reduction in balanced connections.

Limitations

  • TS cables can pick up noise over long distances.
  • Misuse of TRS cables in unbalanced systems can cause compatibility issues.

Installation and Management Tips

  • Match the cable type (TS or TRS) to the application for optimal performance.
  • Use shorter cables for unbalanced TS connections to minimize noise.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Check for loose connections if experiencing static or signal loss.
  • Test cables with a multimeter to confirm conductivity.

Accessories

TS/TRS adapters and splitters for stereo-to-mono.

Industry Standards

Common in audio since the early 20th century.

Fun Fact 

The 1/4″ TS plug originated from telephone switchboards, hence its alternate name, “phone jack.”

VGA (Video Graphics Array)

A VGA cable end
A VGA cable end

Description

An analog video connector is widely used to connect computers to monitors, projectors, and older AV systems.

Common Use Cases

  • Legacy computers and monitors.
  • Projectors in classrooms and older meeting rooms.

Technical Specifications

  • Resolution: Up to 2048×1536 (though signal quality may degrade at higher resolutions).
  • Connector: 15-pin D-sub (HD15).

Advantages

  • Universal compatibility with older devices.
  • Cost-effective for legacy systems.

Limitations

  • Analog-only, prone to signal degradation.
  • Limited resolution and no support for audio.

Installation and Management Tips

  • Tighten screws on the connector to ensure a secure connection.
  • Use shorter cables to reduce signal loss.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Check for bent pins if the display is distorted or blank.
  • Replace with a higher-quality cable if ghosting occurs.

Accessories

VGA-to-HDMI or VGA-to-DisplayPort adapters for modern compatibility.

Industry Standards

Introduced by IBM in 1987, VGA has largely been replaced by digital standards.

Fun Fact

The blue color of VGA connectors is part of the DE15 (D-subminiature) standard.

XLR

XLR cables in the back of an audio control board.
XLR audio digital cables in the rear panel of the professional VCR. RGB video cables in blur.
XLR cable ends, male and female
cable connectors on white background , isolated on white background

Description

A professional-grade audio connector commonly used for balanced audio signals in microphones, mixers, and other studio equipment.

Common Use Cases

  • Microphone connections in live and studio setups.
  • Balanced audio connections in professional sound systems.
  • DMX control for stage lighting.

Technical Specifications

  • Standard configurations: 3-pin (audio) and 5-pin (DMX lighting control).
  • Balanced connection for noise-free audio over long distances.

Advantages

  • Secure locking mechanism.
  • Resistant to noise and interference.

Limitations

  • Bulkier than other connectors.
  • Limited to professional and studio environments.

Installation and Management Tips

  • Use cable strain relief to prolong cable life.
  • Regularly clean connectors to maintain signal integrity.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Inspect pins for corrosion or misalignment if audio quality degrades.
  • Test with another cable to identify issues.

Accessories

XLR-to-TRS and XLR-to-USB adapters.

Industry Standards

Introduced by Cannon Electric, the “XLR” name comes from “X series, Latch, Rubber insert.”

Fun Fact

The XLR connector’s durability makes it a standard for stage and studio applications worldwide.

Need Help?

Understanding the vast array of AV connectivity standards can feel overwhelming, but having a clear grasp of the most commonly used connectors, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C, is essential for optimizing your audio-visual setup. 

By following the tips and insights shared in this guide, you can make informed decisions, improve connection management, and ensure your AV systems deliver top-notch performance. Whether you’re a professional IT technician or just looking to enhance your workplace AV setup, this knowledge will help you connect with confidence.

If you need help and your business is located in southern Ontario, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We work with Ontario businesses to solve their audio-visual challenges, offering innovative solutions and industry-leading support.

Article Sources

  1. “RJ45 Connector 101: Everything You Want to Know.” 2024. VCELINK. May 22, 2024. https://www.vcelink.com/blogs/focus/rj45-connector-101?srsltid=AfmBOoqhvfU3KeBQQCxd1mXAH-j3NAMJh6ZO7NmIAg3bR43E5o-uwUdW
  2. Edwards, Megan. 2024. “DisplayPort vs HDMI: Which Cable Is Best for Your Setup?” Hp.com. HP. August 7, 2024. https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/tech-takes/displayport-vs-hdmi#:~:text=Bandwidth%3A%20DisplayPort%20generally%20offers%20higher,features%20ARC%2C%20which%20DisplayPort%20lacks.
  3. NVIDIA Support. 2021. “NVIDIA Support.” Custhelp.com. 2021. https://nvidia.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/221/~/difference-between-dvi-i-and-dvi-d.
  4. “What’s the Difference between a TS Cable and TRS Cable? – SweetCare.” 2022. SweetCare. July 8, 2022. https://www.sweetwater.com/sweetcare/articles/whats-the-difference-between-ts-and-trs-cables/#:~:text=TS%20stands%20for%20tip%2Dsleeve,as%20well%20as%20stereo%20signals..

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