Can I Run a DVI to HDMI From My PC to LCD HDTV?

You can run a DVI to HDMI connection.

HDMI and DVI use a similar technology and are designed to be compatible with each other, according to the HDMI Association. Running a DVI cable from your monitor to an HDTV, however, requires special equipment.

Options

DVI and HDMI use different interfaces. You can convert a DVI signal to HDMI, but you may need a DVI to HDMI adapter, according to Microsoft. Some companies make a cable designed to connect DVI devices to HDMI ports without the need for an adapter.

Considerations

The longer the distance from your PC to your HDTV, the more your signal quality degrades. DVI cables are technically limited to five feet, but some manufacturers go beyond this recommended length.

Warning

If you use a DVI to HDMI adapter on any HDTV, you will see a lower resolution than you would normally expect, according to Microsoft. DVI devices lack the same encoding software used on high definition televisions.

References

• HDMI Association: FAQ
• Microsoft: When using an HDMI cable with your Xbox 360 console, your video or movie content does not display or displays at a reduced resolution
• DataPro: A Complete Guide to the Digital Video Interface

Resources

• Cisco: Digital Visual Interface (DVI) to High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI™) Cable