The ageing legacy analog display outputs such as Video Graphics Array (VGA) connectivity have been given their marching orders by AMD, Dell, Intel, Lenovo, Samsung, and LG Display, who have announced that they will be removing the VGA ports from their devices by 2015.
Using HDMI and DisplayPort connections will provide improved image quality and require less power to use, hence saving the battery life on connected laptops and systems.
AMD plans to begin phasing out legacy interfaces, starting with the removal of native LVDS output from most products in 2013. The company also plans to remove native VGA output starting in 2013, with expansion to all AMD products by 2015. This would mean DVI-I support will be eliminated in the same timeframe.
The Shift to Modern Connectivity Standards
The transition from VGA to modern connectivity standards like HDMI and DisplayPort marks a significant shift in the technology landscape. VGA, which has been a staple in the industry for decades, is an analog interface that has become increasingly outdated in the face of digital alternatives. HDMI and DisplayPort offer numerous advantages, including higher resolutions, better color accuracy, and the ability to transmit audio and video signals through a single cable.
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) has become the standard for connecting high-definition devices, such as TVs, monitors, and gaming consoles. It supports a wide range of resolutions and refresh rates, making it ideal for modern displays. Additionally, HDMI cables are capable of transmitting audio signals, reducing the need for separate audio connections.
DisplayPort, on the other hand, is designed specifically for computer displays and offers even higher performance capabilities. DisplayPort 1.2, for example, supports resolutions up to 4K at 60Hz, making it a preferred choice for high-end monitors and professional applications. It also supports multiple monitors through a single connection, which is a significant advantage for users who require extensive screen real estate.
Implications for Consumers and Manufacturers
The phasing out of VGA and other legacy interfaces has several implications for both consumers and manufacturers. For consumers, this transition means that new devices will be equipped with more advanced connectivity options, leading to better overall performance and user experience. However, it also means that older devices that rely on VGA connections may become obsolete or require adapters to connect to newer displays.
For manufacturers, the move away from VGA and towards HDMI and DisplayPort represents an opportunity to streamline their product offerings and focus on developing technologies that meet the demands of modern users. This shift also aligns with the industry’s broader trend towards energy efficiency and sustainability, as digital interfaces typically consume less power than their analog counterparts.
“VGA, DVI, and LVDS have not kept pace, and newer standards such as DisplayPort and HDMI clearly provide the best connectivity options moving forward. In our opinion, DisplayPort 1.2 is the future interface for PC monitors, along with HDMI 1.4a for TV connectivity.”
The decision to phase out VGA by 2015 reflects a broader industry consensus that digital interfaces are the way forward. Companies like AMD, Intel, and Dell are leading the charge, recognizing that the benefits of HDMI and DisplayPort far outweigh the limitations of legacy interfaces. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see even more advanced connectivity options emerge, further enhancing the capabilities of our devices.
Via Slashgear
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