displayport

Speed matters. It's why faster 4G data networks are gaining in popularity; it's why we buy new computers with better processors. This is the appeal of Thunderbolt, the Intel-developed high-speed data port that's popping up on new Macs in 2011. So far, it's in 2011 MacBook Pros and iMacs.

Thunderbolt is lightning-quick, as the name suggests. Transfer speeds are 10Gbps--twice as fast as USB 3.0--and it works both ways, into and out of your computer. HD video and data can be carried back and forth over the same tiny cable, with a connection port that'… Read more

I think there were many who follow the electronics field who believed DisplayPort would quickly usurp DVI as the digital connection of choice on computer monitors. That (probably inevitable) future has yet to be realized, but its likelihood is increasing.

It's taken a few years, but judging by the ratio of DisplayPort-capable monitors we've reviewed in 2010 vs. 2009 (4:1), I'd say 2011 will likely be its breakout year.

So, while we all wait for DisplayPort to become a household name, I've compiled a list of the best DisplayPort-capable displays we've reviewed so far. … Read more

Laptops once used to be the domain of word-processing programs, file databases, and light gaming, but more often than not most people currently use their laptops as makeshift do-it-all interactive televisions. With the abundance of streaming video sites and TV/movie content available, they're often the most versatile entertainment products on the market, pound for pound.

Unfortunately, you're locked in to a screen that often has limited viewing angles and a resolution that's often less than 1080p. There's good news, though: connecting to an HDTV is a lot easier than most people think--provided you have an … Read more

Bad news: the new MacBook Pros still lack HDMI, a very convenient and increasingly ubiquitous way for any laptop to output its audio and video on to an HDTV or receiver.

Good news: it's slightly easier to connect your MacBook Pro to a TV than it was before.

MacBook Pros now support an audio signal over the Mini DisplayPort jack. Believe it or not, the old MacBooks could only output video through that port, and audio had to be output via a separate audio cable connected to the audio-out jack. We can say from experience that connecting previous MacBooks … Read more

As a follow-up to a monitor we recently reviewed, the NEC MultiSync EA221WM-BK, on Tuesday NEC announced the 23-inch NEC MultiSync EA231WMi.

The EA231WMi is a 16:9 aspect ratio monitor with a few notable improvements over the EA221WM-BK. First off, the new display uses an IPS-based panel as opposed to the TN panel the EA221WM-BK used. Also, the EA231WMi is the first NEC desktop display to feature a DisplayPort connection.

DisplayPort is a rare, but powerful connection that has been heralded as the future of digital monitor connections.

Additionally, the monitor includes a one-touch button for Eco Mode and … Read more

I reviewed Apple's LED Cinema Display late last year and found it a great performer. But it was only compatible with a small subsection of the market--thanks to Apple's use of Mini DisplayPort as its sole video connection. Due to this decision, the display was disappointingly only compatible with the new MacBooks.

This week, Collins announced that it will be the first company besides Apple to release LCD computer monitors with MDP connections.

Collins has dubbed the monitor line CinemaView, and the first three models are slated to be available by September 1.

The three CinemaView displays are … Read more

Are you a new MacBook owner getting frustrated with Apple for not yet releasing a Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapter? Sure we all are. Well, maybe some of us.

I mean, you could shell out $900 for the Apple "I only use Mini DisplayPort" (not an actual quote from the monitor) LED Cinema Display, but seriously, unless you're an AIG exec, who has that kinda scratch these days?

Anyway, Apple has yet to release an official adapter that would allow you to connect your pretty little MacBook to an HDMI-based external display. Thank goodness then for the … Read more

I couldn't be at the Tuesday morning Apple launch event for the new MacBook and MacBook Pro systems, but I've had a chance to review the announcements.

Normally I focus on the technology in new products, but this time, I have to say my first impression is dominated by the appearance of these systems. These are some good-looking laptops.

The most dramatic change is the new display surround, black glass that goes right out to the edge of the upper case just like on an iPhone. The lower case also looks significantly cleaner now that the old gray … Read more

Following on the heels of yesterday's Crystal LCD release, Dell is at it again today with a new 30-inch LCD monitor, the UltraSharp 3008WFP. Compared to last year's 3007WFP model, which we liked, the 3008WFP features a new look and loads more connections. The image here doesn't do it justice, but the 3008WFP has a brushed aluminum housing that sits atop a glossy, flat base (say goodbye to the Flying V stand of last year's model). And the cantilever arm allows for more flexible positioning.

Our biggest complaint with last year's model was the limited … Read more