11-02-2008, 09:06 PM

Hey guys, I'm reading a lot about the new MBP's coming out and I'm seeing a few different display ports. The new MB has "mini display port" the old MB has "mini DVI" (or something), and my MBP (2 years old) has a standard DVI port.

I want to know if there's any difference in any of these ports? Or if they just differ physically?

11-02-2008, 09:35 PM

Yes indeed, they are different.

DVI - the current industry standard for digital video. The MacBook Pro has a dual link (or full) DVI port which is able to power a 30" display.

Mini-DVI - shaped differently from the full DVI. Carries half the bandwidth and can power a 24" digital display.

Mini DisplayPort - a brand new technology for video. It can carries a lot of video bandwidth, allowing even the smallest MacBook to power upto a 30" display. I don't know where one gets a full DisplayPort though.
Note that the DisplayPort is also capable of carrying an audio signal, much like HDMI ports on consumer electronics.

Mini DisplayPort to DVI connectors are available from Apple. They are needed should you want to connect any external monitor other than the new 24" Apple LED Display.

Any particular reason for this question?

11-03-2008, 12:17 AM

Wow thanks a lot man for clearing that up. I was looking into upgrading to one of the new MBP's. I think I'm going to wait for the 17" to come out, that's what I have now. I actually used the DVI to HDMI on my HDTV and it works amazing. One of the only ways to truly get 1080P.