Video Connectors - From SCART to DisplayPort 2.1
Five decades of screen evolution in one overview: from the analog SCART (1977) and VGA (1987) to digital DVI, HDMI 2.1 (8K) and DisplayPort 2.1 (16K).
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The history of video connectors mirrors 50 years of display evolution. Analog connectors (SCART, VGA) dominated the analog tube era; the transition to digital flat panels brought DVI; modern displays use HDMI for consumer AV and DisplayPort for workstations.
Video Connectors at a Glance
Direct Comparison Table
| Connector |
Year |
Signal |
Max resolution |
Audio |
Today |
| SCART | 1977 | analog FBAS / RGB | 576i (PAL) | Stereo analog | Retro / industry |
| VGA | 1987 | analog RGBHV | 2048 x 1536 | None | Beamer / industry |
| DVI Dual Link | 1999 | digital TMDS | 2560 x 1600 @ 60 | None (DVI-D) | Workstation |
| HDMI 2.1 | 2017 | digital TMDS / FRL | 8K @ 60 / 4K @ 120 | eARC, Atmos | Consumer / TV |
| DisplayPort 2.1 | 2022 | digital packetised | 16K @ 60 | Yes | Workstation / GPU |
Frequently Asked Questions
HDMI vs DisplayPort - which one for a workstation?
DisplayPort is the workstation default - higher bandwidth (80 Gbit/s vs 48), MST daisy-chaining and royalty-free. HDMI is the consumer default - eARC, CEC, TV compatibility. For 16K only DisplayPort 2.1.
Is a SCART-to-HDMI converter passive?
No. SCART is analog, HDMI digital - an active converter with power supply and an ADC + scaler is required. Passive cables only convert pin geometry, not signals.
Why does the office still use VGA?
VGA remains rock-solid for projectors, industrial monitors and machine HMIs. Cable length up to 30 m without active boost, robust analog signalling, no licensing. Good enough for 1080p signage and presentations.
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Procurement: Phone +49 7666 88499-0 · sales@industry-electronics.com · B2B pricing, custom assemblies on request.
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