Digital Video Interface (DVI) cables may be an option if you need to connect computer monitors or HDTVs for your business. DVI primarily carries uncompressed digital data to a digital display. In practice, DVI most often connects computers, cable boxes and DVD players to digital displays, projectors and HDTVs. Since DVI carries a digital signal, it's a better option than analog component and VGA connections.

Before you run out and buy DVI cable in bulk, however, be aware that there is another, newer cable interface on the block: High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) carries the same digital video signal as DVI, but it also carries digital audio signals and incorporates High Definition Content Protection (HDCP), a type of digital content protection. DVI and HDMI are not directly compatible; however, there are DVI to HDMI cables and HDMI to DVI cables that carry video signals only.

There are actually three different DVI connections: DVI A cables (analog), DVI D cables (digital), and DVI I cables(integrated). DVI I cables transmit analog and digital signals and are the most common cable.

1. Educate yourself about connectors and inventory your equipment.

2. Inventory your equipment to determine DVI compatibility.

3. Consider length requirements and cable type.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get DVI cable information and learn more about video connection options

Take advantage of online sources to educate yourself about your connection options. Digital is best, and getting audio along with video--as with HDMI--is great, but if you're not transmitting audio you don't really need the audio signal that HDMI gives you. It comes down to what you're using the equipment for and what connector options the equipment has. Arm yourself with DVI cables information before shopping DVI cables stores.

I recommend: Data Pro has a good primer on DVI technology. My Cable Mart and DVI Gear provide cable and connectivity information and sell a wide variety of cables.

Buy DVI and DVI to HDMI cables online for the best options

Now that you're loaded with DVI cables information and understand what the various cables (HDMI, DVI, HDMI to DVI, DVI to HDMI, VGA) and connectors (HDMI, DVI I, DVI D, DVI A) do, you can choose the most logical connection solution for your video sources and video display devices.

I recommend: Websites like RAM Electronics and Mono Price may be helpful.

Make a list and buy the appropriate DVI cables online

Audio, video and computer cables tend to be much cheaper online than in brick-and-mortar stores. Specialty cable websites, in particular, have all manner of connectors--DVI D 24 pin cables, HDMI DVI cables, DVI D cables, DVI/DVI cable--in every length at a fraction of typical retail prices.

I recommend: Try DVI cables stores like Computer Cable Store, Cables To Go or Cable Wholesale.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Save time and money by having your list of DVI cables ready when you start shopping and by buying them all at the same place.