Graphics card to display 4k question.

Mysteryman2000

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Oct 30, 2012
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I'm trying to remember but it has been a while. I have 2x GTX 980TI LIGHTNING build setup in my computer right now. But I can only use DVI for the highest resolution and for 3D on my current screen. I'm wondering if it matters if I use DVI or the HDMI/Display port on the graphics card to get 4K or is the ability to get 4K on a specific port based on the display?
 
Solution
Well, there are some limitations here and there, but the skinny on it is as follows for 4k support:

HDMI: HDMI 1.4 will do 4k, but is limited to a maximum of 30fps. That applies to either games or video content, as that's the maximum that it can refresh the screen at. If your 980ti has HDMI 2.0, and your TV supports HDMI 2.0, then you can do 4k @ 60fps.

DVI: There are several flavors of DVI, from DVI-A (analog), to DVI-I (mixed output pins) to DVI-D, and DVI-D DL (Dual Link). In general, DVI in a single link format can only do a maximum of 1920x1200 @ 60fps, DVI Dual Link can do up to 2560x1600 @ 60fps, it would require (don't ask me how this would connect) - two DUAL LINK DVI cable setup for 4k @ 60fps.

DisplayPort: DisplayPort...
Well, there are some limitations here and there, but the skinny on it is as follows for 4k support:

HDMI: HDMI 1.4 will do 4k, but is limited to a maximum of 30fps. That applies to either games or video content, as that's the maximum that it can refresh the screen at. If your 980ti has HDMI 2.0, and your TV supports HDMI 2.0, then you can do 4k @ 60fps.

DVI: There are several flavors of DVI, from DVI-A (analog), to DVI-I (mixed output pins) to DVI-D, and DVI-D DL (Dual Link). In general, DVI in a single link format can only do a maximum of 1920x1200 @ 60fps, DVI Dual Link can do up to 2560x1600 @ 60fps, it would require (don't ask me how this would connect) - two DUAL LINK DVI cable setup for 4k @ 60fps.

DisplayPort: DisplayPort v 1.2 can do 4k @ 60fps. However, TVs generally don't have display port connections, those are only found in 4k monitors, so it depends on what you're connecting the computer to.

Hope that helps sort it out.
 
Solution


Ah - well it shouldn't be a problem then, as most of the current hardware being released will have the latest specs - HDMI 2.0 has actually been around for a year or so now, so it's 'current'. Of course, as always verify it before you drop the $$.

 

Gillerer

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Sep 23, 2013
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Either HDMI 2.0 or DP 1.2 will do UHD 4k @60, but if the monitor supports G-Sync (and you want to use it), you need to use DisplayPort. It's at these low (40 - 60 Hz) refresh rates that you benefit from G-Sync the most.

Aside from that, now is maybe not the best time to purchase a 4K display. New 120 Hz 4K displays should arrive early next year - or maybe even before the end of this year.