What is the difference between a DVI-to-HDMI adapter and a HDMI-DVI cable/converter?

[Mugenx]

Well, I just got a new graphics card. It is a MSI Twin Frozr(R7950). HD, of course. My tv, which doubles as a monitor, is an Emerson. Which is HD compatible. I tried to do a direct plug in with my HDMI, but that is not working. Now, here is where I am getting confused. On Emerson's booklet that comes with my tv, it says " PC input via HDMI; With PC input you can use your TV as a PC monitor via a HDMI-DVI cable/converter." And on the booklet that came with my graphics card it says, "Enabling HDMI Output; Attach a DVI-to-HDMI adapter." So what should I get? Is there a difference between a DVI-to-HDMI adapter and a HDMI-DVI cable/converter? Also, I feel I should say, this TV is all I am using as my monitor. I have no other monitor. Just the TV. So it's not like I am connecting from the monitor to the tv. It's from the tv to the graphics card(computer). I would appreciate anyones help.

 

[bigpinkdragon286]

HDMI actually uses the older DVI signaling for the video feed. There really isn't any conversion taking place, just an adapting of plug ends. HDMI on the other hand has extra connectivity for things such as audio and networking, and has the extra overhead of HDCP encryption.

As per your question, what's the difference between a DVI to HDMI cable and an DVI to HDMI adapter? Not much. The cable is a single piece solution, the adapter is a two piece solution. With the cable you have a DVI on one end that attaches to the DVI of your graphics card, and the other end is HDMI for attachment to your television. The DVI to HDMI adapter simply adapts the DVI output of your graphics card to allow a standard HDMI cable to be plugged in. I generally opt for the DVI to HDMI adapter (2 piece solution) as it allows any standard HDMI cable to be used at that point. If you somehow end up with a defective HDMI cable, it's easier to find a replacement for, rather than tracking down another DVI to HDMI cable. 🙂