For those looking to get the very best performance out of their video gear, the standard of DVI (Digital Visual Interface) is highly regarded in the industry. DVI is a connection standard developed by the Digital Display Working Group consortium (DDWG) that is designed to deliver the highest quality video signals to high definition TV’s, digital monitors and DLP projectors by sending video signals uncompressed without any degradation.

DVI on Fiber is the method of sending high quality, uncompressed signals through fiber optic cables (usually for moderate to long distances). Fiber optic cables are generally made out of extremely thin glass type rods that send signals via light pulses instead of electricity. DVI fibers are generally used for pro amateur and professional audio and video set ups to maintain extremely high quality reproduction. Two main reasons why DVI is used on fiber is that, it can send lots of information quickly- commonly referred to as high bandwidth and that there is low loss of signal when traveling far distances.

DVI on Fiber for High Bandwidth

DVI was designed to send large amounts of data. It has the ability to send both single streams of data and dual streams of data. In a single stream of data, DVI can send a digital video stream at up to 3.7 Gbits/s, with a dual video stream, it is possible to send up to 7.4 Gbits/s or more. This means that you can get the most out of your current video equipment (e.g. DVD player) allowing your display to show incredibly high quality images. The more data your display is able to receive, usually the more detailed an image will be, thus DVI on fiber gives most users an extremely thick pipeline to send digital video signals to moderate and high end displays that are able to reproduce quality images.

DVI on Fiber for Low Loss of Signal

Another very important reason many high end components use DVI on fiber is to send high quality video signals over far distances without any degradation. It should be noted that with certain types of cables (e.g. copper) distances of as little as 15 feet can have an effect on signal strength which ultimately means that your digital signal will be degraded. For high quality signals 15 feet or more, many videophiles use DVI on fiber optic cables. Fiber optic cables do not use electricity, but pulses of light to send data. Since light can travel extremely far distances without any practical degradation, DVI on fiber is a popular choice.

DVI on Fiber Considerations

It should be noted that in general, fiber optic cables should avoid sharp turns or corners when installed. Usually, the best way to minimize signal degradation is with a relatively straight path from video device to display screen. Another consideration one should have is that DVI on fiber optic cables is generally much more expensive than other types of cables (e.g. copper). However, for those that require the ultimate in visual quality, DVI on fiber optic cables is an excellent choice.

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