The DVI Splitter

The DVI splitter is a somewhat tricky device to figure out. A simple inspection of the standard Y-splitter suggests that this cable could not be any simpler to understand. You have a single DVI end that splits into two separate output cables, often also DVI. What could be easier to understand? It isn’t until you try and get one of these splitters to work that you begin to run into difficulty.

The first thing that you have to ask yourself before purchasing this sort of device is: Does A DVI Splitter Cable Even Work? We have hopefully written a fairly comprehensive guide to help you understand the various requirements of successfully splitting your DVI signal into your various outputs. And we can tell you with some conclusion that yes you can get these cables to work for you. There are certainly some good tips you must follow for it work, but if you meet the requirements, you can successfully integrate this into your system.

It is important to understand a little bit about DVI before you try to split it. The Digital Visual Interface standard was created by the Digital Display Work Group or the DDWG. It was designed to replace the legacy analog VGA standard of previous years. HDMI has since begun its quest to surpass the DVI standard, allowing integration of audio into the cable as well as video.

DVI comes in three distinct flavors as well. DVI-D represents the digital signal, DVI-A represents analog, and DVI-I (Integrated) represents an integration of both the digital and analog streams. It is important to understand that DVI-I can facilitate either digital or analog, not both simultaneously. See our article on DVI-D Splitter versus DVI-I Splitter for more information on these distinctions.

To identify the various cable types, use the following table on the right as a visual representation of each type. This is image is courtesy of the WikiMedia Commons and details of the copyright can be found here.

Official specifications for DVI cables mandate an operating length of up to 5 meters or roughly 16 ½ feet. Although cables are specified to this length, successful operation can still occur at longer distances. If you require longer runs than 20 feet, you should consider HDMI for digital, and VGA for analog runs.

When attempting to split your DVI signal, you have a number of different conversion options. Ranging from Y-splitters to powered converters, the option you choose will depend on a number of factors. Your existing equipment, for better or worse, will have the biggest influence on the type of adapter that you require. For a list of the common types of DVI video splitter and their uses, see our article titled The Different Types Of DVI Video Splitter.

One of the most common misconceptions about splitting DVI into dual devices is in regards to the output device. DVI also comes in separate forms for all types, single link and dual link. In order to output to two separate devices through a Y-cable, your output device must be able to support dual link mode. Although this seems easy enough to figure out, the labeling on your video card is not always consistent. Dual link does not mean that your card has two connectors, but that the single connector is capable of sending out two separate signals.

Another common need many have for DVI splitters is adapting the signal to VGA. As stated above, VGA is a legacy analog signal, and requires either DVI-I or A to work. If you need to convert your DVI-D signal to analog, this must be done with a converter and will not work from a Y-splitter. A DVI to VGA splitter is usually from an Integrated connector and allows you to send identical signals to both VGA devices.

Whenever you split a signal, you must recognize that the same output is sent to both displays. As such, you will have much more consistent and predictable results if you use two similar if not identical displays to output to. Both devices should be able support the same resolution and refresh rates.

Whatever your need, you should be able to come up with the right DVI splitter solution that works. Each case is different and everyone’s results will vary. There are many different details that go into making this work or fail, it is difficult to state conclusively if it will work for you. If you can find the right DVI splitter, you should be able to save considerably over the cost of a DVI converter (though it may not be worth the hassle to find out).

Other DVI Splitters From Amazon:

DVI Digital Dual Link Splitter Cable - DVI-D Male / DVI-D Female x 2(There are many type of DVI connectors, please call us at 1-888-275-8755 to make sure this cable is right for you before ordering). Our DVI Y cable pr... Read More >

Cables Unlimited DVI-D Splitter Cable (PCM-2260)Our DVI Y cable provides a fast and easy way to simultaneously connect 2 monitors to a 1 computer. This shielded cable feature gold plated contacts to provide crystal clear video transmissions.With support for high-resolution images, this cable is perfect for public broadcasts.

Genuine ATI X1300 Pro 256MB PCI-Express Video Graphics Card With DVI and VGA Y-Splitter Cable Cords, Compatible Dell Part Number: GJ501Genuine ATI X1300 Pro 256MB PCI-e Video Card with 1 DVI and 1 VGA Y-Splitter Cables Dell Part Number: GJ501. Features: Interface: PCI-E, Memory: 256MB, Full Height, Model # GJ501, Dual DVI Capability DMS-59, S-Video, Comes With 1 DVI Y-Splitter Cable & 1 VGA Y-Splitter Cable.

StarTech.com 1-Feet DVI-D to 2x DVI-D Digital Video Splitter Cable - M/F (DVISPL1DD)This 1ft DVI-D Digital video splitter cable lets you connect two DVI-D capable monitors/displays to a single DVI-D digital video output port. A cost effective solution for dual DVI display configurations, this high quality splitter cable is backed by StarTech.com's Lifetime Warranty.

HDMI to Dual DVI Premium Splitter CableHDMI to Dual DVI-D (Digital) Y Splitter

DVI Splitter Cable - Premium Double shielded with Gold Plated ConnectorsThis Premium Gold Series DVI-D Y Splitter Cable allows you to connect the DVI port of your computer or other video devices (such as DVD players) to 2 displays (such as HDTVs or Projectors). It is constructed with UL Listed double shielded cable to support high video resolutions.

There are countless different ways to split your DVI signal to your different display devices. Determining the best fit will go a long way to ensuring you have a good purchasing experience. We recommend that you figure out what you need before you buy, as purchasing a DVI video splitter can be a tricky process. We’ve laid out several of the more common types of DVI splitters available on the market, though this list is certainly not comprehensive.

• DVI-D Splitter – This splitter is one of the more commonly requested splitters and is intended to split your digital DVI signal into two identical digital DVI signals. Because this type is digital, it is unable to convert to an analog VGA device. Most of the newer displays on the market today, namely LCDs, projectors, flat-screen televisions, etc… are all digital media and require either DVI-D, DVI-I, or HDMI.
• DVI-I Splitter – The DVI-I splitter is able to split the signal into either dual analog or dual digital outputs, although it cannot do both simultaneously. This works similarly to the DVI-D splitter, with the added ability to output to two identical analog display types. You cannot split an Integrated signal into one digital and one analog, it has to be either or.
• DVI-A Splitter – This type of splitter is less common, as its usefulness is limited to strictly analog signals, and is often replaced by a DVI-I splitter when available. When the output device requires a DVI-A connector, you can split this signal into two identical analog signals.
• DVI to VGA and DVI – This type of DVI splitter allows you to output the DVI signal into both an analog VGA output and an analog DVI output. Some adapters will allow analog VGA and digital DVI, although not at the same time. This style only functions on one half of the Y, depending on which side is activated.
• DVI to Dual VGA – The most common way to do this type of conversion is with a DVI-I connection being adapted to two VGA connectors. The DVI-I can handle the required analog signal and passes the duplicate stream to both VGA connectors.
• DVI to Dual DVI – Another common splitter allow you to convert a digital DVI stream into two identical digital signals, outputting a mirrored image onto both devices. This usually works best with similar output displays, as the same resolution and image is sent to both devices.
• DVI to HDMI – As the digital industry continues to evolve, more and more devices are picking up HDMI as the digital medium of choice. The HDMI cable is capable of sending audio as well as video, and is thus replacing DVI. A common feature of many DVI to HDMI splitters is an integration with a separate audio source into the HDMI cable.
• Converters – Almost without fail, a powered converter is going to be more reliable and consistent than DVI video splitter cables. The converter can effectively convert digital to analog and has sufficient signal strength to successful output the intended images. Many cables require an amplifier to reach the same signal strength.

Aside from these various types of DVI splitting devices, there are a number of other criteria that must be met if you go the route of a DVI video splitter over a converter.  Be sure to learn the requirements of the individual cable, and determine if you equipment is capable of handling it.  The comments section of the various online stores is a great place to learn about the unexpected additional requirements that  you may face.

Other DVI Splitters From Amazon:

StarTech.com 1-Feet DVI-D to 2x DVI-D Digital Video Splitter Cable - M/F (DVISPL1DD)This 1ft DVI-D Digital video splitter cable lets you connect two DVI-D capable monitors/displays to a single DVI-D digital video output port. A cost effective solution for dual DVI display configurations, this high quality splitter cable is backed by StarTech.com's Lifetime Warranty.

Tripp Lite B116-002A 2-Port DVI Single Link Video Audio Splitter/BoosterWith Tripp Lite's 2-Port DVI-D Video/Audio Splitter, you can display the same image from one computer on two DVI enabled monitors and speakers. Cascad... Read More >

Cables Unlimited DVI-D Splitter Cable (PCM-2260)Our DVI Y cable provides a fast and easy way to simultaneously connect 2 monitors to a 1 computer. This shielded cable feature gold plated contacts to provide crystal clear video transmissions.With support for high-resolution images, this cable is perfect for public broadcasts.

DVI Splitter Cable - Premium Double shielded with Gold Plated ConnectorsThis Premium Gold Series DVI-D Y Splitter Cable allows you to connect the DVI port of your computer or other video devices (such as DVD players) to 2 displays (such as HDTVs or Projectors). It is constructed with UL Listed double shielded cable to support high video resolutions.

Genuine ATI X1300 Pro 256MB PCI-Express Video Graphics Card With DVI and VGA Y-Splitter Cable Cords, Compatible Dell Part Number: GJ501Genuine ATI X1300 Pro 256MB PCI-e Video Card with 1 DVI and 1 VGA Y-Splitter Cables Dell Part Number: GJ501. Features: Interface: PCI-E, Memory: 256MB, Full Height, Model # GJ501, Dual DVI Capability DMS-59, S-Video, Comes With 1 DVI Y-Splitter Cable & 1 VGA Y-Splitter Cable.

HDMI to Dual DVI Premium Splitter CableHDMI to Dual DVI-D (Digital) Y Splitter

A DVI to VGA splitter is one of the trickier devices to figure out. There are several alternatives to adapting your DVI signal to VGA, with certainly some types better than others. A number of straight Y-cables make their way around the different online shops, though these particular adapters must meet some pretty strict requirements to work. It important that you figure out if you fit into the guidelines of this type of splitter before you try and make it work. Often a powered DVI to VGA converter will work better for you in almost every regard, though if you can make it work with the splitter, it will be much cheaper.

There are a number of different ways to go about splitting a DVI connector into VGA outputs, but it is important to recognize the different restrictions of each method. The first requirement to convert any DVI signal into a VGA signal is the type of DVI output. VGA is an analog signal and cannot handle a digital signal stream. In order for this conversion to work, one of two things needs to happen.

The first option is to use a DVI to VGA converter to convert a digital signal to an analog signal. This will allow you to output to your VGA display, with fairly minimal data loss. There will be some data degradation, though this is hard to get around.

The second option is available depending on your output device (computer, DVD player, etc…). Not all DVI connections are created equal. There are three distinct types of DVI cable, DVI-D, DVI-I, and DVI-A, representing Digital, Integrated (digital and analog), and Analog respectively. You cannot simply use a DVI D to VGA splitter to get the results you want. This sort of cable simply won’t work. To go from DVI-D, a digital signal, you must convert the signal to analog first.

The other two types of DVI to VGA slitter cables should work however. Both Integrated and Analog are capable of inherently sending an analog signal required by the VGA device. Before you attempt to make this work, you should first determine the type of DVI your video card supports. See the DVI splitter chart on the homepage to get an indication of how to identify the various types of cable.

Once you have figured out the logistics of splitting your signal to you VGA display, you still have a couple more variables to consider. If you were hoping to use a DVI to 2 VGA splitter with your computer, there are some restrictions you should first be aware of. It is a common misconception that this sort of Y-cable will allow you to extend your desktop onto two monitors. At best it will allow you the ability to duplicate the image onto both displays. This always works best on the same display types, preferably the same model and size of monitor.

Further, the DVI output must be a dual channel output. This means that the card sends out dual signal from the same port, it does not indicate that the port can handle two separate screens. DVI cards come in both single and dual, and can sometimes be quite tricky to figure out which types they are. The most common way to do this split is with a DVI I to VGA splitter, as this is more common than DVI-A video cards. As DVI is most advantageous in digital settings, the DVI-A does not often make sense.

Other DVI Splitters From Amazon:

StarTech.com 1-Feet DVI-D to 2x DVI-D Digital Video Splitter Cable - M/F (DVISPL1DD)This 1ft DVI-D Digital video splitter cable lets you connect two DVI-D capable monitors/displays to a single DVI-D digital video output port. A cost effective solution for dual DVI display configurations, this high quality splitter cable is backed by StarTech.com's Lifetime Warranty.

Dell Molex DMS-59 Dual DVI Y-Splitter Cable, Refurbished H9361Cable connections: One (1) DMS 59 pin (male) and two (2) DVI (female connectors). Cable is approximately 8 inches in length.

The DMS-59 connecto... Read More >

HDMI to Dual DVI Premium Splitter CableHDMI to Dual DVI-D (Digital) Y Splitter

Tripp Lite P120-001-2 Adapter/Splitter Cable - DVI-A M to (x2) HD15 F1FT HDMI DVI M/F TO 2XVGA Cablsplitter Adapter Analog .It has a Double shielded and fully molded construction.It has a Tripp Lite Lifetime warrant.

DVI Digital Dual Link Splitter Cable - DVI-D Male / DVI-D Female x 2(There are many type of DVI connectors, please call us at 1-888-275-8755 to make sure this cable is right for you before ordering). Our DVI Y cable pr... Read More >

Genuine ATI X1300 Pro 256MB PCI-Express Video Graphics Card With DVI and VGA Y-Splitter Cable Cords, Compatible Dell Part Number: GJ501Genuine ATI X1300 Pro 256MB PCI-e Video Card with 1 DVI and 1 VGA Y-Splitter Cables Dell Part Number: GJ501. Features: Interface: PCI-E, Memory: 256MB, Full Height, Model # GJ501, Dual DVI Capability DMS-59, S-Video, Comes With 1 DVI Y-Splitter Cable & 1 VGA Y-Splitter Cable.

For those of us that are technologically impaired, or simply just too lazy to care about the different types of cables on the market, the different types of DVI splitter and cables can be quite overwhelming. DVI-D splitters, DVI-I splitters, and even DVI-A splitters are available on the market, though trying to figure out which one you need can be quite a task.

When the different types of Digital Visual Interface (DVI) types are broken down, they begin to make much more sense. You’ll have the right cable figured out in no time, and can go back to blissful ignorance of all things tech.

DVI-D Splitter

The DVI-D is the interface that deals with digital signals (hence the D). It is capable of connecting a computer with a DVI out port with a digital monitor, LCD, projector, or HDTV. The bottom line is it allows you to connect one digital device to another. This standard was implemented by the DDWG (Digital Display Working Group) in order to facilitate cleaner, faster, and sharper imaging on digital devices.

Most video card companies and many computer monitor manufacturers have implemented the DVI standard as their medium of choice. Although some high-end electronics also implemented DVI, the majority have switched to HDMI cabling. HDMI allows both a digital video to be sent as well as audio along the same cable. The lack of audio, among other factors, is influencing the industry towards HDMI.

DVI-A Splitter

The opposite of the DVI-D technology is the DVI-A technology. DVI-A splitters are in reference to the analog signal (hence the A). They are only capable of sending analog and cannot facilitate the needs of digital devices. This type of cable is designed to connect to older CRT monitors or cheaper LCD screens.

Analog signal is most often associated with a VGA cable and as such, a DVI-A splitter converts the signal to analog. This results in a degree of quality loss due to the conversion.

DVI-I Splitter

The big mystery DVI-I splitter cable is a type that Integrates both digital and analog signals through one cable. This means that the cable can be used between two digital devices or two analog devices. What it does not do, however, is allow you to connect a digital device to an analog device, or vice versa.

Because the device can facilitate analog types, a common splitter is a DVI I to VGA splitter. These splitters allow you to connect to similar VGA devices to the same output, displaying duplicate content on both screens.

So Which Cable Do I Use?

Let’s see if we can tie this concept together now. If you have two devices with DVI-D connectors, then you would use a DVI-D cable. If you have two devices that have DVI-A connectors, then you would use a DVI-A cable. Connecting DVI to VGA is done with either a DVI to VGA cable or adapter, dependent upon whether your DVI output support analog. And finally, if you have two DVI-I connectors, you can use a DVI-I cable, or any other of the cable types for that matter. Again, being able to support both analog and digital does not mean that this can be done simultaneously. You will instead need to use an electronic converter box to convert the signal from one to the other.

Other DVI Splitters From Amazon:

DVI Digital Dual Link Splitter Cable - DVI-D Male / DVI-D Female x 2(There are many type of DVI connectors, please call us at 1-888-275-8755 to make sure this cable is right for you before ordering). Our DVI Y cable pr... Read More >

Cables Unlimited DVI-D Splitter Cable (PCM-2260)Our DVI Y cable provides a fast and easy way to simultaneously connect 2 monitors to a 1 computer. This shielded cable feature gold plated contacts to provide crystal clear video transmissions.With support for high-resolution images, this cable is perfect for public broadcasts.

Tripp Lite P120-001-2 Adapter/Splitter Cable - DVI-A M to (x2) HD15 F1FT HDMI DVI M/F TO 2XVGA Cablsplitter Adapter Analog .It has a Double shielded and fully molded construction.It has a Tripp Lite Lifetime warrant.

DVI Splitter Cable - Premium Double shielded with Gold Plated ConnectorsThis Premium Gold Series DVI-D Y Splitter Cable allows you to connect the DVI port of your computer or other video devices (such as DVD players) to 2 displays (such as HDTVs or Projectors). It is constructed with UL Listed double shielded cable to support high video resolutions.

HDMI to Dual DVI Premium Splitter CableHDMI to Dual DVI-D (Digital) Y Splitter

Tripp Lite B116-002A 2-Port DVI Single Link Video Audio Splitter/BoosterWith Tripp Lite's 2-Port DVI-D Video/Audio Splitter, you can display the same image from one computer on two DVI enabled monitors and speakers. Cascad... Read More >

The DVI splitter cable is great concept when it works. The problem is that it often doesn’t work. Dvi splitter cables are designed to allow you to connect your computer or other device with a DVI port to two distinct displays. These can be anything from two desktop monitors, to two projectors or televisions.

The typical DVI splitter cable splits a male DVI D connector into two DVI D female ends. We’ll talk about the distinction between the different DVI types (DVI I splitter cable and DVI D splitter cable) at another point. Briefly it refers to the difference between being able to send to digital and analog devices.

Before you rush out to try and use a DVI video splitter cable, make sure you understand what you are getting yourself into. As stated above, if used correctly and with the right specifications, the DVI y-splitter works great. It is definitely worth noting that this type of cable is not intended to provide you with two distinct workspaces and cannot extend your desktop so you have more room to work.

This cable is strictly used to split the same output onto two similar devices. The image will be the same for both, so you are not really increasing your desktop real estate any. A large part of what I just mentioned will usually make a big difference into whether the cable works for you or not. You generally must output your display to two very similar displays for the cable to work.

Further, your device (usually your computer) will need to have a card that supports dual DVI, a feature that can be tricky to figure out. This does not mean that your video card has two DVI ports, but that the single DVI port on your video card can support dual monitors. This single port sends out dual signals to the two monitors. Most often, the DVI splitter cable defines a primary and secondary end to the cable, although this may not be physically apparent. You may need to experiment with the cable end to determine if there is a primary branch of the Y.

Another difficulty that can occur with this type of passive DVI splitter cable is that the signal often needs to be boosted by an amplifier. As stated, this type of splitter is passive because it does not need power to operate. Sometimes the addition of a signal booster is enough to push the signal cleanly to both displays.

The real beauty of the DVI splitter cable is that the price is exceptionally small for the cable. If you can figure out how to make it work for your purposes, you will save quite a bit of money. This alone often makes it worth experimenting with the splitter cable to see if it will work for you.

Look for a quality cable with gold connectors. Gold connectors generally provide maximum corrosion resistance and give you the best chance of error-free data transfers. This is important for a clean streak free image, and the highest quality image you can send.

The real advantage to the DVI splitter cable is that when it work, it works great (and the price is definitely right). The disadvantage of the device is that all of the variables seldom line up to allow this splitter to work properly.

Other DVI Splitters From Amazon:

HDMI to Dual DVI Premium Splitter CableHDMI to Dual DVI-D (Digital) Y Splitter

Dell Molex DMS-59 Dual DVI Y-Splitter Cable, Refurbished H9361Cable connections: One (1) DMS 59 pin (male) and two (2) DVI (female connectors). Cable is approximately 8 inches in length.

The DMS-59 connecto... Read More >

Tripp Lite B116-002A 2-Port DVI Single Link Video Audio Splitter/BoosterWith Tripp Lite's 2-Port DVI-D Video/Audio Splitter, you can display the same image from one computer on two DVI enabled monitors and speakers. Cascad... Read More >

Tripp Lite P120-001-2 Adapter/Splitter Cable - DVI-A M to (x2) HD15 F1FT HDMI DVI M/F TO 2XVGA Cablsplitter Adapter Analog .It has a Double shielded and fully molded construction.It has a Tripp Lite Lifetime warrant.

Cables Unlimited DVI-D Splitter Cable (PCM-2260)Our DVI Y cable provides a fast and easy way to simultaneously connect 2 monitors to a 1 computer. This shielded cable feature gold plated contacts to provide crystal clear video transmissions.With support for high-resolution images, this cable is perfect for public broadcasts.

DVI Digital Dual Link Splitter Cable - DVI-D Male / DVI-D Female x 2(There are many type of DVI connectors, please call us at 1-888-275-8755 to make sure this cable is right for you before ordering). Our DVI Y cable pr... Read More >