Intel and several other computer corporations have recently agreed to develop a new display interface for computers, aimed at connecting to high-resolution digital screens.
The new interface standard is named UDI SIG, with hopes of replacing the old VGA standard due to its new connection technology that supports HD (high-definition) video content. Companies like Intel, Apple, Nvidia, Silicon Image, Samsung Electronics, and Foxconn Electronics have agreed to support the UDI SIG standard.
Over the years, PC manufacturers have made significant efforts to improve the quality of consumer electronics. A prime example of this effort is Microsoft with its Windows XP Media Center Edition operating system, and Intel with the upcoming Viiv PC technology, which aims to transform the PC into a home entertainment hub. If these technologies are widely implemented, a new display standard will be necessary to allow budget PCs with simple graphics technology to send content to HD TVs and displays.
Modern PCs equipped with high-end graphics chipsets like Nvidia typically use DVI (Digital Visual Interface) to connect to digital screens. On the other hand, HD TVs utilize a standard called HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) to receive sharp images from set-top boxes. These two standards are fully compatible; however, HDMI includes additional features, such as universal remote control (URC) functionality and the ability to handle multiple transmissions over a single cable.
Nevertheless, many budget PCs still rely on the analog VGA standard to connect to displays. VGA is sufficient for PC users who browse the web or perform other simple tasks, but a DVI connection is necessary for viewing videos on digital screens.
UDI SIG promises to deliver many features and functionalities similar to HDMI. UDI will utilize the same HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) technology currently used by HDMI and DVI and will be compatible with existing display standards. Naturally, UDI-equipped computers will interact seamlessly with HDMI TVs and DVI digital displays.
Details regarding the UDI SIG standard are expected to be finalized and sent to hardware manufacturers by the first quarter of 2006.
