Mini DisplayPort

What does Mini DisplayPort mean?

Mini DisplayPort (mDP) is a compact digital video interface developed by Apple in 2008. It is a miniaturized version of the full-Size DisplayPort, with a thinner and more compact connector design. mDP transmits both audio and video signals over a single cable, supporting high-resolution displays and multi-monitor setups.

The mDP connector measures approximately 16mm by 8mm, significantly smaller than the standard DisplayPort connector, which is 24mm by 16mm. This reduced size enables the integration of mDP into slim and portable devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

mDP utilizes a 20-pin interface that supports DisplayPort 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, and 1.4 specifications. It provides a maximum resolution of 4096 x 2160 at 60Hz and supports up to eight channels of audio. mDP is backward compatible with standard DisplayPort connectors using an adapter.

Applications

Mini DisplayPort is widely used in various Electronic devices, including:

• Laptops and Ultrabooks: mDP’s compact size and high-resolution support make it an ideal video interface for slim and portable laptops and ultrabooks.
• Tablets and Smartphones: mDP enables tablets and smartphones to connect to External displays for extended screen mirroring or productivity tasks.
• All-in-One Computers: mDP provides a clean and seamless connection between all-in-one computers and external monitors.
• Desktop Graphics Cards: Some desktop graphics cards feature mDP outputs for multi-monitor configurations or connecting to high-resolution displays.
• Projectors and Televisions: mDP-equipped projectors and televisions provide a convenient way to display content from laptops and other devices.

History

Mini DisplayPort was introduced by Apple in 2008 as a more compact alternative to the standard DisplayPort connector. It was initially used in the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro laptops. Other manufacturers quickly adopted mDP, and it became a popular video interface for thin and portable devices.

In 2010, the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) Released the first version of the Mini DisplayPort specification, defining the Physical interface and signaling protocol. Subsequent versions of the specification have introduced support for higher resolutions, audio formats, and multi-stream capabilities.

Today, mDP continues to be widely used in various electronic devices, including laptops, tablets, smartphones, desktop computers, and displays. It remains a popular choice for connecting high-resolution displays and enabling multi-monitor setups.