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    Ports for connecting laptop to external screen.

    Discussion in 'Accessories' started by Audiophil92, Sep 23, 2010.

  1. Audiophil92

    Audiophil92 Notebook Evangelist

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    Which ports can one use to connect a laptop to an external screen at 1920x1080 resolution?

    I just bought an M15X, and am looking to buy a Dell Ultrasharp U2211H screen:

    Dell Ultrasharp U2211H 21.5" Widescreen Flat Panel Monitor - Black

    Unfortunately, the screen doesnt have an HDMI port, so was wondering what other connection options are available

    tl;dr can I use the U2211H screen with an alienware m15x?
     
    Audiophil92, Sep 23, 2010
    #1
  2. Crimsoned

    Crimsoned Notebook Deity

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    Under specs on the dell website for the M15X
    Ports:
    Alienware M15x Laptop Product Details | Dell

    You can use the VGA or Display port. However for HDCP content you need to use the Display Port, or use an adapter for the vga or display port to connect to the DVI or HDMI.

    Display Port max Res:
    2560x1600 at 60 Hz (Limited by bandwidth but apparently GPU's are presently GPU's are stuck at 2560x1600 per ramdac)
    HD-15 Sub:
    Limited by bandwidth. However it's reported past 2000x1000 it's better left to DVI for image quality purposes because HD-15's bandwidth is reached and quality deteriorates.
     
    Crimsoned, Sep 23, 2010
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  3. Thierry19

    Thierry19 Coffee enthusiast

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    I'd suggest you to use the display port. Thought you'll have to buy one, since it doesnt come in the box. Else you can settle with a VGA connection, but the a Full HD res like that, the display port will give you better performance..
     
    Thierry19, Sep 23, 2010
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  4. Crimsoned

    Crimsoned Notebook Deity

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    It won't give you "better" performance at 1080p unless you looking at bluray, or extremely high bandwidth video. However it would be recommended to use the Display Port for HDCP compliance.
     
    Crimsoned, Sep 23, 2010
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