[Phelps]

I rcently switched from a VGA to a DVI connection to my external (17" NEC) monitor. I can't say I notice a difference in the display, and it appears that my fan is suddenly running at a much more noticeable level. So two questions:
- What benefits should I expect from DVI over VGA?
- Is there a reason that the DVI connection would lead to higher PB temperatires?

Thanks,

Phelps

[ibook_steve]

DVI is a pure digital signal, so it will always be advantageous over VGA for video quality. Is this a DVI LCD or CRT? If its a CRT, that may be why you don't see much difference (depending on the quallity of the display, of course).

As for the temperature, you don't mention which machine you have or what you are doing with the external display. With DVI, you're activating a part of the graphics chip that wasn't active before. If you are doing something intense, then the chip will certainly get hotter, causing the fan to kick in sooner.

Steve

[Phelps]

Thanks Steve.

A little additional information: I am working on a 12" PowerBook (most recent rev) and running a 17" LCD display. I wasn't doing anything particularly intense - reading email, a couple of programs open.

Will the advantages of the DVI signal primarily show up with motion (movies etc)?

John