StarTech.com DISPL10MA Troubleshooting Manual

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
When should I use a longer video cable vs. a video extender?
You should only use video converters and extenders if it is absolutely necessary to do so. In
many cases, most video converters and extenders are not necessary if you purchase the correct
cable.
The following table lists the maximum length of cable for common video standards.
Video standard Maximum length
DisplayPort 50 ft. (15.2m)
HDMI 50 ft. (15.2m)
DVI 50 ft. (15.2m)
VGA 200 ft. (71m)
Note: StarTech.com offers cables longer than what is listed above, including active cables,
which typically include built-in active signal boosters that allow for longer cables. Active
cables are specifically designed to exceed the suggested maximum lengths and are tested at the
listed specifications (for example, the maximum listed resolution).
Video adapters
Video adapters passively adapt a cable from one connector type to another. Video adapters do
not change the signal type, or change the video standard.
Examples of common applications for adapters include the following:

DVI-I to VGA

RCA to BNC

Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort

Couplers (female to female, or male to male)
Note: You can use a coupler to extend a cable for a short distance. However, each coupler that
you use can introduce signal loss, which degrades the signal quality.