VGA to HDMI: Why It Needs a Powered Chip
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Visualizing: VGA to HDMI: Why It Needs a Powered Chip
VGA is an Analog signal (voltage waves). HDMI is a Digital signal (1s and 0s). You cannot 'adapt' these with just a cable.
The DAC Requirement
An adapter must contain a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) or an ADC chip. This chip requires power, which it usually draws from the HDMI port or a separate USB cable.
If you see a VGA-to-HDMI cable without a thick plastic 'bulge' (where the chip lives), it is likely a passive cable that only works with very specific, rare hardware.
Technical References
- VESA: Monitor Control Command Set Standard.
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