Can I use this DVI-D cable?

[ygboi]

Hi all,

I work for a company in which I order and install Dell PC's for local businesses. Most of my installs include Dell flat panel monitors. In the box for these displays, is a DVI-D cable but are never used. I have collected well over 100 of these cables new and sealed. Well, I just picked up the Explorer 3250 HD box converter w/ DVI from Time Warner last night. I have the Sony KP51WS510 RPTV with 1 DVI input. Haven't had the chance to go home and connect everything, but I was wondering if I could use one of these cables to connect the two without inflicting any damage to either unit. I understand the DVI-D cable is for an all digital transmission, but my TV is analog. Will this work? Thanks in advance...

[spaceman_spiff]

It might work, but some STBs dont have DVI output enabled. So you might not get signal.
Also check the FAQ section for more info on DVI.

[LeeS]

It will work if it is truely a DVI-D single link ( the dual link works, just a waste of a few wires).

Here is 1 of 45 threads on search for DVI-D. Lots of info in it.

http://www.hdtvoice.com/voice/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7894&highlight=DVID

Lee

[ygboi]

Thanks much for the replies! I'll be stopping by TWC within the next hour to ask them whether or not DVI is enabled. If yes, I'll stop home and attempt to use the cable. I'll reply with results, hoping that my findings will help others out. I'll also be sure to compare the PQ of the component connection vs. DVI.

[ETHunter]

I'm anxious to find out about whether or not the DVI is enabled on your tuner. I just got the SA 8000 HD-DVR from TWC, which has a DVI output but was told from a TWC rep that it doesn't work and there are no plans for a firmware upgrade anytime soon. But then again, what do they know about all this high-tech stuff?! I'm still hoping that my DVI is functional...I've just been too lazy to get a cheap cable and test it out.

[57U]

The firmware for DVI for SA boxes is in the works. Some cable companies already have a working version. Each cable company may have different requirements.

As per FCC rullings, all HD STBs must have DVI enabled by, I believe, April/May.

ETHunter, you are so lucky to have the SA8000HD. You are one of the first. We'd appreciate hearing feedback when you get a chance to use it a while. Best to start a new thread and post it in the reviews section. Thanks

[ygboi]

DVI-D cable works beautifully! Indeed High Def. was more eye popping and realistic than via Monster cable component connection or the component cables provided by TWC. I went back and forth, back and forth for several hours doing comparisons. I watched in total darkness as well as under different light conditions from every seating distance imaginable. (though the glare factor on this Sony set was pretty bad.) I can't explain the PQ in technical terms, but I can say that component cables made the picture look somewhat "grainy" and "flat", whereas DVI was smoother and more 3D vivid-like to me and some friends. When connected, the TV settings indicate "Auto DVI". I can't wait to have this set calibrated! I haven't even used any calibration disks as of yet! Just watching under the minorly remote adjusted "movie" mode.

[D-Rock0030]

I've been told by someone who works for TWC here in SC that the 3250HD boxes now have the DVI ports turned on, they released a patch that turned them on and now shows the guide info when using the composite or S-Video outputs. We just got the 8000HD boxes here a few weeks ago and the DVI on them doesnt work but they are going to download a new firmware update to get them working here very shortly. I am still waiting for a TWC rep to come install the 8000HD at my house. They only have a limited number of boxes so they wont let you pick them up over the counter yet, but have heard that they work great.