When comparing HDMI and DisplayPort, which feature is unique to the DisplayPort architecture?

Question

When comparing HDMI and DisplayPort, which feature is unique to the DisplayPort architecture?

1. A. TMDS signaling
2. B. Ethernet over cable
3. C. Uncompressed audio
4. D. Daisy Chaining (MST) (Correct answer)

Correct Answer

Option D — Daisy Chaining (MST)

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is Daisy Chaining (MST).

Key Points

• Multi-Stream Transport (MST) is unique to DisplayPort. It allows several monitors to be connected in a chain from a single port, with the video streams multiplexed over one cable.
• HDMI has no equivalent and requires a separate port per display.
• The other options are not exclusive: TMDS signalling is used by HDMI (and DVI), Ethernet over cable is an HDMI feature, and uncompressed audio is carried by both.

Additional Information

• DisplayPort uses packetised data transmission, similar in principle to networking, which is what makes multiplexing several streams possible; HDMI uses TMDS.
• DisplayPort is the more common standard on PCs and monitors, while HDMI dominates televisions and consumer AV equipment.
• DisplayPort Alt Mode carries DP signals over a USB-C connector, which is how many laptops drive external displays through a single port.
• Practical distinction: HDMI carries a CEC control channel for consumer devices, while DisplayPort offers higher bandwidth headroom at equivalent versions.