Graphics Card TMDS

[mdahc]

I emailed nVIDIA tech support a couple of weeks ago and asked whether AGP 6600 GT's can actually output an HDTV signal via DVI (this was back when the only AGP 6600 GT available was the XFX model), and the rep said yes and pointed me here. As the site states, only Geforce FX, Quadro FX, and Geforce 6 series cards that use an external TMDS device will enable the advanced timing option in the nVIDIA display properties (giving the user the ability to apply predefined templates for HDTV timings and resolutions). After looking at specs and manuals for all of the current AGP 6600 GT's, I discovered that only the Albatron product manual even mentions the term TMDS (and, of course, the Albatron model uses dual internal TMDS devices). I also couldn't find any mention of the TMDS device for any 6800 variant. Thus, does anyone know how to check if a manufacturer doesn't specify? I would prefer the 256-bit memory bus on the 6800 series, but I really want HDTV output support as well, which is why I've only been considering AGP 6600 GT's. I've looked all over the AVS forum, and I don't remember anyone posting a success story with a Geforce FX, Quadro FX, or Geforce 6 series card outputting HDTV signals over DVI.

 

[rbV5]

Its TMDS btw (Transition-Minimized Differential Signaling), so thats why you're not turning up much I think. The best bet would be to ask at the HTPC forum at AVSforums about users using DVI to drive their digital panels to see which cards are easiest to configure properly.

 

[mdahc]

Sorry, I meant TMDS (that's what I've been searching). I always get that acronym confused with TDM (time division multiplexing). I've looked at the HTPC forum, but I guess I'll just keep checking.

 

[mdahc]

I finally found one post that mentions HDTV over DVI and the TMDS for a Geforce 6 series card. The post concerned an XFX AGP 6600 GT. However, one user didn't seem to have any luck getting the Advanced Timings page to open while others did, not to mention that the people who did get it to work had to use the new 70.xx Forceware drivers. I think I'll just settle for an AGP 6600 GT with an included HDTV dongle. It doesn't sound like the DVI connection is a viable option yet.