> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/guides/pen-displays/hdmi-adapters.md).

# Using HDMI adapters with pen displays

## Before you begin

If you are not familiar with display connection options, read [Connecting a pen display](/drawtab/guides/connecting/connecting-pen-display.md) first.

## Overview

Sometimes the tablet needs to connect to your computer through HDMI. That means the cable from the tablet has a male HDMI plug, and your computer or adapter needs a female HDMI receptacle.

“Plug” and “receptacle” are the official terms, by the way.

However, you may be able to use another port.

## Order of preference of ports for adapters

Not all ports are equally good for connecting to HDMI. Some you should try first because they will give you a better experience.

If you don't have an HDMI port you should try alternative ports in the order below.

* DisplayPort
* USB-C (remember not all USB-C ports support sending a display signal).
* DVI
* VGA

## Adapter details

* [DisplayPort to HDMI adapters](/drawtab/guides/pen-displays/hdmi-adapters/dp-to-hdmi-adapters.md)
* [USB-C to HDMI adapters](/drawtab/guides/pen-displays/hdmi-adapters/usbc-to-hdmi-adapters.md)
* [DVI to HDMI adapters](/drawtab/guides/pen-displays/hdmi-adapters/dvi-to-hdmi-adapters.md)
* [VGA to HDMI adapters](/drawtab/guides/pen-displays/hdmi-adapters/vga-to-hdmi-adapters.md)

## Check your requirements

You need to make sure your adapter supports the **resolution** and **refresh rate** that you want from your pen display. For example, some adapters can do full HD at 60 Hz but only 4K at 30 Hz, so an adapter that works for one display may not be enough for another.

## Prefer digital-to-digital adapters

Some of these ports are digital (DisplayPort, DVI-D, USB-C) and some are analog (VGA). When you have a choice, prefer an adapter that goes **digital to digital**. Adapters that convert an analog signal (like VGA) to digital HDMI can introduce quality issues.

## Try to avoid adapters when you can

An adapter is one more component that can introduce a problem. If you have a native HDMI port available, use it. That said, I've used many adapters - especially DisplayPort-to-HDMI - with great results.

## General flakiness

Generally, these adapters "just work." But some computers have odd quirks, and the adapter may not work correctly.