• Simple adapter plugs or cables convert HDMI to DVIdvi/d-sub adapter image by TEA from Fotolia.com
  
  HDMI, high definition multimedia interface and DVI, digital visual interface connections provide high definition video signals for television, monitors, laptops, game consoles and other devices. Since they carry similar signals, a simple HDMI to DVI converter cord is the only necessary component to switch between the two.
  
  

Second Monitor

• Many laptop computers come with an HDMI output, but lack a DVI output for connecting a second monitor. Connecting a conversion cord allows the laptop to output a DVI signal for use with a second screen, even if the monitor won't work with HDMI cords.
  
  

Game Consoles

• Turn a monitor into a high definition gaming screen. With a converter, game consoles compatible with HDMI connections, such as the Xbox 360 and the Playstation 3, can output DVI signals straight to a monitor and get high definition games without an HDTV.
  
  

Television as Monitor

• Converting the DVI output from a computer's video card to HDMI makes the connection compatible with most high definition televisions. With the converter, any HDMI capable television becomes a second monitor for the computer.
  
  

Projector Compatibility

• Projectors requiring only one kind of input work with any PC after converting the signal with an HDMI to DVI cable, regardless of the signal output variety. In turn, a converter cable can connect a projector to a PC, even if the computer lacks the correct input.
  
  

Backwards Compatibility

• Since HDMI fully supports DVI signals, any other HDMI device will display appropriately with a DVI device through a converter cable. Note that not all DVI devices operate in the same way, though many will function correctly with the connections in reverse order as well.