2560*1600 on Dell U3011 via AV multiport (HDMI) => DVI converter

[Billcat]

Finally got my AV multiport adapter to see how it works with my Dell U3011.

HDMI direct, 1920*1200 is the max you can get, but with a HDMI=>DVI coveter cable, bingo, 2560*1600.

This is the one I used: http://www.amazon.com/UGREEN-Female...8&qid=1432357503&sr=8-1&keywords=Ugreen+20118

Hope this helps folks with Dell monitors.

 

[Niarlatop]

Are you using 2560x1600 @ 60Hz?
I didn't think it was possible since HDMI has a too limited bandwith for such a resolution.

 

[JTToft]

HDMI direct, 1920*1200 is the max you can get, but with a HDMI=>DVI coveter cable, bingo, 2560*1600.

This is the one I used: http://www.amazon.com/UGREEN-Female...8&qid=1432357503&sr=8-1&keywords=Ugreen+20118

- Are you quite sure about that? As far as I can see that adapter only does up to 1080p (more likely 1920x1200 actually). What refresh rate are you using?

Are you using 2560x1600 @ 60Hz?
I didn't think it was possible since HDMI has a too limited bandwith for such a resolution.

- Depending on the HDMI version, it can support all the way up to 3840x2160 at 60Hz. The Apple Multiport adapter uses 1.4, which does up to 3840x2160 at 30Hz.

 

[Niarlatop]

I've done further reading, and from HDMI 1.3 and above, 2560x1600 @ 60Hz is possible.
I guess Apple doesn't allow more than 1920x1200 via software when it detects HDMI connection, whereas superior resolution are accessible to DVI connection. If it's the case, HDMI superior resolution should be accessible via SwitchResX or other software.

 

[JTToft]

I guess Apple doesn't allow more than 1920x1200 via software when it detects HDMI connection

- That's certainly not true. Several users on there are using 2560x1440 via HDMI from the Apple adapter, and others (including Ars Technica) have confirmed support for 3840x2160 at 30Hz using the Apple adapter.

 

[Niarlatop]

Then it's the OP's monitor that's featuring a HDMI 1.2 or below connector, thus limiting the max resolution.
The native 2560x1440 support from the digital AV adapter is a good news.
I understand now why Apple ain't in a rush to offer a digital DisplayPort adapter.

 

[Billcat]

Then it's the OP's monitor that's featuring a HDMI 1.2 or below connector, thus limiting the max resolution.
The native 2560x1440 support from the digital AV adapter is a good news.
I understand now why Apple ain't in a rush to offer a digital DisplayPort adapter.

1) Yeah, it is at 60Hz.
2) DisplayPort used to be THE port for my U3011 and I did doubt about this HDMI adapter, but it turned out working great.

Quick sum:
A) What is limiting what you can get from HDMI from this macbook with this adapter, is the max resolution supported by the HDMI interface on the monitor side (for some dell ones including U3011, it is 1920*1200).
B) If you are gated at 1920*1200, go with another HDMI=>DVI, it can drive up to the native resolution of the monitor. It seems that the high resolution monitors (at least for U3011) do come with dual link DVI interface.