Adapters allow you to convert different connectors between one interface type to another as long as the interface types are electrically compatible. Adapters can also allow you to convert from one format to another. For example, if you need Ethernet but only have a USB connection available.
DVI to HDMI
HDMI and DVI are electrically compatible. HDMI is backward compatible with DVI-D. No signal conversion is requrired and there is no loss of video quality. So you can have a cable with a DVI-D connection on one end and an HDMI connector on the other end. Standalone adapters also exist so that there is no cable between the DVI-D and HDMI ends.
USB to Ethernet
Many modern laptops no longer include an Ethernet interface. Therefore, if you want a wired connection you can purchase a USB to Ethernet adapter.
DVI to VGA
DVI-A is an analog signal and is backward compatible with VGA. Only 640 x 480 resolution is officially supported.
However if you’re going from VGA to DVI digital then you may need a powered converted to convert the signals.
