08/06/2026
A common issue for people trying to get new accessories to go with their older computer or a new computer to go with their old accessories is trying to find out what connectivity is required.
MONITORS:
When asking about monitor (video/display) connections, I often get: "It's the common one" or "It's the old (or new) one. Neither is actually helpful. Which "old one" or which "new one" will be my follow-up question.
With so many people having smartphones, I commonly suggest taking pictures of the computer and accessory connections and cable ends so we can SEE just what you have and, therefore, what you may need. It really helps us help you a bit more easily.
In most (but not all) cases, we can use an adapter to convert from one connection type to another to aid with compatibility issues.
This is true with both desktop and laptop computers.
Many new laptops only have "USB Type C" ports. These can be adapted to most of the other common video connection types.
JUST FYI: We stock many video adapters, including the USB Type C compatible versions.
NOTE: The ports in the graphic are NOT sized to scale.
