Sapphire Vid-2X Display Expander Review

Display expanders cannot be found in abundance on PC hardware market. In fact, not every user knows what the main purpose of those devices is. In the most general meaning, display expanders are splitters that allow the connection of two monitors towards a single output on a graphics card. However, their destination is not limited by this function only, since it might serve some other means as well. Sapphire introduces its own similar solution in the form of Vid-2X Display Expander model. The manufacturer assures that this splitter differs from traditional couplers in terms of functional and reliability.

Framework

Splitter Sapphire Vid-2X Display Expander is housed in a black plastic casing with gray side plates. The casing's cover is divided in two parts; the spacing between them serves ventilation and heat management means. The base accommodates rubber stands which provide for the framework steadiness. It should be mentioned that Sapphire delivers two models simultaneously (PSEDP4196 and PSEDV12186), the major differentiation between which is the type of video output. The first model receives signal to DisplayPort v1.1a, while the second model – to Dual-Link DVI.

Both models are equipped with mini-USB ports which supply power to the device. Splitters will not operate without USB charge; nevertheless there is no need to buy an additional adapter for this purpose, since it can be powered right from the PC. There are also a couple of DVI ports on the side plate of the casing. The clipboard accommodates a symbol OLED-display that reflects all current operational modes and other data, Diag button, Reset button, and a line of switches.

The nominal delivery set of Sapphire Vid-2X Display Expander involves a detailed user manual, DisplayPort — DisplayPort cable, DisplayPort — mini-DisplayPort cable, USB – mini-USB cable with an additional power pin, and power adapter with connectors.

Specifications

Splitter Vid-2X Display Expander employs VESA DisplayPort v1.1a 4-lanes as the main video input. Depending on the model, there can be two single link DVI video outputs or two HDMI via adapters ports. This device requires DC +5V power supply template and is compatible with various video output formats.

Settings

The chief benefit of Vid-2X Display Expander is that is does not require any dedicated drivers or OS. The user just needs to connect the splitter to the graphics card and then involve a couple of monitors; displays might have different resolution but the final image will have the parameters of the display with smaller resolution. Both monitors will be activated right after PC startup, but it will consider two monitors as a single unit.

One more peculiarity of this splitter is that it can operate in 'Clone' mode which enables a simultaneous display of analogous content at several monitors. In order to activate 'Clone' mode, the user needs to turn on the first switch on the clipboard. OLED-display will change the data from S-Mode to C-Mode. The other switches are employed for the realization of Bezel Correction technology. This technology allows hiding those pixels which should be out of the display frame.

It should be stated that Splitter Vid-2X Display Expander might be used in non-gaming environment too. For instance, it can take active part in the creation of three-monitor system with a graphics card that does not support the connection of three displays. Here is where this splitter comes in handy.