What is a key characteristic of digital video cables like HDMI and DisplayPort?

Digital video cables like HDMI and DisplayPort are designed to transmit high-quality video and audio signals. A key characteristic is that if the cable is damaged, the signal tends to disappear entirely. This is due to the nature of digital signals, which require a certain integrity to maintain quality. Unlike analog signals, which can diminish gradually and still produce an image with some quality, digital signals are binary in nature, meaning they are based on discrete values (0s and 1s).

When a cable is compromised, such as being cut or having a severe bend or kink, the digital signal can no longer be properly transmitted. The result is often a complete loss of signal rather than a degraded version of the image, leading to a black screen or absence of sound. This characteristic differentiates digital cables from older analog cables, where some degradation could result in lower quality rather than total absence.

Other options consider aspects that are less characteristic of digital video cables. For example, ambient light is not a significant issue for digital cables, as they are designed to transmit signals without interference from external light sources. Signal degradation over distance can occur, but typically with specific limitations, especially in higher-quality digital cables. Lastly, while it’s possible for digital signals to be intercepted