Abbreviation for Digital Visual Interface. DVI was developed to standardize the way output and display devices transfer data and connect. One of its features is the ability for graphics cards to read the attributes of connected output devices (manufacturer, model, resolution, frequency, etc.) It was originally intended for domestic devices like DVD players and TV sets and thus for short cable lengths. The quick adoption by PC and graphics card manufacturers forced the entertainment industry to develop technology and methods to extend the DVI's signal range.