Setting up a multi-monitor workstation—whether for creative workflows, software development, or high-FPS gaming—used to require complex cabling and expensive graphics hardware. Today, with the evolution of DisplayPort technology, seamless 8K visuals and high refresh rate multi-display output are within reach for many professionals and enthusiasts.
At the core of this shift is DisplayPort, a video interface that has steadily advanced to meet growing demands in resolution, bandwidth, color depth, and refresh rate. From DP 1.2 to DP 1.4 and now DisplayPort 2.1, the standard has continued to raise the bar. Leveraging the full power of DisplayPort 1.4, TESmart’s dual and triple monitor KVM switches—the DKS202-M24 and DKS203-M24—offer smooth control across multiple computers with 4K@240Hz and even 8K@60Hz capabilities.
DisplayPort 1.2: Enabling Multi-Stream Display Environments
Released in 2010, DisplayPort 1.2 introduced MST (Multi-Stream Transport), enabling users to connect multiple monitors using a single DisplayPort output. With up to 21.6 Gbps bandwidth, DP 1.2 could support 4K@60Hz, marking a milestone in UHD display adoption.
For users setting up extended displays, this reduced desktop clutter and allowed flexible configurations. However, DisplayPort 1.2 KVM switches lacked support for HDR and higher refresh rates, which soon became critical in creative and gaming workflows.
DisplayPort 1.4: Unlocking 4K@240Hz and 8K Video for KVM Switches
By 2016, the needs of professional users demanded more. Enter DisplayPort 1.4, which introduced major upgrades without increasing raw bandwidth (still 32.4 Gbps):
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Display Stream Compression (DSC 1.2): Enables visually lossless compression at 3:1, supporting 4K@240Hz and 8K@60Hz on existing cables.
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FEC (Forward Error Correction) and HDR10 metadata support: Ensure color accuracy and stable signal transmission.
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MST remains supported: Allowing daisy-chained multi-monitor display setups from a single port.
These features made DP 1.4 KVM switches ideal for video editing, high-FPS gaming, and ultrawide multi-screen workstations.
TESmart KVM Switches: Powering Multi-Host 4K Workflows with DP 1.4
TESmart’s DKS202-M24 (dual display) and DKS203-M24 (triple display) are among the most advanced DisplayPort 1.4 KVM switches on the market. Built for users who require multi-host control without compromising video fidelity, these switches are plug-and-play ready for today’s demanding environments.
Key Features for Multi-Monitor and Gaming Users:
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Supports 8K@60Hz or 4K@240Hz via DisplayPort 1.4 + DSC, ideal for high-refresh-rate gaming and ultra-detailed video editing.
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Compatible with FreeSync / G-Sync, supporting 12-bit color depth and smooth rendering for cinematic-quality visuals.
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EDID emulation: Prevents resolution resetting or window shifting when switching between computers.
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OS compatibility: Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, and more—perfect for hybrid studios or cross-platform developers.
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Multiple control methods: Hotkeys, mouse gestures, IR remote, and front panel buttons for flexible operation.
TESmart’s multi-display KVM switches give creators, engineers, and gamers the ability to switch PCs with zero delay—no need to restart apps or reconfigure monitors.
DisplayPort 2.1: The Future of Ultra-High Bandwidth Displays
Released in late 2022, DisplayPort 2.1 delivers a massive leap forward in display performance:
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Up to 80 Gbps bandwidth—2.5× that of DP 1.4.
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128b/132b encoding—reduces signal overhead for improved efficiency.
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Mandatory DSC and FEC—ensure smooth transmission at ultra-high resolutions.
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Support for 10K (uncompressed) and 16K (compressed), with enhanced compatibility with USB4 and Thunderbolt.
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Improved link training and signal reliability, especially over longer cables or docking stations.
While DisplayPort 1.4 KVM switches like TESmart’s M24 series remain ideal for current-generation systems, DP 2.1 lays the foundation for next-gen AI modeling, 3D rendering, and future-proof gaming setups.
DisplayPort Versions Comparison Table
| Feature | DisplayPort 1.2 | DisplayPort 1.4 | DisplayPort 2.1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Bandwidth | 21.6 Gbps | 32.4 Gbps (with DSC) | 80 Gbps |
| Max Resolution | 4K@60Hz | 8K@60Hz or 4K@240Hz | 10K (uncompressed), 16K (DSC) |
| Multi-Monitor Support | ✅ MST supported | ✅ MST + DSC supported | ✅ MST + DSC + higher link robustness |
| HDR Capability | ❌ | HDR10 | Advanced HDR and wider color profiles |
| TESmart Compatibility | ❌ | ✅ DKS202-M24 / DKS203-M24 | Planned support |
Conclusion: DisplayPort + TESmart = High-Performance Multi-Display Workstations
The evolution of DisplayPort technology has transformed how we build modern workspaces. From 4K KVM switches to 8K multi-host control, DisplayPort has unlocked experiences that were once out of reach.
TESmart’s M24 KVM switch series is the culmination of these advancements—offering ultra-smooth, zero-delay switching for power users across industries. Whether you’re a video editor, system integrator, software engineer, or competitive gamer, TESmart provides the tools to build a future-ready multi-monitor desktop—today.
As DisplayPort 2.1 continues to roll out, TESmart is ready to adapt, delivering the next generation of bandwidth, clarity, and cross-platform control to your professional or gaming environment.
