Multi-modal active cable for performing a mode identification operation

A system and method for providing a multi-modal active cable. In certain embodiments, the multi-modal active cable enables transmission of alternative display information from a source system. More specifically, in certain embodiments, the multi-modal active cable comprises a switching component to allow host system integrated I/O signals to be provided as either I/O adapter integrated I/O signals or dedicated display signals via a single multi-modal active cable. In certain embodiments, the integrated I/O signals comprise Thunderbolt I/O signals. In certain embodiments, the dedicated display signals comprise DisplayPort signals. In certain embodiments the switching component comprises at least one radio frequency (RF) microwave high performance analog switches to switch the high speed digital signals (e.g., signal speeds up to 40 Gbps on each of a plurality of lane). By using such switches, the load capacitance on the signal paths is minimized as the impedance is carefully controlled.