What kind of video processor is provided by the MacBook Air? What is the maximum resolution it can support on an external display?

The MacBook Air has an "integrated" Intel GMA X3100 video processor with "144MB of DDR2 SDRAM shared with main memory." It is capable of simultaneously supporting 1920x1200 on an external display in dual display or mirroring mode as well as the internal 1280x800 display.

What is a "micro-DVI" port? How is it different from DVI and mini-DVI?

On basic terms, "micro-DVI" is even smaller than mini-DVI, which in turn, is smaller than the full-sized DVI. Even though micro-DVI is smaller than the mini-DVI provided by the MacBook, it still is capable of supporting 1920x1200 on an external display in dual display or mirroring mode, just like the MacBook.

Diagram Credit: Apple, Inc.

For complete technical details of the micro-DVI port -- including signals and pin assignment -- please refer to the Video Developer Note from Apple.

What ports are provided by the MacBook Air?

The MacBook Air has a remarkable dearth of ports. On the right it has a small "trapdoor" that drops down to expose a standard speaker/headphone jack, a single USB port, and a micro-DVI port (note that this door actually drops "down" from the underside of the computer rather than merely "flipping out" the side). On the left it has a MagSafe power connector -- but turned at a 90-degree angle to conserve space. That's it.

Those who need a greater number or variety of ports onboard -- more USB ports (hubs are available) or a Firewire port, for example -- probably would be better served by a MacBook or MacBook Pro.