Complete Guide to HDMI Cables

High Definition Multimedia Interface carries digital video and audio via a 19-pin connector that provides a clear picture and sound. You can connect high-definition video sources like Blu-ray players, game consoles, computers, HD capable satellites, and more.

Let's discuss different types:

There are four types you must consider:

1. High speed with Ethernet
2. High speed without Ethernet
3. Standard speed with Ethernet
4. Standard speed without Ethernet

Remember to choose high-speed cable to ensure it supports current technology.

Going further, what is HDMI Ethernet?

It allows Ethernet connected devices to share connections with other devices over HDMI cables. Currently, few devices support HDMI with Ethernet devices. HDMI Ethernet is backward compatible so that it can work with non-Ethernet devices.

What's the difference between each version?

You need to see components marked with different versions. But, some versions don't guarantee the component has a full feature set of standards. Whereas, some have specific capabilities of a component instead of the version. But, the versions are backward compatible with previous versions. Choose a high-speed cable.

Distance an HDMI cable carries a signal:

There is no specific limitation given in specifications. Cables that meet HDMI compliance test standards pass a signal of a certain strength to low-performance electronics.

The design, construction of the cable, installation, and video resolution are major factors. They determine how far the signal will carry. The cable runs longer; the quality of cable becomes very important. Like analog signals, you can experience a gradual loss of signal quality. But, there can be a reduction in the most resolution of the signal and no support for extra features like 3D video. You should consider a signal booster for most applications if your cable runs longer than 30 feet.

The following are some of the options for HDMI cable to run over 30 feet.

HDMI cable runs up to 150 feet and has built-in electronics to boost the signal. Sometimes, these options can provide double range of passive cable. Anyhow, they also need external power.

Cable runs up to 500 feet or longer solutions that are cost-effective. Cat5/ Cat6 cabling can be a good option as it carries the signal between the transmitter and receiver. Your video source connects with a transmitter, and your TV or display connects to a receiver. It is a new standard known as HDBaseT. It allows the Cat5/ Cat6 cable to carry serial and IR remote control signals along with HDMI video and audio.

Things you need to run cable via your wall: HDMI wall plates provide a connection to the wires on both sides of the wall, whether you use conventional cables or CAT5/ CAT6 patch cables. Remember to use cables which are useful to rate for in-wall use.

Cables that have detachable ends are also handy for in-wall installations. You can remove the connector and so it requires a small wall opening. Once the cable runs, the connectors can attach to the component side of the wall.

Below, I've listed some of the extra tips you need to consider:

• 3D video signals:

A good quality high-speed best HDMI cable can carry a 3D video signal. Select a high-quality cable.

• Ultra HD Video:

Some of the best HDMI cables can help you carry 4K video signals.

• Limited inputs:

Use an HDMI switch to send more signals to TV or monitor. It does not have enough inputs to connect many sources and has the capability to choose between them.

• HDMI to VGA adapter:

The compact portable HDMI to VGA adapter helps connect with a computer, desktop, laptop, or other devices. You need to connect the HDMI cable to a monitor, projector, HDTV, or other devices with a VGA port. In simpler terms, the source should have HDMI, and the destination should have VGA, i.e., no audio output.

Source: https://www.sooperarticles.com/shopping-articles/electronics-articles/complete-guide-hdmi-cables-1789637.html