High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) Cables are a great one-cable alternative to using separate audio and video cables. Prior to HDMI cables, separate audio and video cables would be necessary.
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HDMI cables connect high-resolution
components. HDMI cables are important if you want to make the most of your TV. They send the best audio and video to your TV from an up-converting DVD player, Blu-ray player, Playstation 3, or XBOX 360.
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HDMI cables are not all the
same. They are constructed of different materials, have varying lengths, and some are rated for the signal quality they must maintain over long lengths. HDMI cables must be tested at an authorized HDMI testing center to be able to carry the HDMI name. Testing centers are very strict with the specifications that the cables must have.
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| There are a few different types of HDMI cables: HDMI 1.0, HDMI 1.1, HDMI 1.2, HDMI 1.3 and HDMI 1.4. |
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HDMI 1.3: Bitrate increases on the 1.3 as well as the bandwidth. This cable can support Deep Color whereas the previous cables could not. CEC capacitance limits were changed, CEC commands for timer control were brought back-with added audio commands, and the sRGB quantization range was clarified.
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| *HDMI 1.3 (and newer) cables are backwards compatible with components that require: HDMI 1.0, HDMI 1.1, and HDMI 1.2 cables. |
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| HDMI 1.4: Released in June of 2009, version 1.4 increases the resolution available through the cables, HDMI Ethernet Channel allowing for a transfer rate of 100 Megabytes per second between the two HDMI devices. An automotive connection system has been added, along with and Auto Return Channel, micro HDMI connector, and added support for color. |
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| Miscommunication can occur between a video source and the TV. This generally happens when there is a manufacturer's defect or the copy connection code is interfering. The copy protection code will obstruct the audio and video from getting to the TV. The communication between devices, via HDMI, is called Extended Display Identification Data (EDID). The devices connected by the HDMI cable can send and receive information to each other. This communication sends information beyond the audio and video signals. Manufacturer name, product type, screen resolution, and color depth are exchanged between devices making auto-configuration and set-up easy. |
