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HDMITM is becoming the connection standard for High-Definition consumer electronics products. HDMI stands for “High-Definition Multimedia Interface.” It provides an all-digital connection solution in one cable, with the potential for the most incredible video picture ever seen, combined with full, uncompressed digital audio sound.
The HDMI connectivity standard was a result of a combination of giants in the industry getting together to create a high performance digital connection. Sony, Hitachi, Thomson (RCA), Philips, Matsushita (Panasonic), Toshiba, and Silicon Image are the founders of HDMI. High-Definition, as we know it today is advancing rapidly, and will pale in comparison with the video of tomorrow. Soon, you will hear new buzz words like “deep color,” higher refresh rates, and higher resolution displays.
High definition, as we know it today, is delivered at a 2.2 Gbps throughput rate. Although high compared to standard DVD at .81 Gbps, it is miniscule compared to the throughput requirements that will achieve the best performance from high definition in the near future, which will require 10.2 Gbps and more. Previous generation HDMI cables developed to meet the original 2.2 Gbps standard are not certified for the new standard, and may not pass the full bandwidth required to provide the best performance from these new products.
Evolving technologies in video displays (1080p, 1440p and beyond), new sources such as Blu-ray, HD DVD and Playstation 3, and content (such as the latest in HD movies in 1080p, and 10bit/12bit and greater color depth) all need more advanced cable technologies.
How do you Find a Better HDMI Cable?
- The internal conductors must be exactly the same length, and exactly the same proximity to each other throughout the entire length of the cable.
- The conductors should be oversized so that there is improved signal flow.
- The soldering and integrity of the connector is all important, since any aberrations in the termination will cause a disturbance in the data flow.
- Shielding is essential since we are operating at such high frequencies. Look for HDMI connectors that are designed as a solid metal shell and soldered directly to the strain relief. Any abuse by the installer will not have an effect on the quality of the connection.
- In addition, it's important to look for HDMI cable designs that feature a mesh protective jacket to protect the cable from deformation while the cables are being pulled, turned, and often mishandled due to bending and pulling through walls. Kinks and deterioration of the conductors can cause data interruption that can diminish or interrupt picture and sound quality.
- Dielectrics, critical to performance minimize the “jitter” of the digital signal as it travels through the cable. The result: lower losses through the cable and the ability to run longer lengths.
- Finally, silver plating and proprietary alloys are essential to conduct high frequencies better, for greater total bandwidth.
Recommendation: Purchase the best possible cable you can afford so if you encounter a problem, you will know it is not coming from the cable.
HDMI Version History
| HDMI 1.0 |
HDMI 1.1 |
HDMI 1.2 |
HDMI 1.3 |
| Initial Specification |
Added support for DVD Audio |
Added support for SACD Audio |
Increases bandwidth to 10.2Gbps (340Mhz) |
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Permitted PC applications to use only RGB color space |
Offers support for 16-bit color, increased refresh rates (ex. 120Hz), support for 1440p/WQXGA resolutions |
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Supported low-voltage (AC-coupled sources) in PCs |
Supports xvYCC color space standard |
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Adds features to automatically correct audio video synchronization (lip sync) |
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Adds mini connector |
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Adds support for Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio standards |
Source: IDC, 2006
Guide to HDMI Troubleshooting
You've just hooked up your brand new HDTV, DVD player and AV receiver with their advanced HDMI connections. Yes, quite a moment. There's just one problem. There's no picture and sound! Stop, take a deep breath and step away from the ledge. We can help.
If you encounter audio/video problems after making your HDMI connections, follow these easy troubleshooting steps
- Check your cable connection and make sure it is securely plugged in to the correct input/ouputs on your components.
- Make sure the video and audio outputs on your sources (Satellite, Cable, DVD, or other) are set to HDMI. This can be changed within each component's menu system.
- Make sure the video and audio inputs on your HDTV or projector are set to HDMI. This can be changed within your display's menu system.
- If a problem persists with cable or satellite receiver, call your regional provider to ensure they are transmitting an HDMI signal. In some cases, the cable box may have an HDMI output but not be outputting an HDMI signal.
- If HDMI is not an option, use Component Video. It's the next preferable high-definition video connection, supporting 720p/1080i resolution. And, for high-resolution surround sound use source's digital fiber optic, digital coaxial, or multi-channel analog audio outputs.
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