All About HDMI Cables

Connecting the dots

In order to deliver cutting-edge picture and sound quality, new high-end home electronics demand better infrastructure, including sophisticated HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) cables.  HDMI cables carry digital signals in the most efficient manner and provide copyright protection compliant with High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP).

DVD players, cable or satellite receivers, and HDTV televisions need these advanced connectors to transmit signals between the various components in a home theater without loss of quality at each juncture, as is the case with more commonly available equipment. 

The physical connection between each of these units can be a kind of bottleneck for the flow of digital information, forcing unnecessary conversions to analog signals and reducing the overall quality of the viewing experience.  

Audiophiles take note

HDMI cables carry digital signals between parts of an entertainment system with a minimum of jitter (distortion of the signal caused by poor synchronization), crosstalk (unwanted signal leakage), or attenuation (decrease in signal strength).  The HDMI standard is backward compatible with older methods of connecting multimedia equipment, specifically devices possessing only DVI adapters.  DVI to HDMI communications require a separate audio connection, such as a coaxial or fiber optic cable.  

Although HDMI cables carry complex digital signals with the highest possible fidelity, cable lengths factor into the equation. Short cables for rear projection televisions, plasma screens, and LCD television generally remain free of distortion due to overly long cables.

In more elaborate home set ups, particularly those involving projectors, cable lengths may approach the maximum recommended distance, approximately 15 feet.  HDMI cables made of copper might prove superior to fiber optics in such a case, but signal boosters or amplifiers may still be advisable.  Careful installation will prevent adverse signal degradation due to the crushing or bending of these cables.

For best results

Use HDMI cable connection for all components that can use them to ensure optimal picture quality.

Use the shortest length of cable possible to connect each part in the system.  Any signal weakens as it travels through a length of conductor.

Although it may be possible to configure equipment more than one way, keep the number of cables in use to a minimum.

If more than one device connects to a single monitor or display, make sure and include a quality switch that can handle HDMI connections.

Buy reputable, guaranteed cables.

Before installing cables in walls or elaborate shelves, test them to ensure a desirable signal.

More information on cables