What Does a HDMI Cable Do?

HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) cables provide a digital connection between high definition televisions and high definition components such as cable boxes, DVD players or Blu-ray players. HDMI cables allow for the signals from multiple devices to be transmitted through a single cable, eliminating cable clutter to the television. Bandwidth supplied by HDMI cables allows for better transmission of graphics and audio from high definition components. Current HDMI specifications allow for future advancement in home entertainment systems.

History

The first version of the HDMI cable was introduced in 2003 as a solution for component attachment to high definition televisions. HDMI was introduced as a replacement for analog transmissions such as component A/V cables and S-Video connections.

Function

The function of the HDMI cable is to transmit an uncompressed digital signal between high definition televisions and components without the need for digital-to-analog conversions necessary with other cables. HDMI cables combine both audio and video signals into a single cable, which allows easier connections to be made between components and televisions.

Types

Since HDMI 1.0 was released in 2003, other types of HDMI have evolved. These evolutions in the technology have increased the speed and capabilities of the HDMI cables. Currently there are five types of HDMI specifications, ranging from 1.0 to 1.3. Current HDMI specifications are backward-compatible with all other types.

Considerations

When converting to HDMI inputs, considerations should be made for components that are not HDMI compatible. The addition of receivers to home entertainment systems allow input of component A/V cables and provide conversion to an HDMI signal to be connected to the high definition television.

Benefits

HDMI provides the benefit of higher quality by allowing uncompressed digital signals and the ability for deep color. HDMI also supports various audio types including stereo, multi-channel and surround sound. Using HDMI cables provide simplicity in connecting multiple devices and eliminates unnecessary cable clutter between the television and components. HDMI cables also provide the ability for two-way communication between high definition televisions and components. This communication allows HDMI to automatically configure maximum capabilities between the television and the device, such as resolutions and aspect ratios.

Potential

HDMI cables provide as much as 10 gigabytes of bandwidth, and high definition televisions take advantage of only half of this available bandwidth, leaving a lot of room for future technological development. HDMI is equipped to handle higher resolutions, faster refresh rates and increased color capabilities.

References

• HDMI
• HDMI Cable FAQ
• HDMI Cable | What is HDMI?