How Does HDMI Compare to Component?
Other People Are Reading
-
High Definition Basics
-
In the world of HD media, there are several basic facets of this visual technology you must keep in mind when considering component cables versus HDMI cables. First of all, there are five different standardized "grades" of HD picture: 480i, 480p, 780p 1080i and 1080p. The number in these grades refers to the maximum lines of horizontal resolution, and the letter refers to whether the display is progressive or interlaced. Interlaced scanning is older and uses an analog-inspired format, while progressive is purely digital and displays the picture at a much faster rate.
Component Cables
-
Component cables have an analog-style delivery method, similar to the traditional triple-pronged cables of the last media generation. Component cables work by splitting up the different color and audio signals and then putting all these components back together onscreen. This is why they are optimized for interlaced displays, since they both use primarily analog technology. Component cables support all of the different resolution grades except for the highest.
-
HDMI Cables
-
HDMI cables use a purely digital delivery system, which results in a faster picture delivery rate and a "true" digital image. HDMI cables work by taking the image and audio together as a package, instead of separating it into separate components. HDMI cables support all five different resolution grades, and display "p" resolutions in a much sharper fashion. However, because the HDMI cables use digital technology, they are much more expensive.
Comparison
-
When deciding whether you want component cables or HDMI, it is best to consider your television first. Most TVs have a resolution maximum, and if yours is 1080i or 720p, then component cables will work just fine. However, if you have a TV that can handle 1080p resolution, then the HDMI cables will give you a sharper resolution. HDMI cables are much more expensive than component cables, and TVs often only have a single HDMI input, which can make things challenging if you have multiple input devices (such as game consoles). The bottom line will generally come down to the media you watch and the hardware you have. For instance, if you have a Blu-ray DVD player and a TV capable of 1080p resolution, then you may want to spring for the HDMI cable. However, if you use the TV for just playing video games or watching cable or satellite TV (which is normally broadcast in 720p), then you may want to stick with the more cost-effective component cables.
-
Resources
- Photo Credit Projector People
