HDMI

HDMI

Stands for "High-Definition Multimedia Interface." HDMI is a digital interface for transmitting audio and video data in a single cable. It is supported by most HDTVs and related components, such as DVD and Blu-ray players, cable boxes, and video game systems.

While other types of A/V connections require separate cables for audio and video data, HDMI carries the audio and video streams together, greatly eliminating cable clutter. 

For example, a component cable connection requires three cables for video and two for audio, totaling five cables in all. The same information can be transmitted using one HDMI cable.

Because HDMI is a digital connection, HDMI cables are less prone to interference and signal noise than analog cables. Also, since most components, such as DVD players and digital cable boxes process information digitally, using HDMI eliminates the analog to digital conversion other interfaces require. Therefore, HDMI often produces the best quality picture and sound compared to other types of connections.

HDMI cables are typically more expensive than analog cables, largely because they cost more to manufacture. Besides, the single all-purpose connection may alone be worth the difference to those who don't like dealing with confusing cables and connections.

The HDMI Advantage

HDMI technology is the global standard for connecting high-definition equipment. HDMI is the intelligent, all-digital interface that delivers both dazzling quality and unmatched ease of use. More than 1,200 of the world’s largest consumer electronics, PC and mobile device manufacturers incorporate HDMI connectivity into their products.

One Cable Does It All

HDMI technology transmits crystal-clear digital video, multi-channel surround audio, and advanced control data through a single cable. One HDMI cable can replace as many as eleven older cables, making your entertainment system easier to connect and easier to upgrade. You won’t find that level of elegant simplicity in any other connection.

Pure Digital Performance

Unlike older cables, an HDMI connection transmits uncompressed audio-video data in 100 percent digital form. That adds up to world-class viewing experience, with pixel-for-pixel video accuracy and audiophile-quality sound.

1080p and beyond - HDMI is built to accommodate extremely high-resolution video, with bandwidth to spare for the next generation of HD equipment.

System intelligence - HDMI-connected components have the ability to query each other’s capabilities and automatically adjust themselves for optimal viewing. A TV and a DVD player, for example, can auto-negotiate settings like resolution and aspect ratio.

Advanced features - The HDMI Specification includes many advanced functions that are helping to change the way we experience home theater – now and in the future. Some of these optional features include:

• 3D support for immersive movies and gaming
• Higher resolutions, like 1440p and 4K
• Faster refresh rates, like 120Hz.
• Deep Color, taking the HDTV palette from millions to trillions of colors.
• Ethernet connectivity, allowing connected devices to share an Internet connection.

Connect Everything

HDMI technology is the de-facto standard for connecting HD equipment. Virtually every TV, AV receiver, DVR, Blu-ray Disc player, and set-top box sold today comes standard with at least one HDMI connection. You’ll also find HDMI connectors on a growing list of other products including multimedia PCs, laptops and netbooks, gaming consoles, camcorders, digital still cameras, and mobile devices, giving you even more options on how you connect to the expanding universe of HD entertainment.