HDMI cable versions: description and compatibility. Versions of HDMI cables: description and compatibility Version hdmi 2.0 b

HDMI Forum, a non-profit resource that reviews HDMI specifications, recently announced the release of version 2.0. The new version of the interface has a number of changes, the most significant of which is support for video at a higher frame rate than was possible with the current 1.4 specification.

In this regard, questions arise: how will this affect the future of television, and in general, is it worth purchasing new devices that support HDMI 2.0?

Good old HDMI 1.4

Let's start with the currently current version of HDMI 1.4, which has the following parameters: support for video with a resolution of 4096x2160 pixels and a frequency of 24 frames per second or 3820x2160 pixels at a frequency of 30 frames per second. If you have recently purchased any device equipped with an HDMI port, then most likely it is version 1.4. HDMI 1.4, in addition to all the previous characteristics, has 3D image support and Audio Return Channel technology.

HDMI 2.0 for 4K Ultra High Definition Television

With the TV industry gradually and steadily moving toward ultra-high definition (4K) television, it has become clear that improved connections and increased bandwidth will be required to enable high-resolution, high-frame-rate video transmission.

And here comes the HDMI 2.0 version, which supports the “4K” standard (2160p) with frame rates up to 60fps. This allows you to seamlessly stream ultra-high definition video using 3D technology, not to mention 2D at high frame rates. We are talking primarily about home videos and computer games, since almost all films are shot at a frame rate of 24fps, and this innovation is not so important for watching them.

HDMI 2.0 Bandwidth

The most important thing about HDMI 2.0 is the increase in the size of the “pipe” that transfers information from the source to the display, which allows you to increase the frame rate at high video resolutions. This also makes it possible to stream video at a lower resolution.

For example, HDMI 2.0 supports multiple video streams, and you can simultaneously watch two Full HD videos on one device. Seems incredible? But companies like Samsung and LG have already developed versions of similar displays, for example, MultiView. Now you can watch your favorite TV show while your spouse, for example, plays Call of Duty 9.

The version also supports video with an aspect ratio of 21:9, which is interesting in theory, but is still of little use in practice. Currently, only a few of these displays have been released.

Software update

It is currently somewhat unclear whether it will be possible to update HDMI 1.4 products (such as Ultra HD TVs) simply by downloading firmware updates. Sony has announced that its products can be updated in this way.

But the HDMI.org project reported that this feature will not apply to all products:

There is currently provision for updating the specification version from 1.x to 2.0. Hardware changes and/or firmware updates will be required to obtain the new, expanded feature set. If this is possible, the manufacturer will inform you about this.

Since the specifications and bandwidth are provided by the HDMI chips installed inside the products, the fact that the new series of chips are larger in size than the current ones could be quite a serious problem. So it's understandable why HDMI is being left out of the upgrade process for now. While it is not stated that this is generally impossible, references are simply given to the manufacturers of the equipment.

The good news is that, according to the manufacturer, no need to buy a new cable:

HDMI 2.0 does not require new cables or ports. Today's High Speed ​​cables can handle the increased bandwidth."

Despite this statement, failures may occur in some cases because the cables are not fully capable of transmitting high-speed signals. But even in this case, you don’t have to buy an expensive cable, you just need to try another suitable one.

Most likely, equipment with HDMI 2.0 version will appear on the market only in 2014, since the implementation of any development is a complex, multi-stage process. Although Panasonic is already promising to soon launch TVs with HDMI 2.0.

Undoubtedly, HDMI 2.0 is a wonderful new product that will raise the very culture of watching video to a new level. But you shouldn't worry about this until you can purchase off-the-shelf HDMI 2.0 products. Even then, your current HDMI 1.4 TV will be able to perform as well as any new 2.0 TV.

But, if in a few years you buy a TV that supports 4K technology and want to watch 2160/60p video from your Blu-ray player on it, then you will need to upgrade your receiver to HDMI 2.0.

Briefly about the main thing

High-definition multimedia interface (hereinafter: HDMI) cables are used to connect modern televisions with audio/video tuners, external cable TV tuners, media players, and Blu-ray players. They transmit audio and video signals over the same cable, thereby simplifying the connection. It's not so easy to choose the right one. Previous generation cables do not support modern specifications. The latest HDMI 2.0 cables support 4K TV and HDR (High Dynamic Range). In this article, we'll explain the differences between different versions of HDMI cables, including the most recent version of the cable: HDMI 2.0a. You will also find out which HDMI cable is needed for 4K TV. Finally, we will look at questions about actually connecting HDMI cables and provide solutions and answers.

And now in detail

HDMI digital interfaces are the best way to connect high-definition components such as Blu-ray players, PlayStation and Xbox 360 game consoles, HDTV satellite receivers and cable TV receivers to HDMI-equipped HDTVs and home theaters. Today, most often, HDMI is the only solution for digital HD connection. Although most TVs still have a component input, it has virtually disappeared on . Equipment manufacturers are gradually abandoning the use of component video output. And now, after many years, disc manufacturers have the option to insert a "digital flag" into a Blu-ray disc, which will limit component video resolution to 480i. This is for those who like high definition pictures. - Who doesn't like them? - You will definitely want an HDMI connection on your equipment.

One cable is very convenient, but that’s not all.

HDMI has the unique ability to carry high-definition video and multi-channel audio signals through a single cable, but it has other great benefits as well.

Picture and sound of the highest quality: HDMI connections preserve audio and video signals in digital 1s and 0s, eliminating the reduced picture and sound quality caused by digital-to-analog and down-conversion. HDMI supports video resolutions up to 1800p, which is important for 1080p HD TVs and Blu-ray players. (Only a few TV models can accept 1080p signals through a composite video input, a necessity for gamers since the PS3 and Xbox 360 provide 1080p on the video output.) And HDMI audio capability supports up to 8 channels of 24-bit 192kHz audio of very high quality.

Ability to transmit 3D video: HDMI is the only connection that is capable of transmitting 3D video signals from components such as a 3D Blu-ray player to your 3D TV.

More than just audio and video: The standard HDMI connector has 18 pins that carry not only audio and video data, but also 2-way control and identification information, operating even at minimal voltage. HDMI cables labeled “1.4” or later can also provide an Internet connection between compatible devices.

Copy protection for industrial use: there seems to be more benefit here to movie studio owners than to consumers, but has a direct impact on the quantity and quality of what we watch, both now and in the future. The widespread adoption of HDMI should satisfy most of Hollywood's requests for strong copy protection to eliminate privacy. HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) is present on almost all HDMI-equipped devices, although it is not officially part of the HDMI specification. Without HDCP, both the quality and quantity of high-definition content delivered to consumers will be significantly limited. However, HDCP protection has its negative aspects. One of its functions is to “authenticate” the connection between two components through a “digital handshake” and problems associated with the process of such a handshake can result in loss or degradation of image or sound.

Little tips for choosing an HDMI cable

Some components come with an HDMI cable included, but not all, so plan to purchase one to connect your device for better picture and sound. You won't see much difference in picture quality among different HDMI cables. With analog video, you might see varying degrees of picture quality on your display, while with digital video, you get clear images or none at all. Although sometimes, we saw “flashes” (sparks) of the image due to insufficient HDMI connection.
You still want to choose a high quality HDMI cable for length or for indoor installation. Cables vary in the material they are made from as well as the manufacturing method. Some are designed by the manufacturer to maintain maximum signal quality over the entire length of the cable. Some users experience interoperability issues when making HDMI connections, but this is almost never due to the cable itself.

For indoor and commercial use, you will need a CL2 CL3/FT4 UL cable such as .

Premium cable certification program HDMI

High-quality, high-speed HDMI cables are tested to ensure the quality of feature-rich 4K/Ultra-HD content

The HDMI Premium™ Cable Certification Program includes additional and enhanced cable testing, as well as an authentication and verification program for high-speed HDMI cables. The cables are tested to support the full 18 Gbps bandwidth of the HDMI 2.0b specification using an EMI test to verify the cables' ability to minimize interference from wireless signals.

The program is designed to give end users confidence when purchasing new HDMI cables for their 4K/UltraHD products, which may include features such as 4K@60Hz, BT.2020 and HDR. Members of the Premium Certification Program can advertise their ATC-tested High Speed ​​HDMI cables as Premium High Speed ​​HDMI Cables or Premium High Speed ​​HDMI Cables with Ethernet using a unique anti-counterfeit mark on their products.

Participants

Registered members of the Premium HDMI Cable Certification Program are called “HDMI Adopters” and are the only ones eligible to participate in the program. These Participants may be represented as brands in the market or supply manufacturers who enter the market with their own brands. When scanning the Premium HDMI Cable Certification Label, the results will display the brand name, which must appear on the packaging. Photo of the packaging of a cable certified under the Premium HDMI Cable Certification Program.

A complete list of HDMI Cable Certification Program participants is available at hdmi.org

Trust the cable with the label

Certification ensures that cables are genuine and certified throughout the entire supply chain. Each individual cable package will include a Premium HDMI Cable Certification Label. Each label is unique for each individual package.

Each HDMI Cable Certification Program label is unique to each individual package. The HDMI smartphone app will provide quick authentication.

This is the only HDMI cable test program:

• Administered by HDMI Specification Agent
• Requires every length of every model line for testing
• Requires each cable to be tested by an official authorized HDMI testing facility.
• Regularly inspects cables for continuous compliance testing throughout the life of the product
• Requires a proprietary anti-counterfeit label on every product
• Uses a patented Level 2 Mobile Scanning mobile app, available on Android and Apple, and in the top 10 Chinese mobile app stores.

Development/evolution of the standard

HDMI is a universal connector for home digital equipment. The standard continues to evolve to meet the needs of high quality home theater equipment. Conversely, all versions of HDMI are compatible with previous versions, as well as with DVI via an adapter (however, the DVI connection is only for video, not audio). Part of HDMI's built-in intelligence allows it to automatically send high-quality video and audio formats that are supported simultaneously. In other words, if you connect two devices, one with HDMI 1.3 and one with 1.4, the system will be limited to the 1.3 specification. Although you will often come across the fact that the HDMI version is indicated in the hardware specification, it is better not to pay too much attention to this. You don't have to focus on a feature list to get specific details on individual audio and video component capabilities. Just because the HDMI version of a piece of hardware doesn't mean it will include all the latest features; it does not guarantee the presence of a specific set of characteristics. This is because the features listed for each HDMI version are optional, not required. Each manufacturer has the right to decide for itself what HDMI characteristics to equip this or that equipment.

Do I need to worry about compatibility between HDMI versions?

Only if you're working with components equipped with the latest version of HDMI - currently 2.0a - and want to take advantage of certain new features from the new specification. However, each new version of HDMI is compatible with older versions, so components equipped with the old and new HDMI versions can work together. That is, if you use a 1.2 cable on 1.4 equipment, or a 1.4 cable on 1.1 equipment, you will get excellent high-definition picture and sound.

So what's the difference between the HDMI versions? Take a look at our summary of the evolution of HDMI below:

HDMI 1.0: The original specification supported a single-channel digital audio/video connection with 165 MHz bandwidth and a maximum bitrate of 4.9 Gbps (enough for 1080p video). Two channel audio only. Released in December 2002.

HDMI 1.1: Added multi-channel audio support for DVD-Audio (up to 5.1 channels). Released May 2004.

HDMI 1.2: Added support for multi-channel single-bit audio formats such as SACD (Super Audio CD). Enabled support for HDMI connectors on personal computers. Required displays with HDMI 1.2 or later to support future low-voltage devices. Released in August 2005.

HDMI 1.2a: Electronic control (CEC) functions and commands for remote control functions are fully defined. Longer cable lengths must be submitted by manufacturers for additional testing to ensure compliance with specifications. In order for a device to pass 1.2a testing, all of its HDMI connectors required testing and approval by HDMI Licensing, LLC. Released in December 2005.

HDMI 1.3: Increased bandwidth up to 340 MHz and maximum bitrate up to 10.2 Gbps (mainly for 3D video). The Deep Color standard has been adopted, which supports 10-bit, 12-bit and 16-bit colors. Over one billion possible colors - previous versions were limited to 8-bit. (Note: Since color information is based on the three primary colors - red, green and blue - you will sometimes see 1.3x enhanced color depth described as 30-bit, 36-bit and 48-bit.) Added support for the xvYCC Extended Color Gamut Color Space Standard (also known as xvColor), which supports 1.8 times more colors than existing HDTV signals. (Commercial video content does not currently use Deep Color or x.v.Color.) Added the ability to output new lossless compressed digital audio formats (Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio™) for decoding by a compatible A/V receiver. Built-in automatic "lip sync" control for perfect audio/video synchronization (sometimes a problem occurs when audio is sent to the receiver or surround processor but the video signal is delivered directly to the display). A new mini connector has also been released for use with smaller devices such as digital cameras and camcorders. Released in June 2006.
The 1.3 specification was updated to 1.3a and then 1.3b. However, for consumers there is no difference between versions 1.3, 1.3a or 1.3b. These are minor changes that relate to production and testing issues and do not affect features or functionality.

Considering purchasing a 4K TV? Any quality HDMI cable labeled “high-speed” should be able to transmit 4K video signals. (pictured above)

HDMI 1.4: Added Ethernet capability. If you have one HDMI 1.4 device connected to your home network, it can share that connection with other Internet-ready HDMI 1.4 devices using an HDMI 1.4 cable. Note. As of 9/16 we are not aware of any components that support Ethernet over HDMI. Also included is the ability to send audio from your TV's tuner back to your home theater receiver. HDMI inputs with this ARC (Audio Return Channel) feature are ideal for people who receive their high-definition programming over the air via an antenna and want to be able to enjoy surround sound with those TV shows. Released in May 2009.

The TV's standard HDMI inputs accept video and audio signals from sources such as a Blu-ray player. If your TV has an HDMI input with ARC (Audio Return Channel), it can also send audio from the TV's built-in tuner and web apps back to an ARC-compatible A/V receiver or soundbar via a single HDMI cable. This way, you don't need to connect a separate optical audio cable for audio.

HDMI 2.0: Increased maximum bitrate to 18 Gbps to support new formats such as 4K HD video (3840 x 2160 pixels) at up to 60 frames per second. (The 1.4 specification also supports 4K video, but only up to 30 frames per second.) HDMI 2.0 also supports up to 32 channels of audio, as well as dynamic automatic lip-sync and new extensions to the CEC control set. Released in September 2013.

HDMI 2.0a: Added support for HDR (High Dynamic Range) video images. HDR provides improved image quality by providing greater detail in both the dark and bright parts of the image. HDR information is encoded as additional metadata in HDR content, such as streaming 4K video from Netflix® or Ultra HD Blu-ray discs. HDMI 2.0a allows devices to transmit and receive this metadata. Released in April 2015.

HDMI 2.1: Higher video resolutions and faster refresh rates, including 8K60Hz and 4K120Hz for immersive viewing and smooth, detailed fast motion. Resolutions up to 10K are also supported for commercial AV systems, as well as industrial and specialty applications.

Dynamic HDR support ensures that every moment of video is displayed at its ideal depth, detail, brightness, contrast and wider color gamut - on a scene-by-scene or even frame-by-frame basis.

*for 2019

Do I need a special “4K compatible” HDMI cable?

Depending on how good and how old your HDMI cables are, it may be necessary to upgrade to "4K compatible" cables. Typically, HDMI cables make the most of their data transfer capacity, and to handle 4K/60Hz video signals, HDMI 2.0's performance has increased to a maximum capability of 10.2Gbps to 18Gbps. Today's HDMI cables, designated as "high speed" cables, are capable of handling an increased range of 4K signals over lengths of up to 8 meters. If you need a longer cable, we recommend an “active” type of HDMI cable such as or (Please note that this cable is directional. When connecting, see the markings on the cable.)

HDMI connection questions, solutions and answers.

Different versions of HDMI may introduce some interoperability issues, for example, you basically won't be able to get HDMI 1.4 performance when using non-1.4 hardware and cables.
Also, some problems may arise due to the fault of the manufacturer, who performed the manufacturing technology insufficiently or incorrectly. Incompatibility issues can also be encountered with the digital handshake between HDCP copy protection code and HDMI-connected components, especially when connected through an HDMI-equipped AV receiver in a home theater. When such problems are detected, the HDMI standards team contacts the manufacturer and requests a solution to the issue. In some cases, a product may be recalled.

Besides the initial handshake, there are other reasons for incompatibility between components. At the beginning of the article, I mentioned that HDMI supports two-way communication between the video source and the TV. Part of this digital communication is called EDID (Enhanced Display Identification Data), and this data reveals the capabilities of the TV to the source component. EDID information typically contains the manufacturer's name, product type, screen resolution, and color depth. Thanks to EDID, two devices not only communicate with each other, but also know who they are communicating with. All this allows for auto-configuration, which simplifies the setup process.
With all of this in mind, here are the most frequently asked questions from our customers regarding HDMI connections, along with possible solutions and answers:

HDMI performance over long distances

We get calls very often regarding the performance of long HDMI cables in home and industrial audio/video systems. One of the latest and greatest solutions is high-speed technology. These high-tech cables transmit superior picture and sound quality, including content such as 4K and 3D, over distances of up to 300 meters, significantly longer than conventional copper cables. High-speed cables work by converting HDMI electrical data into optical cables inside HDMI fiber optic connectors. The signals are converted back into an electrical HDMI data stream at the connection to your TV or projector. Since the cable is fiber, no signal loss occurs even over long distances, and it does not respond to interference from other devices, wireless devices and computers.

Getting HDMI 1.4 Specifications

No Audio Return Channel (ARC) from TV to AV Receiver
Check that both your TV and home theater AV receiver have HDMI 1.4 components, and that they both support Audio Return Channel (ARC). It may surprise you, but most TVs with HDMI 1.4 inputs only support Audio Return Channel on one of these inputs. Next, make sure you are using an HDMI 1.3 or 1.4 cable. (A little confusingly, hardware version 1.3 and below does not support the new HDMI 1.4 features; however, HDMI 1.3 cables do support some of them, namely the Audio Return Channel.)

HDMI and 3D TV

When I turn on the 3D Blu-ray player to watch a movie, the TV display goes blank.
It looks like the problem is that one of the components on your system does not support 3D video. For example, if you try to watch a movie through a 3D Blu-ray player on a TV that doesn't display 3D, the TV doesn't know what to do with the signal and its display goes blank.

The same thing can happen if you are trying to send a video signal through a 3D Blu-ray player to a home theater AV receiver that does not support 3D. The AV receiver is unable to transmit 3D video to your TV and the screen will be blank.
When you insert a Blu-ray disc, many 3D Blu-ray players require you to choose between 2D and 3D. If you select 3D, the player switches to 3D mode, giving you very little time to confirm your choice. If you don't confirm, the player assumes you can't see the image and reverts back to 2D.

When I try to watch a regular 2D movie, my 3D TV screen goes blank.
If your TV is set to only 3D video, it will not accept a regular 2D signal. Enter the TV display menu, select “AUTO” (or something similar), which will tell the TV display to accept incoming 2D or 3D signals, not just 3D.

General HDMI Handshake Issues

No sound or picture when using HDMI from DVD player to TV
Some video components are shipped from the factory with the HDMI output setting turned off. You can enable it through the settings menu, or, in some cases, by pressing the HDMI button located on the front panel or remote control.

No sound when using HDTV HDMI input
Most TVs lack built-in Dolby Digital decoded audio and DTS surround sound, and can only play 2-channel audio. But many HDMI-equipped video components come from factories with the ability to forward multi-channel audio already installed. Typically, changing the component's audio setting to "2 channel (PCM)" will solve the problem.

No picture when connecting cable box to HDTV
This is usually the fault of the cable box, as some cable providers may not be upgrading customers' equipment with new software and cable boxes that are fully compatible with HDMI-equipped TVs and A/V receivers. Customers should report problems to their local cable suppliers. Thus, when HDMI connection issues arise, one effective solution is to use video component connections and coaxial digital audio connections.

There are no subtitles on the display when using HDMI connections
Unfortunately, the HDMI specification does not include the need to carry subtitle data. So if you connect a component such as an HD cable or satellite receiver or DVD/Blu-ray player to your HDTV using HDMI, you will not see subtitles. If you want to see subtitles from your cable or satellite box, use the component's video connection, you will get both subtitles and a high-definition image.
An indirect problem may also be that most DVDs and Blu-ray discs are simply not encoded with subtitles and HDMI-compatible subtitles. In fact, a growing number of content providers are using a particular type of captioning, namely Subtitling for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, to help people with limited hearing. Even if not all discs come with subtitles, usually all DVD and Blu-ray players are capable of decoding subtitles if they are present.

There is no multi-channel audio when connecting the AV receiver to a video source and HDTV.
We've already mentioned the two-way intelligence of HDMI linking components, but sometimes this feeds into the system's connection problem. Typically the display shows the video and audio capabilities of the video source. Virtually all TVs are limited to 2-channel audio playback*. Since most A/V receivers use a "repeat" type of HDMI switch, the AV receiver simply transmits 2-channel information to the source, as opposed to the capabilities of a multi-channel receiver. Thus, the player only sends 2-channel audio to the AV receiver, rather than high-quality surround sound.
One simple solution may be to simply use a separate optical or coaxial cable for audio. Unfortunately, most HDMI-equipped components are designed to disable the digital audio outputs when using the HDMI output. We've found that some models do this and some don't (even those from the same brand), and going forward we hope to see more models that disable digital audio outputs.

Another question with HDMI sound related to the AV receiver: Some older HDMI-equipped AV receivers are not designed to pass audio through an HDMI connection; they only pass video through. To receive multi-channel audio from these AV receivers, you need to connect an optical or coaxial digital cable from the video source to the receiver. There are only a few entry-level AV receivers that still have this limitation, it's just something to be aware of.

Trademarks Premium HDMI Cable Certification Program, Premium High Speed ​​HDMI Cable, Premium High Speed ​​HDMI Cable with Ethernet, the Premium HDMI Cable label, and the Premium HDMI Cable logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc.

* As of 2019.

Still getting used to HDMI 2.0a and 4K HDR content? Get ready for a new challenge: the HDMI Forum published specifications for the HDMI 2.1 standard at the end of November, and it's on its way. After this announcement, many people had all sorts of questions: users were wondering whether their new TVs and 4K Blu-ray players were already outdated, and it was also unclear whether they would have to buy a bunch of new HDMI cables again. Besides all this, it’s not entirely clear what new HDMI version 2.1 will bring to our systems? What are we even talking about? How does it work and when will it be available?

We have answers to all these questions, and although, undoubtedly, the topic is not so simple and requires certain technical knowledge, we tried to make everything clear and interesting to both a tech geek and a simple housewife. Let's start with the most important - with the most common questions that appear most often on Internet forums.

Is my new TV already outdated?

Definitely not. If your TV supports 4K/UHD resolution and high dynamic range (HDR), or even only 4K, then it has a long way to go.

The new HDMI 2.1 standard opens up a lot of advanced capabilities (more on that later), but it will be years before all these new formats become widespread. This is out of the question now: 8K or 4K resolution with a 120 Hz refresh rate will not become commonplace anytime soon.

The conclusion is this: if you bought a TV a couple of years ago, then for now it will be enough for you. Are you planning to buy a new TV and wondering if you should wait for HDMI 2.1? Doesn't make sense. Firstly, you will have to wait about a year, and secondly, the benefits of HDMI 2.1 will unfold very slowly.

Do I need new cables for HDMI 2.1 to work properly?

Yes. Below you'll see the specifications and realize that HDMI 2.1 can carry three times more data than existing HDMI cables. So, to take full advantage of HDMI 2.1, you'll need a new type of Ultra High Speed ​​cable. In rare cases, it will be possible to use a regular High Speed ​​cable with a device equipped with HDMI version 2.1. However, the volume of data transmitted via cables is constantly growing, so it would be much more logical to immediately buy a new HDMI cable labeled “Ultra High Speed”. This should be done at the same time as purchasing components equipped with an HDMI 2.1 interface.

Separately, it should be noted that no physical changes to the ports or connectors are expected - the new Ultra High Speed ​​cables will fit old devices without any problems.

Is HDMI 2.1 compatible with previous versions?

Yes. You will be able to connect any device with legacy HDMI to a new TV or monitor with HDMI 2.1. For example, if in the future you want to connect your Xbox One to a brand new 8K TV with HDMI 2.1, then there will be no problems.

Can HDMI 2.0a be upgraded to HDMI 2.1?

This is theoretically possible, but unlikely in practice. Jeff Park, head of the HDMI Licensing Administrator (HDMI LA) software division, explained that there are premium chips on the market that can be software upgraded, but these chips are incredibly expensive and therefore rarely used by manufacturers. Chances are your TV or UHD Blu-ray player doesn't have one of these expensive chips.

Why was a new version of HDMI needed?

Believe it or not, some home AV equipment already requires almost all the bandwidth (18 Gbps) that HDMI 2.0a provides. Let's take the new Ultra HD Blu-ray disc as an example: 4K resolution itself requires a lot of bandwidth, and then you also need to add 10-bit chroma, 4:4:4 color subsampling, 60 Hz, and Dolby Atmos or DTS surround sound: X, HDR metadata and everything else that needs to be transferred from the 4K player to the TV. All this information requires almost 18 Gbps. How can you improve products if the bandwidth is no longer capable of handling AV information? No way. The new band needed is exactly what the HDMI Forum did by approving HDMI version 2.1.

Hollywood studios and video game developers need higher resolutions and higher frame rates, but these are not the only reasons why more bandwidth is required: modern devices need more channels to “communicate.” These days, a Blu-ray player or games console can talk to your TV, but only in small, clipped bits. The technology seems to exchange words, but cannot “communicate” normally in real time. By changing the design of HDMI connectors and cables, the HDMI Forum was able to not only expand the bandwidth, but also make it more convenient for devices to communicate with each other.

In other words, HDMI 2.0 is the highway we are used to, crowded with cars, and HDMI 2.1 is a new super-high-speed highway along which self-driving cars drive, able to avoid traffic jams and instantly adapt to traffic. So what good does this do for you and your entertainment system?

How is HDMI 2.1 better than HDMI 2.0?

As you already understand, HMDI version 2.1 is capable of transmitting and receiving much more information, and this directly affects the increase in picture resolution. The 8K and 10K formats are getting the most attention, and for good reason: 4K is significantly lower than these future resolutions. However, high resolution should be ranked last on the list of outstanding features of HDMI 2.1. Nevertheless, let's start with it, although the other advantages of HDMI 2.1 are still more important. This standard will allow us to get a more beautiful picture and an AV system that is as easy to use as possible.

Permission: HDMI 2.1 provides higher resolution and higher frame rates. Version 2.1 will give us 4K at 120Hz, 8K at 60Hz and even 10K for commercial installations. Increasing resolution isn't that important for our TVs and projectors - we're already close to the point where our eyes can no longer see the difference from normal viewing distances. However, high frame rates are important - which is good news for gamers. And representatives of the HDMI Forum organization say that some Hollywood directors, for example, Peter Jackson, are thinking about switching to 120 Hz. Moreover, they want content with this shooting frequency to be available to viewers not only in cinemas, but also at home.

eARC: The existing HDMI ARC standard already opens up the possibility for us to transmit audio from a TV to a receiver or soundbar and vice versa, but limited bandwidth in most cases allows the signal to be transmitted only compressed and mixed to two channels.

You definitely can’t broadcast full-fledged Dolby Atmos or DTS:X over ARC. The advent of eARC will make it possible not to compress audio, transmitting it in high resolution via HDMI 2.1. This feature will greatly simplify the installation of components: users will be able to connect any devices to the TV and output the signal via one HDMI cable to the receiver or soundbar. Fewer cables - less clutter, more quality sound!

Dynamic HDR: High dynamic range (HDR) is the biggest picture improvement since Full HD, but it can be even better. If you're familiar with Dolby's version of HDR, Dolby Vision, then you might know that many experts consider this format superior to others. The thing is that Dolby Vision can use dynamic metadata. In other words, this format constantly changes the dynamic range of the picture depending on what is happening on the screen. As a result, we get a more accurate, bright and, of course, dynamic image.

The only downside is that Dolby Vision is a proprietary technology, and not every manufacturer wants to pay for the license. The new version of HDMI 2.1 is suitable for all types of HDR, including standard HDR10 and more advanced Technicolor HDR.

Variable Refresh Rate (dynamically changing the refresh rate): Gamers will be happy because now they will be able to play in 4K, and there will be no distortion or lag, but only a smooth UHD picture.

Quick Frame Transport: this technology will reduce input lag. First-person shooters will be transformed, as will VR games, which will reach new heights.

Quick Media Switching: everyone familiar with the blank black screen when switching sources (for example, from a set-top box to a streaming service)? This will no longer happen - QMS will reduce switching time as much as possible.

Discrepancy between audio and video: Today such a problem exists. The TV does not always work in sync with the receiver or soundbar. The fact is that a TV takes more time to process the signal than an audio system, which copes with the task in a short time. As a result, we get lagging video (sometimes it happens the other way around, but the essence is the same - the sound does not match the image). The HDMI 2.1 interface will allow the TV to exchange data with AV receivers, sound bars, players, game consoles and other devices in real time, which guarantees constant perfect synchronization.

So that was a short review of HDMI 2.1. As you can see, the new standard opens up many opportunities. It's up to the manufacturers to decide how exactly they will take advantage of the new version of HDMI so that we can enjoy the results. As is often the case in the world of technology, keeping up with industry changes is just as exciting as using new products.

HDMI 2.0 specification details

HDMI is gradually becoming the most common method of interconnecting components in home systems, and will remain so for the foreseeable future, continuing to develop despite reasonable criticism or extremely positive feedback. The HDMI Forum, the organization developing the HDMI standard, has finally announced the introduction of version 2.0 of the HDMI specification - a predicted and long-awaited event, since the A/V industry is confidently moving towards 4K/UltraHD and new devices need standardized support for this modern format. New functionality includes:

4K@50/60, (2160p), which provides four times better clarity than 1080p/60 video resolution;

Supports up to 32 audio channels for comprehensive, high-quality audio;

Sampling rates up to 1536 kHz for the highest quality audio playback;

Simultaneous transmission of two video streams to one screen for multiple users;

Simultaneous transmission of multi-stream audio for several users (up to 4);

Supports wide-angle theatrical aspect ratio (21:9);

Dynamic synchronization of audio and video streams;

CEC (Communication Communications Bus) add-ons that provide advanced control of consumer electronic devices through a single control point.

One of the main features of HDMI 2.0 is its emphasis on the rapidly increasing number of new 4K displays and 4K content options. To extend 4K support beyond 24 fps (HDMI 1.4b maximum), HDMI 2.0 bandwidth is increased to 18 Gb/s (10.2 Gb/s HDMI 1.4b). With HDMI 2.0, 4K video will support 50 or 60 fps, while rumors of a possible 120 fps have not been confirmed.

HDMI 2.0 is backward compatible with earlier versions of the HDMI specification and does not require new cables or new connectors. The streaming version of high-speed HDMI cables (Category 2) provides increased bandwidth.

The increase in bandwidth was implemented not only to support UltraHD. In fact, HDMI 2.0 brings new video playback capabilities. The first is the simultaneous transmission of two video streams to one display for multiple users. Obviously, for such a mode, active or polarized glasses will be used, as in 3D. Secondly, avid film buffs will also be pleased with the appearance of version 2.0, as it opens up a wide, literally, perspective for them - a theatrical aspect ratio of 21:9. Third, additions to the bidirectional serial bus (CEC) will provide enhanced control of home system devices through a single control point.

While functional video support in HDMI 2.0 was expected and long announced, the new audio capabilities were a pleasant surprise. The sound became 32-channel instead of the current 8-channel. Support for 8 channels remains in effect, and in multi-streaming mode for 4 users simultaneously. The sampling frequency has been increased to 1536 kHz.

The fact that the updated specification provides such impressive capabilities does not mean that manufacturers will rush headlong to implement them. HDMI 2.0 is more of a roadmap for the future for developers who want to be at the forefront of new technologies. No less interesting is the question of which HDMI 2.0 innovations manufacturers will unanimously approve and support.

The main driving force behind HDMI is the HDMI Forum, which consists of 88 consumer electronics companies. Mass release of devices supporting HDMI 2.0 is expected this year.

Q: Do existing HDMI cables support HDMI 2.0 high bandwidth?

A: Yes, High Speed ​​HDMI cables support the higher bandwidth of the new specification (up to 18 Gbps).

HDMI 2.0 defines a new, efficient way to transmit signals at speeds above those allowed in version 1.4b (10.2 Gbps), providing higher bandwidth (up to 18 Gbps) over existing HDMI cables.

Q: Will HDMI 2.0 replace previous versions?

A: No, HDMI 2.0 implementation requires HDMI 1.x support as a baseline requirement.

Q: Is HDMI 2.0 backward compatible with HDMI 1.x?

A: Yes, all new HDMI versions are backward compatible with previous versions.

Q: Do HDMI 2.0 require new connectors?

A: No, HDMI 2.0 uses existing ones.

Q: Do HDMI 2.0 require new cables?

A: No, existing ones are suitable. To transmit 4K video (3840x2160) at 50/60 fps, you must use high-speed HDMI cables (Category 2).

Q: Can I upgrade my HDMI 1.x device to HDMI 2.0?

A: Currently there is no such update option. Due to the expanded feature set, such a conversion will require hardware and software upgrades - this is the responsibility of the manufacturer.

HDMI 1.3, 1.4

Q: What is the difference between HDMI1.3, HDMI1.3aand 1.3b?

ABOUT: For the user, there is no difference between the HDMI versions, be it 1.3, 1.3a or 1.3b. Small differences in specifications are usually relevant to production or testing, but do not introduce new features. Plus, the HDMI licensing body is actively working with manufacturers to reduce consumer confusion and suggests not focusing on versions at all, but instead focusing on useful product features and functionality.

The latest HDMI specification code is v1.3a, and the latest HDMI compatibility test is 1.3c.

Q: Does HDMI supporttransmission of encoded subtitles?

A: Subtitles

The transition from analogue to digital television made it possible to add new capabilities for transmitting encoded subtitles (Close Captioning).

Analogue television had one standard for broadcasting and transmitting, decoding and displaying content - NTSC or PAL, depending on the region, which made connecting subtitles on television devices quite simple - after all, any TV provided the ability to decode them.

With the advent of digital television and various services related to high-definition television (HDTV), for example, such as cable TV, satellite TV, etc., the responsibility for deciphering encoded subtitles was “removed” from television devices. Now special digital TV decoders have begun to perform this function. These devices are needed to provide access to most digital HD television services. These decoders have different technologies for decoding encoded subtitles, which complicates the use of subtitles and creates confusion for TV users. All decoders must support subtitles, but the technology for supporting different devices varies greatly. Depending on this, it may be easy to connect subtitles on some decoders, but difficult on others.

To resolve this issue, the HDMI licensing authority recommends that you first contact your television service provider (cable, satellite, etc.) and ask their support team about the technology for connecting subtitles. After this, contact your TV device manufacturer for instructions on how to connect subtitles specifically for your device.

HDMIAndcodedsubtitles

Closed Captioning is a technology that works differently with different digital standards (HDMI, DVI, etc.)

How subtitles worked on old analog devices
The broadcast source always sent information about encoded subtitles to the TV device, and it controlled the presence or absence of subtitles (they could be turned on or off with one button on the remote control - “Subtitles”). The Subtitles button controls the display of subtitles only with an analog connection (S-Video, Composite, Component) or with a wireless tuner (digital ATSC or analog NTSC).

How subtitles work on HDMI-enabled devicesand other digital connections
On HDMI-enabled devices, you cannot turn subtitles on or off using the Subtitles button on the remote control. To enable subtitles, you need to activate them at the broadcast source - do this with the source’s remote control button, for example, the same “Subtitles” button, or through the source settings menu. After this, the source will overlay information about subtitles on the video sequence and, using HDMI, will transmit the resulting double picture to the TV.

Rendering of encoded subtitles also occurs at the level of the broadcast source, and not at the level of the television device itself, as was the case with analogue televisions. For example, in a typical cable TV box, subtitles are turned on by the corresponding command in the settings menu of the box itself, and not by the “Subtitles” button on the TV remote control. Let us emphasize again: the TV remote control only controls subtitles on analog TV, and cannot control subtitles on any HDMI-enabled device. Encoded subtitles must be enabled directly in the HDMI device menu. At the same time, each manufacturer has its own exact instructions for turning on subtitles, so it is better to contact the manufacturer’s representative directly.

IN:Whatis HDMI?

ABOUT: HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is the first and only industry standard that provides a unified digital audio-video transmission interface without data compression. HDMI allows you to transmit both video and audio in digital format over one cable, in stunningly clear, high quality, which makes connecting and transferring data incredibly simple and allows you to provide the consumer with a home theater effect with the highest transmission quality when watching or listening. HDMI is a universal interface for any audio and video sources, be it a digital television decoder, DVD player, A/V receiver, monitor, digital TV (DTV), etc. And all this using a single cable.

HDMI supports standard, enhanced, high-definition video, and multi-channel digital audio over a single cable. All ATSC HDTV standards and 8-channel, uncompressed 192 kHz digital audio and all currently available compressed audio formats (such as Dolby Digital and DTS) are supported. HDMI 1.3 also supports new broadband, so-called. “lossless” digital audio formats: Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio™, which allows you to take into account even those requirements that may arise for sound in the future.

• HDMIis a generally accepted digital HD transmission standardcontent for all consumer electronics: More than 700 companies already support this standard; in 2008, 200 million HDMI-enabled devices were released, and by the end of 2010, more than a billion HDMI devices were on sale
• Merge - HDMI is an interface that allows personal computers and consumer electronics devices to be used together: HDMI makes it possible to receive the highest quality media content using a computer, including HD movies and multi-channel audio formats. HDMI is the only interface that allows you to connect to both HD TVs and computer monitors, and transmit content using DVI and HDMI standards.
• Development - HDMIConstantly evolving in accordance with new market needs: Products that support the latest HDMI versions are always fully compatible with all earlier HDMI versions.

IN:Whosupports HDMI?

ABOUT: HDMI developers include leading consumer electronics manufacturers such as Hitachi, Panasonic Corporation, Philips, Sony, Thomson (RCA), Toshiba, and Silicon Image. In addition, HDMI is supported by major movie producers such as Fox, Universal, Warner Bros., Disney and television operators DirecTV, EchoStar (Dish Network) and CableLabs.

Q: What are the advantages of HDMIahead of existing analog video interfaces such as Composite, S-Video, Componentvideo?

Quality: Because HDMI is a digital interface, it provides the best video quality because it does not suffer from loss in video conversion from analog to digital, as happens with other analog interfaces (such as Component or S-video). The difference is especially noticeable at higher resolutions, starting at 1080p. Digital video is clearer than when using Component, and the blur and ghosting that occurs when using Component is completely eliminated. Small, high-contrast details, such as text, make this difference very significant.

Ease of use: HDMI carries video and multi-channel audio over a single cable, eliminating the costly, complex and confusing multi-cable transmission used in A/V systems. This is especially beneficial if you need to upgrade or add equipment.

"Smart" system: HDMI supports two-way communication between a video source (such as a DVD player) and a DTV, adding new features to devices such as auto-configuration and one-touch control. With HDMI support, devices automatically select the optimal format (such as 480 or 720p, 16:9 or 4:3) for the screen they are connected to - eliminating the need for users to scroll through all the format options to find the right one.

Ideal for HDcontent: HDMI devices with HDCP support provide peace of mind that you can enjoy the highest quality HD content now and in the future. The advent of HD-DVD and Blu-ray delayed the emergence of copyright protection for media content on current HD films, as it was necessary to minimize the problems associated with the transition to another standard. But such facilities are expected to be introduced within a few years, meaning that future HD movies will not be able to be viewed in HD quality using non-security interfaces such as the analog Component interface.

Q: What new features have appeared in each subsequent version of HDMI?

ABOUT: Below is an overview of the main new features added to each HDMI version:

HDMI 1.1:

• DVD Audio support.

HDMI 1.2:

• New options and capabilities that allow you to use HDMI with both computers and consumer electronics devices. Namely, HDMI 1.2 supports One Bit Audio formats, such as SuperAudio Direct Stream Digital for CD, and is optimized to work with existing and future computer configurations with HDMI ports: in particular, there is a widely used HDMI Type A connector for computers and computers. monitors, which thanks to this can work with the “native” RGB palette and at the same time with the YCbCr television palette. It also meets the requirement (from HDMI 1.2 and later) to be able to work with low voltage sources, for example, those coupled via AC to sources using PCI Express I/O technology.

HDMI 1.2a:

• Now the standard fully meets all requirements for compliance of functionality, command sets and tests with the Consumer Electronic Control (CEC) standard.
• The creation of HDMI 1.2a and its associated compliance testing specification resulted in HDMI devices being released to be fully CEC compliant. HDMI version 1.2a has been updated to comply with the recently released HDMI 1.2a specification.
• What is very important, version 1.2a tests involve additional testing of cables and connectors for compliance with the requirements of an authorized testing center, Authorized Testing Center (ATC). Specifically, in version 1.2a, device manufacturers are required to test all HDMI cables that are longer than previously tested at ATC.
• In addition, the product licensing body, HDMI Licensing, will maintain a list of approved connectors. In order for a device to pass ATC Version 1.2a testing, all connectors on that device must be from this approved list. To add a connector to this list, the supplier must submit an application to ATC or HDMI Licensing and provide positive testing results.

HDMI 1.3:

• Higher speed: HDMI 1.3 increases the channel width to 340 MHz (10.2 Gb/s), which allows us to talk about meeting the requirements of even future HD devices with higher resolution, support for Deep Color technology and increased frame refresh rates. Also, the specification provided for HDMI 1.3 from a technical point of view provides the basis for the creation of future versions of HDMI, which will be able to achieve significantly higher speeds.
• Deep technologyColor: HDMI 1.3 supports 10-bit, 12-bit and 16-bit (RGB or YCbCr) color depths, up from the 8-bit color depths of previous versions of the HDMI specification, enabling unparalleled over a billion colors and unprecedented detail.
• New mini connector:
• LipSync: As consumer electronics devices use increasingly sophisticated digital signal processing technologies to enhance the clarity and detail of content, synchronizing audio and video across end devices has become challenging. This could require some complex and time-consuming settings from users. HDMI 1.3 provides the possibility of automatic audio synchronization, which allows this work to be done completely correctly without user intervention.
• New "lossless""("lossless") HDaudio formats: In addition to HDMI's current capabilities to support wideband uncompressed digital audio, as well as all available compressed audio formats (such as Dolby® Digital and DTS®), HDMI 1.3 also supports the new "lossless" compressed digital audio formats Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio™.

Q: Are all the new versions of HDMIcompatible with previous versions?

ABOUT: Yes, all HDMI versions are fully backward compatible.

Q: What's new in the HDMI specification 1.3?

• Higher speed: While all previous versions of HDMI had more than enough bandwidth to support all available HDTV formats, including full, uncompressed 1080p, HDMI 1.3 increases the channel width to 340 MHz (10.2 Gb/sec), allowing for meeting the requirements of even future HD devices with higher resolutions, support for Deep Color technology and increased frame rates. Also, the specification provided for HDMI 1.3 from a technical point of view provides the basis for the creation of future versions of HDMI, which will be able to achieve significantly higher speeds.
  • Deep technologyColor: HDMI 1.3 supports 10-bit, 12-bit and 16-bit (RGB or YCbCr) color depths, up from the 8-bit color depths of previous versions of the HDMI specification, enabling unrivaled reproduction of more than one billion colors and unprecedented detail.
  • Wider color range: HDMI 1.3 supports x.v.Color™ (the name of the IEC 61966-2-4 xvYCC color standard), which eliminates existing color limitations and allows you to see on the screen all the shades that the human eye can distinguish.
  • New mini connector: For small, portable devices such as HD camcorders and cameras that require an easy, reliable connection to an HDTV, HDMI 1.3 offers a new connector in a smaller form factor.
  • LipSync: As consumer electronics devices use increasingly sophisticated digital signal processing technologies to enhance the clarity and detail of content, synchronizing audio and video across end devices has become much more challenging. This could require some complex and time-consuming settings from users. HDMI 1.3 provides the possibility of automatic audio synchronization, which allows this work to be done absolutely correctly without user intervention.
  • New "lossless""("lossless") HDaudio formats: In addition to HDMI's current capabilities to support wideband uncompressed digital audio, as well as all available compressed audio formats (such as Dolby® Digital and DTS®), HDMI 1.3 also supports Dolby's new "lossless" compressed digital audio formats TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio™.

Q: What tests are required?

ABOUT: Before mass-producing and widely selling any licensed product or component that claims to comply with the HDMI specification (or permitting third parties to do so), the manufacturer must first test a prototype for HDMI compliance. First of all, the manufacturer must carry out its own testing, as specified in the then current version of the tests for compliance with the HDMI specification. The HDMI Specification Test involves a battery of tests and establishes certain minimum requirements that specify how an HDMI device manufacturer must test licensed products for compliance with the HDMI Specification. Such testing is limited to compliance with the HDMI specification and is not intended to evaluate the overall performance of the licensed product.

After this, the manufacturer must submit the first copy of the licensed product model (for example, signal source, signal regenerator, cable, etc.) to the Authorized Testing Center (ATC) of HDMI standardization for testing. Once an instance of a product passes testing, subsequent instances of the same type of device no longer need to be submitted to ATC. However, manufacturers must continually test their products themselves to ensure they comply with the HDMI specification. Here's an example: after a manufacturer's TV has passed the ATC test, other similar TVs no longer need to be subjected to this procedure. However, to help ensure full HDMI compatibility, manufacturers are encouraged to use ATC services more frequently.

Q: Is HDMI compatible?with earlier DVI standard(DigitalVisualInterface)?

ABOUT: Yes, HDMI is fully compatible with devices compatible with the older DVI standard. Thus, HDMI DTV TVs can display video from DVI-equipped devices, and at the same time, DVI-equipped TVs can display video from HDMI sources. At the same time, some older computer models that support DVI can only transmit the signal to computer monitors, but not to televisions. So, when buying a computer with DVI, you should make sure that it also supports television formats, and not just formats for computer monitors.

In addition, the consumer should make sure that the device with a DVI interface also supports HDCP digital content protection, since any content that requires HDCP copy protection requires both the HDMI device and the DVI device to support HDCP for normal viewing.

Q: Can HDMIwork with long cable lengths?

ABOUT: Yes. HDMI technology is designed to use a fairly long standard copper cable. To enable cable manufacturers to make better new products using new technologies, the creators of the HDMI standard specify the required cable quality characteristics, but do not limit its length. A range of cable samples have been tested for HDMI compatibility, with lengths of up to 10 meters without the use of signal repeaters. In fact, it depends not only on the cable what maximum length it can effectively transmit HDMI, but also to a large extent on the receiver chip in the television device or projector. Those chips that have a “cable performance correction” option can optimize the weakened signal and thus extend the maximum possible cable length for use with that particular device.

So, when it comes to transmitting HDMI signal over a long cable, first and foremost, a high quality cable plays the biggest role in successfully transmitting HDMI over longer distances.

Q: How does the HDMI standard work?when transmitting a signal over a cable longer than 10 meters?

ABOUT: A number of HDMI manufacturers are working on HDMI technology solutions to extend the effective cable length from the standard 10m to much longer lengths. These companies produce a variety of devices, such as "active cable" (an active electronic module built into the cable that amplifies the signal and extends the effective length), repeaters, amplifiers, and CAT5/6 and cables made from various high-tech fibers.

Q: How to tell if a cable has been tested for HDMI compatibility?

ABOUT: For all products that support HDMI, the manufacturer must obtain a certificate - this is part of the HDMI compatibility test specification. However, it may be that the cable has the HDMI logo on it, but the cable itself has not undergone the necessary testing. HDMI Licensing strives to bring such cases under control and makes every effort to ensure that the HDMI trademark is used in the marketplace only lawfully. We recommend that customers purchase cables only from reliable stores and from trusted manufacturers.

Q: What is the difference between a "standard" HDMI cableand a “high speed” HDMI cable?

ABOUT: HDMI Licensing recently announced that it will now test cables in two categories: Standard and High Speed.

• Standard (or "Category 1") HDMI cables are tested at speeds up to 75 MHz or up to 2.25 Gbps, which corresponds to a 720p/1080i signal.
• High Speed ​​(or "Category 2") HDMI cables are tested at speeds up to 340 MHz or up to 10.2 Gbps, which is the highest channel width available for an HDMI cable today. At this speed, 1080p signals can be successfully processed, including signals with increased color depth and/or increased source refresh rates. High-speed cables are also suitable for transmitting signals to high-resolution monitors, such as WQXGA home theater monitors (2560 x 1600 resolution).

Q: Where can I find the text of the Help on using the Trademark and Logo?

ABOUT: Help on using the Trademark and Logo HDMI can be read directly on the HDMI website (http://www.hdmi.org) in the Manufacturers section.

Q: Is it possible to upgrade the HDMI version on my device?(since 1.Xto v1.3)?

ABOUT: At the moment, the possibility of such an upgrade is not provided. Since the new version introduces new and improved features, such an update would also require updating the hardware and software running on that hardware. If such an update is possible, it will come from the manufacturer. Please contact the manufacturer of your devices directly.

Q: How do I know the differences between the specifications of each HDMI version??

ABOUT: Download a copy of the latest HDMI specification. At the beginning of the document there is a section called “Revision History”. In this section you can read about all the changes that have occurred in the new versions of the specifications.

IN:INhowdifferencebetween DVIand HDMI?

ABOUT: HDMI is the same as DVI, but with additional benefits:

• Audio transmission (up to 8 channels, uncompressed)
• Smaller connector
• YUV color palette support
• Availability of mandatory CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) control
• CEA-861B InfoFrames

Q: Like HDMIchanges the way it connects to other entertainment system components?

ABOUT: The most obvious and glaring difference is how HDMI changes the way it connects to different equipment - it's installation. One cable replaces up to 11 analog cables, which radically simplifies the installation of a home theater or other equipment, not to mention the fact that the fewer wires, the more aesthetically pleasing the equipment looks.

In addition, when the buyer turns on a system connected using HDMI, he immediately sees a higher quality image - because it is not compressed during transmission or converted from digital to analog or vice versa.

Finally, thanks to HDMI's ability to communicate two-way, components connected via HDMI can constantly "talk" to each other in the background, exchanging important technical information, which helps them optimize the transmission of content at the best quality, without the user having to conjure up numerous settings . The HDMI specification also gives manufacturers the ability to enable CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) functionality, a set of commands that, thanks to two-way HDMI communication, allows for unified remote control of all CEC devices connected via HDMI. For example, CEC can enable one-touch play, so that one press of the Play button on your DVD will send the necessary commands over HDMI to the entire system, and it will configure itself to start working when it turns on. CEC has a large number of common commands, and manufacturers that support CEC must ensure that these common commands are valid for all devices, regardless of their manufacturer.

CEC, however, is an optional feature, so if the buyer is interested in such a feature, he will have to make sure that it is included in the lists of functionality of the selected product. In addition, it is important to know that some manufacturers assign their own names to the CEC instruction sets in their equipment.

Q: Any questions about HDMI? Should you ask a buyer when he goes to choose a new consumer electronics device, or a computer?

ABOUT: To evaluate HDMI in a consumer electronics device, answers to the following questions are important.

• How many inputs and outputs do I need?

o There are more and more input and output ports on components as more and more devices are connected using HDMI. For HD TVs today, it is typical to have 3 or 4 input ports - many models have one of these connectors located on the side or front, so that it is convenient to connect a game console or other mobile device, say, a camera or camcorder. Always consider the number of signal sources and screens or projectors that will be included in your home theater system and ensure that the device you choose has enough input and output connections to meet your requirements both now and in the future.

o For those who have only 1 or 2 input ports in their already purchased system, if you suddenly need more of them, you can purchase an HDMI switch - an adapter from several input connectors (sources) to one output (your screen).

• Think about the features you need, not the HDMI version.

o HDMI is constantly evolving to meet market demands. More and more new features are constantly being added to the standard, which manufacturers can implement at will. But the HDMI standard does not require manufacturers to use absolutely everything that HDMI is capable of. In fact, HDMI provides a wide range of options and allows manufacturers to choose which options are best suited to a particular product line.

Therefore, HDMI recommends that consumers look for products with the features they want rather than components with a specific HDMI version. The version number indicates the capabilities, but does not completely reflect the functions of the product. For example, if you want to enjoy the new "Deep Color" video feature, look for it in a product's specifications rather than browsing through all the products that support HDMI 1.3—even though this version of the specification is the first to support Deep Color. Why? Yes, because the version of the specification that supports Deep Color (1.3) does not guarantee that the Deep Color function will be implemented in this particular product.

However, it is also important to note that all versions of HDMI are backward compatible, meaning that no matter what version of HDMI is supported by a given component, all HDMI-enabled devices will still work with it, and all possible common features will be available.

Q: Does HDMI supportcollaboration between computers and consumer electronics devices?

ABOUT: Fully. HDMI is based on the same technology as DVI (Digital Visual Interface), a digital connection standard for computers. So HDMI is fully compatible with all computers that support DVI (since HDMI carries both video and audio over one cable, while DVI only carries video, an additional audio cable is required for the DVI-HDMI connection).

HDMI allows you to stream the highest quality media content from your computers, including high-definition movies and multi-channel audio formats. HDMI is the only interface that allows connection to both HDTVs and computer monitors, and still supports both DVI and HDMI standards - so it is fully compatible with the hundreds of millions of DVI-enabled monitors sold on the market.