Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What is HDMI?

A: High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is the first industry-supported, un-compressed, all-digital audio/video interface. HDMI provides an interface between any audio/video source, such as a set-top box, DVD player, A/V receiver, or audio and/or video monitor over a single cable. HDMI is based on DVI technology making it fully backwards compatible with computers, displays, and consumer electronics devices that utilize the Digital Visual Interface (DVI) standard. HDMI supports VESA's Extended Display Identification Data (EDID) standard and Display Data Channel (DDC) standard, which is used to read the EDID. HDMI supports the High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) specifications to dissuade copying of unauthorized content.

HDMI Benefits:

  • No Compression, no conversion high-definition video. HDMI has the ability to support existing high-definition video formats (720p, 1080i, and even 1080p). HDMI is also accommodating enough to support enhanced definition (EDTV) formats and standard definition (SDTV) formats such as NTSC or PAL.
  • 100 percent pure digital picture and sound direct from the source. Video and audio signal remains digital from transmission device to display device
  • Compressed or uncompressed multi-channel audio, audio support is made up of 1-8 uncompressed audio streams with sample rates of up to 48, 96 or 192 kHz. This is somewhat dependant on the video arrangement and/or format.
  • Bandwidth to spare for HDTV, over two times 1080i bandwidth, equal to 5 Gbps of bandwidth.
  • Only one cable required. All HD video and audio in is included in one cable, replacing up to 8 audio and 5 video cables. Reduced wiring complexity for ease of consumer connectivity.
  • TV and AV receivers can adjust without intervention, if supported by all components.
  • Video source receives the display's supported video formats, and outputs the optimal audio and video format, all within the standard signal transmission for better continuity between components.
  • A popular interface enabling the transmission of high-definition content. HDMI opens the floodgate of digital content from major motion picture producers.
  • Cable manufacturers are expected to sell reasonably priced copper cables at lengths of up to 15 meters.