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Nederlands (Nederland)HDMI connectivity guide: Choosing the right solution for your setup
You have probably experienced this before: you want to show a presentation on multiple screens at the same time, or you need to connect several devices to a single display. Maybe you have to send a video signal over a long distance, connect equipment with different interfaces, or even operate a computer remotely as if you were sitting right next to it. In all these situations, HDMI plays a crucial role. With the right accessories, such as splitters, switches, extenders, converters, or special cable solutions like HDMI over fiber and AOC HDMI cables, you can make your setup more flexible and reliable. On this knowledge page, we explain the different options step by step, helping you discover which solution best fits your application.
HDMI solutions:
HDMI splitters: What is an HDMI splitter and when do you need one?
An HDMI splitter is a hardware device that duplicates a single HDMI video signal and sends it to multiple displays simultaneously. It is the ideal solution for showing the same content—such as a presentation or digital signage—on 2, 4, or 8 screens at once without losing signal quality.
Our ACT splitters support modern standards including HDMI 2.0b, 4K UHD resolution at 60Hz, and HDCP 2.2, ensuring compatibility with the latest media players and gaming consoles.
Our ACT splitters support modern standards including HDMI 2.0b, 4K UHD resolution at 60Hz, and HDCP 2.2, ensuring compatibility with the latest media players and gaming consoles.
Applications:
- Digital signage (for example in stores, restaurants, or airports)
- Trade show booths and events (multiple screens displaying the same content)
- Sports bars or hospitality venues (live sports shown on multiple TVs)
- Educational environments (teaching materials displayed on multiple screens in a classroom)
- Video walls (large screen setups for promotion or information)
- Corporate communication (information shown on multiple screens in an office or lobby)
Key specifications:
- Supported resolution (4K, Full HD, etc.)
- HDCP support (for protected content such as Blu-ray)
- EDID support
- Number of outputs (1x2, 1x4)
HDMI Switches: Managing multiple sources with one display
What is an HDMI Switch?
An HDMI switch is the essential hardware solution for setups where the number of source devices—such as laptops, gaming consoles, and media streamers—exceeds the available HDMI inputs on a television, projector, or monitor. Unlike a splitter, which duplicates one signal to many screens, a switch allows you to toggle between multiple sources and display them on a single screen without manually swapping cables.
Streamlining Your Media Setup
Whether you are managing a complex home cinema or a professional meeting room, an HDMI switch acts as a central hub. It preserves signal integrity while offering the convenience of switching between a 4K Blu-ray player, a PlayStation 5, and a work laptop at the press of a button or via an automated sensor.
An HDMI switch is the essential hardware solution for setups where the number of source devices—such as laptops, gaming consoles, and media streamers—exceeds the available HDMI inputs on a television, projector, or monitor. Unlike a splitter, which duplicates one signal to many screens, a switch allows you to toggle between multiple sources and display them on a single screen without manually swapping cables.
Streamlining Your Media Setup
Whether you are managing a complex home cinema or a professional meeting room, an HDMI switch acts as a central hub. It preserves signal integrity while offering the convenience of switching between a 4K Blu-ray player, a PlayStation 5, and a work laptop at the press of a button or via an automated sensor.
Strategic applications :
- AV Racks and Meeting Room Setups: Ideal for corporate environments where multiple presenters need to share a single projector or large-format display.
- Home Theater and Gaming: Perfect for modern living rooms, allowing users to consolidate high-performance devices like streaming boxes and consoles onto one TV input.
- Educational Environments: Enables teachers to switch seamlessly between a document camera, a PC, and a tablet during a lecture.
- Trade Shows and Events: Simplifies the management of various demo units being showcased on a single large-scale display.
Technical Performance & Key Specifications:
To meet the demands of modern high-bandwidth content, professional switches should include:- Intelligent Source Selection: Features both manual button switching and automatic switching, which detects and activates the newest powered-on signal.
- Scalable Input Density: Available in configurations for 2, 3, 4, or 5+ input devices.
- High-Resolution Integrity: Support for the latest resolution and refresh rates (e.g., 4K at 60Hz or 120Hz) to ensure zero lag for gaming and professional video.
- Remote Management: Many units include an IR remote control, allowing for effortless switching from across the room.
HDMI extenders: Solving distance challenges in professional AV setups
What is an HDMI Extender?
An HDMI extender is a specialized hardware solution designed to transmit high-definition video and audio signals over distances that exceed the physical limits of standard HDMI cables. While standard cables often experience signal loss or "flickering" over long runs, extenders bridge gaps of 50 to 150 meters (or more) without any degradation in quality.
Why Use an HDMI Extender?
In environments such as large meeting rooms, control centers, or event venues, the source device is frequently located far from the display. An HDMI extender ensures a stable connection by converting the signal for transmission over robust infrastructure like network cabling (CAT6/CAT7) or existing IP networks.
An HDMI extender is a specialized hardware solution designed to transmit high-definition video and audio signals over distances that exceed the physical limits of standard HDMI cables. While standard cables often experience signal loss or "flickering" over long runs, extenders bridge gaps of 50 to 150 meters (or more) without any degradation in quality.
Why Use an HDMI Extender?
In environments such as large meeting rooms, control centers, or event venues, the source device is frequently located far from the display. An HDMI extender ensures a stable connection by converting the signal for transmission over robust infrastructure like network cabling (CAT6/CAT7) or existing IP networks.
Key Technical Specifications for Pro-AV:
- Resolution Support: Full compatibility with high refresh rates and ultra-high-definition resolutions.
- HDMI Local Loop Function: Select models include an additional HDMI output on the transmitter unit, allowing you to connect a local monitor for real-time signal monitoring.
- IR Passthrough: Allows you to manage your source devices remotely from the display location using standard remote controls.
- Advanced Audio Support: Full passthrough for high-quality audio formats, including Stereo and Dolby Digital.
- Network Infrastructure: Professional AV over IP solutions require a stable and reliable network backbone to ensure zero-latency performance.
Primary HDMI Extension Technologies
To choose the right solution for your application, it is important to understand the two main variants:1. HDMI over CAT6/CAT7 (Point-to-Point)
This is the most reliable choice for fixed, direct installations.
This is the most reliable choice for fixed, direct installations.
- Transmission: Uses a dedicated copper network cable (UTP) between a transmitter and receiver.
- Distance: Supports reliable signal transmission up to 50–150 meters, depending on the desired resolution.
- Installation: Features a "Plug & Play" design, requiring no complex network configuration.
2. HDMI over IP (Point-to-Multipoint)
Ideal for complex, flexible AV setups in larger buildings.
Ideal for complex, flexible AV setups in larger buildings.
- Transmission: Distributes HDMI signals across your existing local area network (LAN).
- Scalability: Supports both point-to-point and multicast configurations, allowing one source to be sent to multiple receivers simultaneously.
- Flexibility: Perfect for dynamic environments where displays need to be added or moved easily.
HDMI KVM extenders: Remote control and hardware management
What is an HDMI KVM Extender?
An HDMI KVM extender (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) is a professional-grade solution designed to extend high-definition video and audio alongside USB data signals. This technology allows a user to operate a computer, server, or media player from a remote location using a single set of peripherals (monitor, keyboard, and mouse). By bridging the gap between the hardware and the operator, KVM extenders provide a seamless, "local-feel" experience over long distances.
The Power of Remote Operation
KVM extenders are the standard for environments where hardware needs to be centralized or secured. Whether you are moving a noisy PC to a server room or operating industrial machinery from a clean office, these devices ensure that distance does not compromise control. Using high-speed copper (CAT6) or fiber optic cabling, they deliver real-time responsiveness essential for professional workflows.
An HDMI KVM extender (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) is a professional-grade solution designed to extend high-definition video and audio alongside USB data signals. This technology allows a user to operate a computer, server, or media player from a remote location using a single set of peripherals (monitor, keyboard, and mouse). By bridging the gap between the hardware and the operator, KVM extenders provide a seamless, "local-feel" experience over long distances.
The Power of Remote Operation
KVM extenders are the standard for environments where hardware needs to be centralized or secured. Whether you are moving a noisy PC to a server room or operating industrial machinery from a clean office, these devices ensure that distance does not compromise control. Using high-speed copper (CAT6) or fiber optic cabling, they deliver real-time responsiveness essential for professional workflows.
Applications:
To ensure maximum reliability and performance, professional HDMI KVM solutions incorporate several key technologies:- Zero-Latency USB Extension: Designed to support HID (Human Interface Devices), ensuring that keyboard and mouse inputs are transmitted instantaneously. Advanced models may also support high-speed USB 2.0 for data peripherals.
- Uncompromised Video Quality: Support for 4K Ultra HD and high-bandwidth HDMI standards ensures that the remote display is as sharp and clear as a direct connection
- Local Monitoring (Loop-out): Many KVM transmitters feature a local HDMI output, allowing an administrator to monitor the source locally while the operator works at the remote station.
- Integrated Power Solutions (PoC/PoE): Streamline installations by sending power over the same cable as the data, often requiring only a single power adapter for the entire set.
- Smart EDID Management: Built-in EDID emulation ensures the source device always recognizes the optimal resolution of the remote display, preventing signal drops or resolution mismatches.
- Signal Integrity & Security: Utilizing dedicated point-to-point cabling or secure AV-over-IP protocols to protect data and maintain a stable connection in interference-heavy environments.
Key specifications:
- Type of connection: point-to-point or via IP network
- Supported resolution and latency
- Support for USB HID (Human Interface Device, a USB device class for input devices such as keyboards and mice that allows users to interact directly with a computer)
- Extras such as RS-232 and IR passthrough
- HDMI local loop-out: This means that the transmitter unit has an additional HDMI output for connecting a local TV or monitor. The source device’s image can be displayed locally on a TV or monitor connected to the transmitter. This port can also be used to cascade to another extender.
- PoC: Power over Cable
HDMI Adapters
An HDMI adapter transforms an HDMI signal into another type of connection (or vice versa), such as DisplayPort, VGA, USB-C or DVI. This is useful when combining equipment that does not share the same type of port. It allows you to easily connect older monitors or projectors to modern sources, or the other way around.
Applications:
- Connecting devices to projectors or monitors with different input types
- Integrating equipment into existing installations
- Flexibility in mixed AV environments
Key specifications:
- Supported resolution and refresh rate
- Direction of conversion (HDMI to VGA or VGA to HDMI, etc.)
- Optional audio support
HDMI AOC Cables (Active Optical Cable)
If you want to connect a screen that is far away from your computer or media player, for example in a large meeting room or home theater, a standard HDMI cable is often too short.
An AOC HDMI cable combines copper and fiber optic technology in a single plug-and-play HDMI cable. This allows high resolutions (up to 8K) and long distances (up to approximately 100 meters) to be achieved, while keeping the cable thin, flexible, and easy to install.
An AOC HDMI cable combines copper and fiber optic technology in a single plug-and-play HDMI cable. This allows high resolutions (up to 8K) and long distances (up to approximately 100 meters) to be achieved, while keeping the cable thin, flexible, and easy to install.
Applications:
- Long HDMI connections without additional equipment
- Installations where space and flexibility are important
- 4K/8K AV solutions in offices, presentation rooms, or home theaters
- Plug & Play
Key specifications:
- Cable length and supported resolution
- Bandwidth (HDMI 2.0, 2.1, etc.)
- Support for HDR, HDCP, and ARC/eARC
HDMI over Fiber Optic
With HDMI over fiber optic, the HDMI signal is converted into an optical signal using a transmitter and receiver set, and then sent over a separate fiber optic cable. This solution can cover very long distances, up to hundreds of meters or more, and is often used in professional AV installations or large buildings.
Thanks to the high bandwidth and interference-free transmission of fiber optic technology, image and sound quality remain perfectly preserved, even at 4K or 8K resolutions. The connection between source and display is completely galvanically isolated.
Thanks to the high bandwidth and interference-free transmission of fiber optic technology, image and sound quality remain perfectly preserved, even at 4K or 8K resolutions. The connection between source and display is completely galvanically isolated.
Applications:
- Large events and trade shows
- Digital signage in stadiums or shopping centers
- Professional AV projects where long distance and reliability are essential
Key specifications:
- Maximum distance (hundreds of meters possible)
- Supported resolution (4K, 8K)
- Type of connectors and required converters
Overview – Which product should you choose and when?
| Application | Product | Details |
|---|---|---|
| One source to multiple screens | HDMI splitter | Simple distribution, e.g., for narrowcasting |
| One source over a long distance | HDMI extender | Extension via IP network or point-to-point CAT |
| Large installations with multiple zones | HDMI over IP | Flexible, scalable, ideal for digital signage, control rooms, events, hospitality, etc. |
| Multiple sources to one screen | HDMI switch | Switch between multiple HDMI sources on one display |
| Video and control over long distance | HDMI KVM extender | Control a computer or other source device remotely |
| Converting a HDMI signal | HDMI converter | Converts an HDMI signal to another connector type (or vice versa) |
| For lossless HDMI transmission over long distances | HDMI AOC | Supports cable lengths up to 100 m without signal loss |
| HDMI transmission via fiber optic over very long distances | HDMI over fiber | High bandwidth and interference-free transmission |
HDMI versions and specifications
| HDMI Version | Maximum Resolution | HDMI Category | Maximum Data Rate (Gbps) |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI 1.0 | 1920 x 1080 @ 60Hz | Standard HDMI | 4,95 Gbps |
| HDMI 1.3 | 2560 x 1440 @ 60Hz | High Speed HDMI | 10,2 Gbps |
| HDMI 1.4 | 3840 x 2160 @ 30Hz | High Speed HDMI | 10,2 Gbps |
| HDMI 2.0 | 3840 x 2160 @ 60Hz | Premium High Speed HDMI | 18,0 Gbps |
| HDMI 2.1 | 7680 x 4320 @ 60Hz | Ultra High Speed HDMI | 48,0 Gbps |
| HDMI Ultra96 | 10.240 x 4320 @ 120Hz | Ultra High Speed HDMI 96 | 96,0 Gbps |
Protocols and Standards
| Protocol / Function | Full name | HDMI 1.0 - 1.2 | HDMI 1.3 | HDMI 1.4 | HDMI 2.0 / 2.0b | HDMI 2.1 / 2.1a |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DDC | Display Data Channel | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| CEC | Consumer Electronics Control | ✅ (Base) | ✅ (improved) | ✅ | ✅ (Extensive) | ✅ |
| ARC | Audio Return Channel | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| eARC | Enhanced ARC | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌* | ✅ |
| HEC | HDMI Ethernet Channel | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| HDR | High Dynamic Range | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ (Static) | ✅ (Dynamic) |
| VRR | Variable Refresh Rate | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌* | ✅ |
| ALLM | Auto Low Latency Mode | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌* | ✅ |
| DSC | Display Stream Compression | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ (1.2) |
Protocols and standards explained:
• HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection)
Make sure your splitter/extender supports this if you are working with protected content. Streaming channels like Netflix, HBO, Disney, and many others will not play content when the connected device does not support HDCP. Imagine HDMI as the freeway and HDCP as the security checkpoint that allows only authorized content to pass. Without HDCP compliance, HDMI by itself cannot ensure secure content transmission. Other interfaces, such as DisplayPort, also support certain versions of HDCP.• DDC (Display Data Channel)
DDC (Display Data Channel) is a communication protocol that enables a monitor or TV to inform the source device (such as a PC or console) about its identity and capabilities. This is achieved through the transmission of EDID (Extended Display Identification Data). Thanks to DDC, your computer can determine that it is connected to a specific device, such as an LG TV, and understand its supported features, like 4K resolution at 60Hz. Although DDC is supported in all HDMI versions, not all HDMI products - particularly HDMI adapters - necessarily have this feature available. However, if a product's specifications mention EDID support, it implies that DDC is also present, ensuring seamless communication between devices.• EDID (Extended Display Identification Data)
This allows the source device to ‘read’ the display specifications, which is important for compatibility between devices and displays.• CEC (Consumer Electronics Control)
Some extenders/switches support CEC for easy control. CEC is an HDMI-feature that allows devices connected via HDMI to communicate and control each other using a single remote control.What can you do with CEC?
- Turn on your TV when a connected device is powered on
- Control the volume of your soundbar with the TV remote
- Turn multiple devices on or off simultaneously
• ARC vs. eARC (Audio Return Channel)
- ARC (HDMI 1.4+): Sends sound from the TV back to your receiver or soundbar via the same HDMI cable. It is limited to compressed 5.1 audio (Dolby Digital or DTS).
- eARC (HDMI 2.1): The Enhanced version. This has significantly higher bandwidth. This allows you to transmit uncompressed audio, such as Dolby Atmos (TrueHD) and DTS:X in the highest quality.
- Tip: For eARC, you need a "High Speed with Ethernet" or "Ultra High Speed" HDMI cable.
• HEC (HDMI Ethernet Channel)
- Purpose: Sharing internet connectivity via the HDMI cable. If your TV has a wired internet connection, it could theoretically pass this on to your receiver via HDMI.
- Reality: Although this has been in the specification since HDMI 1.4, it is rarely, if ever, used by manufacturers in practice. Devices typically prefer to use their own dedicated WiFi or LAN port.
• HDR (High Dynamic Range)
| Protocol / Feature | Full Name | Introduction Version |
|---|---|---|
| Static HDR | High Dynamic Range (HDR10) | HDMI 2.0a |
| Dynamic HDR | High Dynamic Range (Dolby Vision, HDR10+) | HDMI 2.1 |
Understanding HDR
Purpose: HDR significantly expands the difference between the brightest whites and the darkest blacks (contrast), along with increasing the color palette (Wide Color Gamut). This produces a much more vivid and detailed image that is closer to what the human eye perceives.
1. Static HDR (HDMI 2.0a)
Purpose: HDR significantly expands the difference between the brightest whites and the darkest blacks (contrast), along with increasing the color palette (Wide Color Gamut). This produces a much more vivid and detailed image that is closer to what the human eye perceives.
• Static vs. Dynamic Metadata
The crucial distinction for HDMI-transmission lies in the timing of the instruction data (metadata):1. Static HDR (HDMI 2.0a)
- Mechanism: The metadata contains a single set of brightness and color instructions that apply to the entire piece of content (e.g., the whole film).
- Format Example: HDR10 is the universal baseline static standard.
- Mechanism: The metadata changes frame-by-frame or scene-by-scene. This allows the display to constantly optimize contrast, resulting in superior accuracy and visual impact.
- Format Examples: Dolby Vision and HDR10+. These formats require the higher bandwidth capabilities introduced by HDMI 2.1.
• VRR & ALLM (Gaming Features)
- VRR (Variable Refresh Rate): The TV adjusts its refresh rate dynamically to match the output of the game console or PC to prevent screen tearing (image mismatch).
- ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode): The TV automatically switches to a low-latency "Game Mode" as soon as it detects a gaming signal, minimizing delay (input lag) between pressing a button and the action appearing on screen.
- Version: Standard in HDMI 2.1 (essential for PS5 and Xbox Series X).
HDMI & Audio: What you need to know?
HDMI carries not only video but also audio. Here are the main things to know about audio over HDMI:
- Video and Audio over a Single Cable: No separate audio cables needed, making the setup simpler and tidier.
- Supports Stereo and Surround Sound: HDMI can handle multi-channel audio, such as 5.1 or 7.1 surround, for a true home cinema experience.
- High Audio Quality: HDMI supports advanced lossless audio formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio.
Audio Return Channel (ARC / eARC)
- Sending Audio Back: HDMI includes the Audio Return Channel (ARC) function. This allows audio generated by the TV itself (e.g., streaming apps) to be sent back to an external soundbar or receiver via the same cable.
- eARC for Quality: The enhanced version, eARC (HDMI 2.1), is required to transmit full-bandwidth, uncompressed object-based audio like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
Ready to make the right choice?
Whether you are looking for a simple splitter, a professional HDMI-over-IP solution, or a flexible switch for your AV setup, ACT offers reliable solutions that make your installation easier.