Compare HDMI and DVI-D Cable Differences

 
HDMI and DVI-D Cable are two digital video standards used in the transmission of high-definition video, and in the case of HDMI, digital audio as well. They are frequently used for various displays in both the computer and home entertainment fields. While the picture quality of both is nearly identical, there are several differences between the two formats.
HDMI
HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface. It is an entirely digital standard and seen by many as a replacement to traditional analog standards such as SCART, coaxial cable or composite video. HDMI cables connect to electronic components via a single connector that transmits both audio and video. As the name implies, HDMI can transmit high-definition signals, supporting signals as high as 1080p (progressive scan). They are widely used today, and nearly all HDTVs, Blu-ray players and home console systems support them. Computer monitors with HDMI connectors are becoming more common as well.
DVI-D
DVI-D stands for Digital Visual Interface-Digital Only, and is an all-digital variant of the DVI format. Other DVI formats include DVI-A (analog only), DVI-I (analog and digital) and MI-DA (Digital, analog and USB). Like HDMI, DVI-D supports high-definition digital content, up to 1080p in resolution. DVI-D cables resemble traditional VGA cables in appearance, and require screws be properly attached to displays and other devices. DVI technology is the predecessor to the HDMI standard.
Differences
One of the most notable differences between HDMI and DVI-D is only HDMI can support audio. DVI-D is strictly a video format and cannot transmit any kind of audio. If a person is converting an HDMI signal to DVI-D via an adapter, they will need additional cables, such as component audio or TOSLINK. The other major difference between the two is HDMI supports a form of digital copyright protection called High Definition Content Protection (HDCP). This can make copying signals via HDMI impossible. DVI-D does not support any kind of similar copyright control method.
Compatibility
Because HDMI is derived from DVI technology, the two formats have much in common, and are in fact compatible with each other. HDMI/DVI-D adapters are very common, and allow for the conversion of one format to the other with no notable signal degradation. These converters are often used by individuals looking to connect their computer to a large HDTV display that does not have a built-in DVI-D connector. They may also be used to connect video game consoles, which typically only have HDMI support, to monitors with DVI-D connectors.
Usage
Usage of HDMI Cable has become incredibly pervasive over the years, and the electronics industry has successfully pushed for it to become the de facto high-definition cable standard. DVI-D cables are still widely used in the computer industry, though, and are more commonly seen as HD connectors for video cards and computer monitors. It is not entirely uncommon to see DVI connectors on HDTVs today, making it possible to connect a computer to a large HDTV instead of an LCD monitor without the use of special HDMI/DVI adapters.

How to Use HDMI Converter Cables and Adapters

 
HDMI Cables are the easiest way to make connections for a rapidly growing number of consumer electronics devices. All new HDTVs and DVD and Blu-ray players come with HDMI ports. At an increasing rate, portable devices like digital cameras, camcorders and cell phones have a form of the interface included. Computers, monitors and gaming systems are also adopting the interface.
For devices that are equipped with standard HDMI ports, connection is simply a matter of connecting the cable. Beyond just the cable, however, there are a number of accessories available that can help consumers customize HDMI connectivity to meet special circumstances.
Some devices, particularly portable ones, may have smaller versions of HDMI which require an adapter. Many older products are equipped with connectors that can be easily adapted to HDMI with the use of cables or converters. This article will help you decide what is necessary and available to make the most of HDMI connectivity.
The short answer is yes but it the type of format determines the conversion method that’s needed. Other formats that one is likely to want to hook up to an HDMI connection include DVI, VGA, USB, Component and S-Video.
DVI
DVI, or Digital Video Interface, connections are a popular, high-quality way to make the connection between graphics cards and LCD or LED monitors. They’re also used to connect HDTVs to components like Blu-ray players. In that both signals are digital, conversion of HDMI to DVI is simply a matter of installing a HDMI to DVI conversion cable. There is one caveat, however. Whereas HDMI carries both video and audio signals, DVI transports only video so separate audio cables are required.
VGA
Video Graphics Array, better known as VGA, is a very common way of connecting computers to monitors. If you want to connect a computer, whether laptop or desktop, to a HDTV, a VGA to HDMI converter is likely to be the best bet. The process is more complex than converting DVI to HDMI because the VGA signal is analog. VGA to HDMI converter boxes are available to do the job. The analog signal is carried from the computer to the converter by a VGA cable and comes out as a digital signal that is sent to the HDTV via HDMI cable. Some audio-video receivers have a VGA to HDMI converter built in.
Component and S-Video
If you need to connect a device, such as a DVD player or VCR that only has component audio output available, and need to connect it to the HDMI port on an HDTV, you’ll need a Component to HDMI converter. As with VGA signals, component signals are analog so have to be converted to digital to connect to an HDMI interface. There are converters that go the opposite direction, converting HDMI’s digital signal to analog component signals but we don’t recommend them because the HDCP copyright protection of HDMI is likely to render the converted signal unusable.
Similarly, there are converters that will upscale S-Video output to HDMI.
USB
USB connections have become the most common outputs for computers. Any USB output can be made compatible with a HDMI input by using a USB to HDMI converter box.
Connecting Different Sizes of HDMI Cables
There are three types of HDMI connectors currently available given that the larger Type B interface with 29 pins isn’t in use. Type A is the standard sized HDMI cable. The outside width of the male connector is 13.9mm and it contains 19 pins.
The spread of HDMI connectivity to portable devices has brought about two smaller connector sizes which contain 19 pins and work seamlessly with the standard Type A connections with the use of simple adapter cables. Type C, widely known as Mini HDMI Cable is common on devices like digital cameras and camcorders. Its male connector is 10.42mm wide. The newest Type D, or micro-HDMI is becoming popular on small devices like smartphones. Its connector is just 6.4mm in width.

About HDMI 2.0 Cable: Everything you need to know

About HDMI 2.0 Cable: Everything you need to know
EXPLAINED With the arrival of HDMI Cable 2.0, we're one step closer to 4K Ultra HDThe High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) was originally launched in 2002 to replace the ageing and bulky SCART connection.
HDMI has been through several iterations since then, the fifth of which is the newest version - HDMI 2.0. But what is it?
What does it do that the current HDMI connections on the back of your HD telly don't? Both of these questions (and more besides) are answered below...
What is HDMI 2.0?
Officially unveiled at IFA 2013 by the HDMI Forum, HDMI 2.0 is an improved standard for AV connectivity and the heir apparent to HDMI 1.4 (released back in 2009). You'll need an HDMI 2.0-compatible HD TV if you're interested in watching the full range of 4K Ultra HD source material in the future.
what's the full HDMI 2.0 spec?
HDMI 2.0 doesn't quite double the throughput of HDMI 1.4, but it ramps it up to 18Gbps. This enables a whole host of enhancements and features, which include:
4K Ultra HD at 50/60Hz - i.e. 2160p50 and 2160p60 - four times the clarity of 1080p60
Up to 32 uncompressed digital audio channels (compared to HDMI 1.4's eight)
Up to 1536kHz audio sampling
Simultaneous delivery of dual video streams to multiple users (on the same screen)
Simultaneous delivery of multi-stream audio to multiple users (up to four)
Support for 21:9 aspect ratios
Dynamic synchronization of video and audio streams
Additional CEC extensions for remote controls.
need to buy new HDMI 2.0 cables?
That depends. You can use your existing HDMI cables with new HDMI 2.0 connections as the connectors themselves haven't changed. While there's no such thing as an HDMI 2.0 cable per se, displaying 4K at 50/60Hz will require a High Speed/Category 2 HDMI cable. You can pick one up for a few pounds/dollars online. Don't spend any more.
Can I upgrade my current HD TV to support HDMI 2.0?
This isn't entirely clear. According to the HDMI Forum's website at hdmi.org, the official line is: "There are no provisions for doing such an upgrade. Because of the new enhanced feature set, any such conversion would require hardware and/or firmware upgrades."
But…There's an intriguing disclaimer: "If there are such conversions, [they] would come from the manufacturer." This opens up the possibility that some HDMI 1.4 connections could be converted into brand-spanking new HDMI 2.0 connections. Sony seems to be offering such an upgrade path. Its new X9 4K Ultra HD TV is listed on its website as "HDMI 2.0 upgradeable".
Will the PS4 and Xbox One have HDMI 2.0?
Doesn't look like it. All of the tech specs released for the two next-gen consoles thus far point to the PS4 and Xbox One shipping with the existing HDMI 1.4 connection. That said, if firmware and hardware upgrades are possible, there might be a way for Sony and Microsoft to provide a conversion option post-launch, as and when 4K Ultra HD becomes more established.
Is there an alternative to HDMI 2.0?
Yes. Intel's Thunderbolt 2 spec is faster - the throughput is rated at 20Gbps - and it supports DisplayPort 1.2. But the HDMI format is already firmly established on HD TVs and other HD-capable devices. So don't expect Thunderbolt to become a standard feature on future high-def and Ultra def tellies.
When is the HDMI 2.0 release date?
While the HDMI Forum officially released the spec on 4 September, any HDMI 2.0-equipped devices need to comply with the HDMI 2.0 Compliance Test Specification (CTS).

HDMI Selector Switches: Which One You Need

 
You should get an HDMI switch if you’d like a hassle free way to connect several HDMI source devices one input in your HD TV. HDMI Switches are also referred to as HDMI Switchers, HDMI repeaters, or HDMI selectors. In case your Television only has one or two HDMI ports, then not a problem. Simply use an HDMI switcher and effortlessly swap between multiple HDMI sources by pressing a button. There is no longer a need for unplugging and plugging in so that you can switch between different devices.
Hook up a number of different HDMI sources to your TV at the same time. Even when your Tv only has just one HDMI port. Amongst many of the HDMI sources you can connect are:
HDMI Cable or satellite digital tuners, DVD players with HDMI, Blu-ray players, computer systems with HDMI, Xbox 360, PS3s, HTPC, Media players, High Def video cameras, etc. Any system that you own that features an HDMI output you can hook up simultaneously with an HDMI switch, providing you have at least 1 HDMI input on your Tv.
Listed below are essential things to contemplate before making the purchase of an HDMI switch.
1. What Number Of Ports Do You Need
As an example, a 2×1 HDMI switch has 2 ports that you can plug 2 different HDMI sources to switch between. A 5×1 HDMI switch has 5 different ports and can switch between as much as 5 seperate HDMI source devices.
A 50 Port HDMI switch seems great, but it is pretty useless if you don’t have 50 source devices to work with with it. The best HDMI switch would be the one that will fit all of the source devices you will ever need.
It appears like the most chosen HDMI switch stands out as the 3×1 because people find it a great value plus they just have 3 HDMI source devices to use.
2. Check to be sure it supports Dolby True-HD and DTS-HD Master Audio. Have a look at the specs for the HDMI switch to make sure it supports resolutions of up to 1080p. This includes regular video resolutions like 480i along with HD resolutions like 480p, 720i, 720p, 1080i and 1080presolutions.
You want support for these resolutions since they are the most common used today in just about every type of media.
Right now there are also a few advancements to HDMI switches you may be interested in .
3. Just how is an automatic switch better compared to the manual HDMI switcher ?
Automatic HDMI Switcher will choose the source device which you power on automatically. But what if you have more than 1 source device turned on simutaneously? In such cases, it will select the last device switched on. For instance, if you have 3 switched on and you choose to switch on a 4th device it will instantly switch to the 4th one. After that you can press the button on the remote or the switch to to alternate between your devices.

What Tips to Need buy the HDMI to HDMI Cable Online

 
HDMI Cable (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is the industry-leading technology and de-facto standard connecting high-definition (HD) equipment, from HDTVs and personal computers to cameras, camcorders, tablets, Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, smart phones, and just about any other device capable of sending or receiving an HD signal.
Over 1,200 of the largest consumer electronics, PC and mobile device manufacturers are HDMI Adopters and over 1B HDMI-enabled devices.
By delivering crystal-clear, all-digital audio and video via a single cable, HDMI technology dramatically simplifies cabling and helps provide consumers with the highest-quality HD experience. It transmits all ATSC HDTV standards and supports 8-channel, 192kHz, uncompressed digital audio and all currently-available compressed formats, with bandwidth to spare to accommodate future enhancements and requirements.
Internet is the best place for you to buy the HDMI to HDMI cable. There are many sellers who have these cables because of the fact that they are very useful in various phases. You will be able to ensure that you get the best picture quality when you use the HDMI to HDMI cable.
There are many devices and equipments that require these cables because the images are in the digital form and in this form, they will have to be sent from one device to another one. If the usual analog devices are used, then the images are not good. So, you will have to ensure that you get the best results through this method of imaging.
Another important aspect about the HDMI to HDMI cable is that you will be able to use them in many different devices. The devices where they are commonly used are the gaming process. If you have a play station and if it is connected to a high definition television, then you will be able to ensure that you have the best gaming technology.
The only problem is that if you do not have a good HDMI to HDMI cable, then you will be sure to have poor quality of pictures. So, to overcome this problem, you should make sure that you use the best HDMI to HDMI cable.
The best of these cables are available on the internet. Though you may also find them in any computer accessory shop that you find in your city, the fact is that they will have a limited choice. The best of these cables will be found on the internet and the varieties that are available will also give you a great choice of purchase.
You will be able to find that some of them are very expensive, this is mainly because of the fact that you will be able to find them having gold plated wires. Since the gold plating is there, you will be able to use it for a long time as it will not get damaged.
If you would like the best HDMI to HDMI cable, then the internet shops can send them to you. Also, if you buy on the internet, you can get the HDMI to HDMI cable in bulk and when you get many numbers of these cables, you will be able to get a huge discount on their price.

What to Know Before Buying HDMI Cable

 
When you find yourself in the market for a digital HDMI Cable there are several factors you might bear in mind when diving into a purchase. Do you think you’re running the cable in the wall? Is a CL2 rated cable really important whenever setting up a cable into the wall? Precisely what gauge cable do you need? What length of a cable is appropriate? How much is simply too much to spend? These factors can be quite a little overwhelming for some individuals. Hopefully this article will clear a few things up for people looking for a digital HDMI cable to hook up their elegant home theater. Once you know what you need, a good place to get them is at cabletrain.com.
Using a Digital HDMI Cable in the Wall
If you’re planning on running the HDMI cable through the wall, you’ll need a cable that’s CL2 rated. building code inspectors assert it really is needed to avoid potential fires. Other people will say that it’s not necessarily that huge of a deal if your cable isn’t in-wall rated. However, I would suggest an in-wall HDMI cable simply because it’sthe way it’s supposed to be. It could be needed considering if you are intending on selling your property later on, you should have a CL2 rated cable to pass the inspection. Therefore of course, it is actually most definitely highly recommended to dish over a bit of more money for a CL2 In-Wall rated HDMI cable if you are planning on an in wall installment.
Precisely what gauge cable should I get?
The standard for wire thickness is recognized as the American Wire Gauge (AWG). Usually for digital HDMI cables, you will see 28AWG, 24AWG, and 22AWG cables. From these types of three gauges, the 22AWG cable is the thickest one. Chances are you’ll ask, what gauge do I have to have? Well this will depend on how long you plan on running the cable. If all you need is a 6 foot HDMI cable, or maybe a 10 foot, the cheaper 28awg cable will work flawlessly in your case. On the other hand, if your thinking of running a long HDMI cable, you’ll want the thicker 24awg or 22awg cable. This can be sure to preserve a stronger transmission throughout the length of the cable.
Please note that it’s a smart idea to test your longer HDMI cables before running them in the wall.
Just how much is simply too much to shell out on a HDMI cable
Simply put, opt for the least expensive one. Lots of people wind up expending far too much for HDMI cables when it doesn’t make a bit of difference in quality. Simply because all it takes to get that high-definition picture is a bunch of 1′s and 0′s. Less expensive HDMI Cables perform very good in transmitting the 1′s and 0′s therefore why should you throw away your hard earned money on overpriced cables? Of course, you’ll still need to give some thought to what was stated earlier concerning cable thickness and the length of the cable.

What Between HDMI Cable and DVI Cable Difference

 
Are you confused by the barrage of video cables available today? Let’s take a look at the most important video cables today, HDMI Cable and DVI Cables, and see what’s the differences between the two.
DVI
DVI is one of the most common digital video cables you’ll see on desktops and LCD monitors today. It’s the most similar to VGA connectors, with up to 24 pins and support for analog as well as digital video. DVI can stream up to 1920×1200 HD video, or with dual-link DVI connectors you can support up to 2560×1600 pixels. Some DVI cables or ports may include fewer pins if they are designed for lower resolution devices, so you’ll need to watch for this. If your port contains all the pins, however, it can support the max resolution with no problem. The biggest problem with DVI is that it doesn’t support HDCP encryption by default, so if your hardware only includes DVI ports, you may not be able to playback full HD Blu-rays and other HD content.
You can connect DVI to an HDMI port on a newer monitor with a small digital convertor. However, since DVI doesn’t support audio, you’ll need to use a separate cable for audio when connecting to an HDMI port.This makes DVI one of the more versatile newer connectors. It’s both backwards and forward compatible, though at the loss of some convenience. You can also connect an older monitor that only includes a VGA port with a DVI port easily via a similar DVI to VGA converter if your video output supports analog video.
HDMI
HDMI is the default cable on newer HDTVs, Blu-ray players, Apple TV, many new computers and video cards, and a multitude of other video devices. HDMI cables and ports are very easy to use, and are almost as easy to connect as USB devices. No more bent pins; just push and play. HDMI cables can stream digital video and audio simultaneously over the same cable. HDMI cables support up to 1920×1200 HD video and 8 channel audio. They also support HDCP encryption for the newest HD content. For almost all purposes, a single HDMI cable is all you’ll need to connect your computer or video device to your monitor or TV, and it’s almost the absolute standard digital cable.
Back in the days of VHS tapes and analog TV, a higher quality cable could definitely mean the difference between a clear and a fuzzy picture. But with digital video and audio, a cable is a cable. Your cable will just be transferring bits like your Ethernet or other computer cables, and a cheap HDMI cable from Amazon will serve you as well as a Monster cable. Standard HDMI Cables today can be up to 49’ long without any signal loss, so just look for the cheapest cable, plug in your equipment, and enjoy.

How to Convert VGA to HDMI Converting the Signal

 
With computer monitor manufacturers quickly deprecating the VGA format it is becoming harder and harder to find computer monitors that are natively compatible with already installed graphics solutions. This is not to say, however, that one must buy a new graphics solution to utilize a newer monitor as there are ways to convert VGA to HDMI for use with newer monitors to avoid having to buy a costly new graphics solution. Converting VGA to HDMI simply means installing a signal converter midline between the video source and monitor. This process is easy and can be accomplished by any computer user.
VGA is a type of connection used with computers to send the video signal to a monitor, which can also be a TV screen. Many TVs do not feature VGA inputs, however, creating the need for VGA to HDMI adapters and converters to bridge the gap and make the two devices compatible.
The main difference between VGA (video graphics array) and HDMI (high definition multimedia interface) is that VGA is an analog means of transmission while HDMI is digital. Therefore, some form of converter is needed to change and re-encode the signal between its output (PC) and input (HDTV) device. The converter must also scale the video to a resolution accepted by the TV (i.e. 720p or 1080p).
Converters
The standard VGA to HDMI converter is a simple box featuring a VGA input and an HDMI output, with some offering other output connection types, such as component video, as well, though HDMI provides the higest video resolution to a TV. The converters also often provide a 3.5mm audio input to accompany the VGA video input, as HDMI can handle both video and audio within the single cable.
Cables
Though there are direct HDMI-to-VGA adapter cables on the market, these cables only function in that direction, mainly for sending an HDMI-output signal to a computer monitor, and cannot convert video both ways. This can be misleading to some, as the other primary type of PC video output--DVI (digital visual interface)--can be converted directly to HDMI with only the cable, as DVI is also a digital format.
1
Power down your computer system.
2
Connect your VGA to HDMI audio video converter's power supply to the converter's electrical input and an appropriate electrical socket.
3
Connect your monitor's HDMI cable between the monitor and the VGA to HDMI audio video converter's HDMI port. This port is located on the side opposite of the electrical input socket.
4
Connect your VGA Cables between the computer's VGA out port and the VGA to HDMI audio video converter's VGA in port. This port is located on the same side you inserted the cord from the power supply into.
5
Power your computer back up and ensure the VGA to HDMI audio video converter is in fact working and transmitting images to your monitor.

Do not spend more Money Buy Pricey HDMI cables

 
We've long been advocates of not paying for pricey cables, often do little more than pad the pockets sell them.
For example, we most recently cautioned that there is no such thing as either a "3D HDMI Cable" or an "HDMI 1.4 cable," as any standard high-speed cable (10.2Gbps) is sufficient for handling 3D signals.
But according to a report from HD Guru, there's a new initiative underway to once again get consumers to pay more for HDMI cables, this time based on the frame rate—120Hz, 240Hz or even 480Hz—of the TV. HD Guru found new labels on HDMI cable packages that use key TV marketing terms, such as 3D, 240Hz, and 600Hz (the sub-field drive now used by most plasmas) to lure consumers into buying pricier cables. The irony is that with the exception of 3D, these specs have nothing to do with the signal coming into the TV via the cable, as they refer to the internal processing done to the signal once it's inside the TV.
We thought the issue had pretty much been addressed by the HDMI organization, which prohibited manufacturers from marketing cables by the HDMI version (HDMI 1.3, HDMI 1.4, etc). Instead, cable marketers must label their cables using one of five new logos: HDMI Standard, HDMI High Speed, HDMI Standard with Ethernet, HDMI High Speed with Ethernet, and HDMI Standard Automotive. A high-speed cable is recommended for sending 1080p signals, such as those from a Blu-ray player, to the TV.
So to be clear, unless you plan to regularly disconnect and reconnect components, where it might make sense to buy pricier, sturdier cables with more rugged connectors—or you require very long HDMI cable runs, more than 30 feet—any high-speed-rated cable should suffice.
Of course, buy a little longer than you need. It's always best to overestimate a little when buying an HDMI Cable. For example, if you've measured the distance between your TV and receiver and determined that you need a 3-foot cable, you should probably get the next length up in case you need to move your devices around. Having slack will help prevent stress on the connectors as well.