CE pro offers tips on choosing the right HDMI cable for your clients.
It was only a few years ago that the use of analog-based component video and RCA audio connections were sufficient for most installations.
Today, due to high bit-rate data (and copyright protection), the need to implement HDMI is paramount.
Choosing the right HDMI cable can be a daunting task. Steve Lampen, multimedia technology manager for cable manufacturer Belden Inc., offers tips for making wise HDMI cabling choices.
Consider Gauge Size. Bigger wires go farther. "Just be sure that the size of the connectors will fit next to each other," he says. "The majority of HDMI cables are about 2 meters. For those smaller lengths, 26 AWG twisted-pair cable is OK."
Meet 1080p Requirements. Lampen says dealers should look for evidence that the cables have been tested and certified to meet industry 1080p standards. "Top manufacturers use tests — the ‘eye-pattern test’ and other tests for impedance, attenuation, crosstalk and skew," he says.
Also, he says, make sure the tests apply to the specific length that is being considered for the job.
Consider UL-Rated Cables. For residential and commercial applications, which include in-wall installations, Lampen recommends UL-rated products. "Keep in mind that NEC fire ratings are required for commercial installations," he adds.
Buy the Best. "Cheap, no-name products can degrade the signal and lead to problems such as pixel loss, tiling and loss of color depth," Lampen explains.
Lampen also warns installers to be wary of some of the design flaws dogging HDMI connectors. "You may want to look at after-market fastening devices."
Today, due to high bit-rate data (and copyright protection), the need to implement HDMI is paramount.
Choosing the right HDMI cable can be a daunting task. Steve Lampen, multimedia technology manager for cable manufacturer Belden Inc., offers tips for making wise HDMI cabling choices.
Consider Gauge Size. Bigger wires go farther. "Just be sure that the size of the connectors will fit next to each other," he says. "The majority of HDMI cables are about 2 meters. For those smaller lengths, 26 AWG twisted-pair cable is OK."
Meet 1080p Requirements. Lampen says dealers should look for evidence that the cables have been tested and certified to meet industry 1080p standards. "Top manufacturers use tests — the ‘eye-pattern test’ and other tests for impedance, attenuation, crosstalk and skew," he says.
Also, he says, make sure the tests apply to the specific length that is being considered for the job.
Consider UL-Rated Cables. For residential and commercial applications, which include in-wall installations, Lampen recommends UL-rated products. "Keep in mind that NEC fire ratings are required for commercial installations," he adds.
Buy the Best. "Cheap, no-name products can degrade the signal and lead to problems such as pixel loss, tiling and loss of color depth," Lampen explains.
Lampen also warns installers to be wary of some of the design flaws dogging HDMI connectors. "You may want to look at after-market fastening devices."
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