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With this new High Definition (HD) era comes another standard that seems to be the set standard of cabling for the new content. “The High-Definition Multi-media Interface (HDMI) is an industry-supported, uncompressed, all-digital audio/video interface. HDMI provides an interface between any compatible digital audio/video source, such as a set-top box, DVD player, and A/V receiver and a compatible digital audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital television (DTV).” -Wikipedia.

While the technology is referred as the new interface for the future, is already here and we all need to pay attention to it, and is available in most HD capable equipment available in the market. The technical specs of this technology are amazing, it has a bandwidth of up to 5 gigabytes needed for all the information that HD equipment will be processing. One of the beauty of this technology is that is backward compatible with Standard Definition (SD), all the data is sent uncompressed to minimize artifact, and is capable of transmitting up to 2.2 gigabits per second.

The plug is compact, yet powerful, similar to USB 2.0 only that the shape of the unit is proprietary for HDMI components. One last observation is that this is the only digital connection capable of transmitting digital video with High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP). The equipment that is using this technology already is Digital TV’s, specially those capable of managing HD content, HD-DVD and Blu-ray players, HD camcorders, some computer graphic cards, and some video game consoles.

One thing to keep in mind is that this technology is evolving, so far I have heard about HDMI 1.1, the current 1.2, and in the works is 1.3, each one offering some advancement in compatibility with old technology as well as minor issues with new technology. Nevertheless, the technology around HDMI is strong, there is no competitor, and no other connection yet defined as better or more powerful.

Keep your eyes open when buying new equipment, if you are upgrading your home theater make sure that you have HDMI in your receiver. When upgrading think of the future, research every aspect or component, that way you can be sure you will have the newest technology for years to come. For questions email us at lumencreativegroup@gmail.com, also visit http://www.lumencreativegroup.com/ for the newest in technology, tips and tricks for your digital life style. Thanks.