HDBaseT: Too good to be true?

Monday, February 20, 2012 Goto comments Leave a comment AV Resource

This new technology for the transport of Hi-Definition (HD) video over copper cable is beginning to gain a foothold in the market. Its intent? To replace HDMI cables prevalent in all HD video equipment. HDBaseT was introduced to the public approximately two and a half years ago and is now incorporated into many manufacturers’ products.
 
HDBaseT’s claims are much more that just HD video. The marketing term that’s been used is 5Play™. It converges full uncompressed HD video, audio, 100BaseT Ethernet, power over cable and various control signals through a single 100m/328ft CAT5e/6 LAN cable. Learn more from the HDBaseT Alliance.
 
What’s more is that it turns out this technology is measuring up to its claims. HDBaseT is already in products from several major manufacturers, and it does all this through standard UTP Cat-5e cable at normal 100 meter cabling distances, an exciting advance in technology. Companies such as Extron, Crestron, AMX, Gefen, Kramer and Atlona, all have products using this technology, among a number of other manufacturers.
 
AVR implements the use of HDBaseT in its products and installations. In AVR’s testing of several recent installations, the technology appears to be much more reliable and consistent in performance, particularly where 1080p and HDCP (the digital content protection scheme for viewing legal copies of HD video) are concerned. In many cases this can simply mean the difference between getting a picture or none at all.
 
When considering system designs with long cable runs, HDBaseT products should be considered a first choice. It really is too good to be true!
 
For further information on how you can use HDBaseT in your meeting room, auditorium, classroom or for whatever space you wish to improve a video image, contact your AVR Account Executive at 602.643.4200 today!