Amongst the various audio/video connectors to hit the markets today, the HDMI splitter is rapidly topping the popularity charts. It is a distribution amplifier enabling HDTV devices such as set-top boxes, DVD players, Sony PS3 and Computers which have HDMI outputs to be connected to two or more HDTV displays. This splitter allows various HDMI displays to share one HDTV source and is a low cost solution to upgrade your existing video configurations.
These splitters are available in 2, 4, 8 ports and can be cascaded to achieve a larger distribution. Various configurations of these units are 1x2, 2x2, 1x4, 2x4, 4x4 and 2x8 as well as more complex HDMI matrix units. Buffering and amplifying signals are its key functions and it can transform a single HDMI input signal into two identical HDMI output signals simultaneously. Uncompressed digital streams are transmitted using these devices. Its numerous features include easy installation, compact size, low power consumption, Plug and play functionality, no set up and no separate software requirements. Supported resolutions include 480i, 576i, 480p, 576p, 720p and 1080p and video amplifier bandwidth up to 2.25Gpbs/225MHz. These devices are HDCP compliant, FCC/CE Certified, and RoHS compliant. Some units support IR Remote, TCP/IP and serial RS232 control with individual push button control also available for switching between displays.
HDMI was developed with the intention of replacing DVI as the latter did not support audio. The HDMI splitters duplicate high definition video and digital audio from one source and display it on multiple units. HDMI integrates all video and sound signals onto a single cable avoiding the clutter created by other audio and video setups. These devices are dominating other digital standard interfaces since they connect one digital cable box or satellite receiver with HDMI out to a TV or DVD player in two different rooms. Home theatre enthusiasts find ample use for these units throughout their homes. In addition, HDMI splitter units also find their usage in various business settings such as, digital signage applications, classrooms, control rooms, conference rooms, shopping malls, information and broadcasting, remote monitoring & training facilities.
