THE INS AND OUTS OF HDMI SPLITTERS
The topic today is going to be HDMI splitters. I guess we should start with the basics. An HDMI splitter allows you to split one HDMI source signal to two or more outputs. Most HDMI splitters are 1:2, meaning you start with one source and can split the signal into two. We offer other configurations that will support just about any situation. Including even things like sports bars with many displays. You might use an HDMI splitter to duplicate the signal from your cable box so you can watch it on two televisions. An HDMI splitter is not to be confused with an HDMI switch. The most popular question I get on a day to day basis would be just that. The difference between an HDMI splitter and an HDMI switch. Again, an HDMI splitter allows you to send a signal from 1 source to multiple displays and an HDMI switch allows you to plug in multiple HDMI sources (Blueray, Cable/Sat box, etc.) to a display. Using a switch is common for people who run out of HDMI inputs on their TV.
There are also products out there called HDMI repeaters that will boost a signal when running long HDMI cables typically starting around the 50ft marker. But the repeaters and switches can be covered at another time. It just seems I get lots of customers asking about those three items and their differences. So hopefully that clears things up for everyone.
Now back on track with the main reason for today's writing. HDMI splitters and how to choose. HDMI splitter styles, types and prices can vary. A couple things to look at would be the resolution support the switch offers. The output source (such as your Blueray) cannot always match the display devices resolution capabilities. Fortunately, the configuration and design of many of the HDMI splitters make it possible for high quality signal to be sent to each and every output. The HDMI cables that you use can make a difference as well. A general rule of thumb is getting your hands on a thicker gauge cable or something with some high speeds. Length is a big deciding factor here as well. The thicker gauge cable such as 26 AWG are recommended for lengths of 3 to 15ft and for anything longer try getting into the 22 AWG range. This will ensure the best possible connection with little to no resistance. Luckily most of our splitters are powered and can boost signals up to 50ft. Resolution is another topic to cover briefly.
Your picture quality is limited to resolution that BOTH TVs support - no matter how great your cables are, or how amazing your splitter is. If your running full 1080p out of a Blu-Ray player and into one 720p TV and one 1080p, you will be limited to the 720p. I hope some of this information was found useful. It was just a basic rundown of questions and topics that come up through my day with customers. If you have questions or concerns feel free to call or email our techs.
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