HDMI is currently the best choice for audio and video connections. Because the audio and video transfers on a cable, in an uncompressed format, which is perfect for high definition displays and settings. HDMI is compatible with the latest digital transmission standards such as HDCP (High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection).

HDMI is a major drawback. Unfortunately, it is designed for long cable runs. The higher the resolution and longer cable, the more the signal has the opportunity to be degraded. This is because cables are manufactured with copper wire twisted pair of very small size. Unlike normal coaxial cable, this causes interference and degradation of a reality that is increasingly dealing with lengths over 50 feet.

Fortunately, the creators of the HDMI standard wise thought much about its specifications. Because we choose to include a line of power within the cable, it has become possible to power repeaters that goes into the cable. Typically, signal amplifiers and repeaters need an external power source to boost the signal, but due to its design, HDMI can actually expand without external power supply.

This type of HDMI repeaters come in different varieties. Cables are built with repeaters and relays to connect HDMI cables to connect two together while you are repeating the signal. A converter can also be used to switch the HDMI signal into a signal that travels through standard CAT5 cable. With this type of system, one unit is placed at each end of the cable run to convert the signal to go cat5, and then transform it to HDMI at the other end.

If extra care is needed for the signal, external power source can also be used for HDMI repeater. This is a good idea because many HDMI sources just does not generate the energy needed to do a good job of repeating the signal. Even the cables with built-in repeaters often allow an external power source attached. This is just a little extra protection for the signal and can be a good idea depending on the situation in which the repeater is needed.

Since HDMI is a digital signal can not be degraded long before the picture and sound is no longer decipherable. In the analog signals, you can get a bit of degradation before the picture is completely gone. Into digital signals, corrupt is corrupt, you will start seeing large artifacts with only a little signal degradation.

For this reason, it is important to use a relay suitable for all cable runs. Do your research and find out what option to extend the best for you: built-in, independent of the repeater, or HDMI extender cat5. No matter what the situation is likely to be a solution that works for you.