Understanding HDMI

Sep 25
08:22

2007

Neil MacLeod

Neil MacLeod

  • Share this article on Facebook
  • Share this article on Twitter
  • Share this article on Linkedin

HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface. Most electronic devices that are attached to television (i.e. DVD player) have to convert a digital signal into an analog output; this process downgrades the quality due to information loss incurred in this conversion process. However, with HDMI output you can transfer a digital signal (i.e. DVD player) digitally; this results in a pure digital stream sent via a HDMI cable direct to your HDMI or DVI television.

mediaimage

The HDMI standard was created by many of the leading manufacturers,Understanding HDMI Articles these include: Panasonic, Hitachi, Philips, Sony, Thomson (RCA), Silicon Image and Toshiba. HDMI is not just a used in video transfer, it also has embedded multi-channel audio support.A lot of people out there find all these new "options" that have come with HD technology very confusing (i.e. Deep colour and DVD audio).  So below is a brief guide to some of the options that are available below.

Deep colour:  This in simple terms allows you HD television to go from a display using millions of colours to a display of billions of colours.  It also increases the contrast ratio, therefore allowing more grey shades between white and black. Colour banding lines are completely eliminated and this gives the viewer unrivalled colour accuracy and vividness due to the smooth transitions and grading between colour and tone.

How much better is 1080p than 720p: In purely technical terms it’s 225%. The sound quality is also improved by a further 50% with the new totally lossless, bit-for-bit Dolby True HD and DTS Master HD multi channel audio content.

xvYCC / xv Colour: This is a new standard brought in with HDMI 1.3 (IEC 61966-2-4, more commonly known as xvYCC, the shorthand term for “Extended YCC Colorimetry for Video Applications”. This standard has the brand name “x.v.Colour”).  This new standard has 1.8 times more display colours than the previous standard, enabling a more pleasurable viewing experience.

DVD audio: This digital format allows a range of audio channels from single through 5.1 channel surround sound. The audio quality of a DVD Audio disc can be substantially higher than a standard audio CD. DVD Audio supports bit depths up to 24-bit and sample rates up to 192 kHz, CD audio can only reach 16-bit and 44.1 kHz.   Cabling has always been an issue with recent electronic advances, for example you need this type of cable and can’t go over a certain length, etc, etc. HDMI technology has been designed to use a standard copper cable construction. In order to allow cable manufacturers to improve their products through the use of new and emerging technologies, the HDMI standard specifies the required performance of a cable but does not specify a maximum cable length. Cables are now available in lengths of up to 15 meters.

In summary; HDMI digital interconnectivity provides a superior, uncompressed digital video and audio quality. A popular interface enabling the transmission of high definition data and various content, with a simple, user friendly connector that replaces the maze of cabling behind your television.

Also From This Author

The HITECH Act and HIPAA - What does it mean for IT Professionals?

The HITECH Act and HIPAA - What does it mean for IT Professionals?

The Health Information Technology for Economic & Clinical Health (HITECH) act really does 'up the ante' for HIPAA enforcement. In theory Health organizations have had to comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) since its introduction in 1996. Originally HIPAA was introduced by congress to protect the health insurance rights of employees made redundant. Additional 'Titles' to the act were introduced including 'Title 2' which was designed to protect electronically stored data relating to patient health information - often referred to as 'Protected Health Information' (PHI).
Choosing A House Removal Company

Choosing A House Removal Company

Moving can be one of the most exciting things that anyone can ever do. When moving into a new place, a number of different emotions are stirred up. One may feel excitement and fear all at the same time. The overall feeling most people experience is something of similar to the rejuvenation feeling one gets on New Year´s day. New Year´s Resolutions and New Home Resolutions can easily be seen going hand in hand. However, aside from all the wonderful emotions comes the annoyance one must endure when having to move all their property and belongings into their new place.
The Ultimate Guide to Finding and Comparing Car Repair Centers and Prices in the UK

The Ultimate Guide to Finding and Comparing Car Repair Centers and Prices in the UK

Owning a car comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to maintenance and repairs. Whether you drive a Ford Pinto or an Audi S8, regular upkeep is essential for optimal performance. However, booking car repairs can often be a hassle due to scheduling conflicts, unavailability of parts, and exorbitant repair costs. Imagine if you could compare prices and book services online before heading to a repair shop. Well, in the UK, this is now a reality.