HDMI is short for ‘High Definition Multi-Media Interface’; this cable can transfer digital video and
audio signals simultaneously. The HDMI versions (i.e. v1.1, v1.2, v1.3 etc…) are regarding the
devices that are connected, not the cable itself. For example, HDMI v1.3 is the most current
version, however, an HDMI cable purchased four years ago under v1.2 will work just fine… the
reason is that the version is related to the capabilities of the devices that utilize HDMI connections. A
TV that is v1.3 will offer features that are not compatible with HDMI v1.1 devices… however, all
new versions are backwards compatible with older versions; thus, the basic audio/video signal will
operate as intended.
Each new version of HDMI offers added performance and convenience features that are transmitted
through dedicated pathways within the cable. The overall construction of the HDMI cable does not
change much; however, some improvements are made to the cable by increases the gauge of
conductor within the cable to increase bandwidth for future needs, updated terminations and a few
other minor adjustments. This does not mean that your existing HDMI cable will not work when
connected to new devices. The cable is a vessel for the signal to be transmitted; thus, the physical
cable is not bound by any version.
| HDMI has 19 Channels (wires) inside the cable; along with 19 corresponding pins at each end. Each channel has a dedicated purpose, i.e audio/video transfer, power, control and more... |
