One additional problem with HDMI is its effectiveness over long distances.
However, HDMI cables can extend this reliably to about 30 feet.
Extending this distance can be tricky.
J-Tech / Amazon.com
You may see an effect known as the sparkles, and you may encounter increased handshake problems.
Still, you may encounter those issues with short HDMI cable lengths.
J-Tech / Amazon.com
This is done by using an HDMI-to-Cat5 (5e, 6, 7) converter kit.
FIBBR and Amazon
These kits are available from brands such asGofancoandMonoprice.
This key in of kit comes with a transmitter and receiver, both of which connect to AC power.
Here are the steps to set this up.
Iogear / Amazon
Place the transmitter and receiver where you want each gear.
Connect one end of a Cat5e, 6, 7 cable to the Ethernet output of the transmitter.
Connect the other end of the Cat cable to the Ethernet input on the receiver.
Connect the HDMI output of the receiver to the TV or video projector.
Plug in the transmitter and receiver to power and verify that the setup works.
If the setup doesn’t work, redo the connection setup orrefer to our HDMI troubleshooting tips.
If you aren’t successful, contact tech support for your converters.
Fiber can extend HDMI over long distances (such as a mile or more).
The physical layout and setup are the same as with extenders that use Cat cables.
Optical HDMI Cable
Using converters to extend HDMI over Cat, Fiber, or Coax works.
These cables work like any other HDMI cable.
These cables come in various lengths.
Depending on the manufacturer, you may be able to order custom lengths.
Optical HDMI cable technology supports lengths of 300 feet or more.
Optical HDMI cables are available from brands such asFIBBR, Gofanco,Monoprice, and Sewell Direct.
Wireless HDMI Solutions
Another way to connect HDMI devices is wirelessly.
Some units may provide up to 150 feet or more of coverage.
Wireless HDMI has mostly fallen out of favor.
The companies that produce the devices are doing so entirely on their own.
Both of these formats have fallen out of favor, with both failing to gain traction as the standard.
WHDI transmits HDMI signals using the 5 GHz frequency band.
The transmission range can be up to 100 feet or more (depending on the product).
Examples of brands that offer Wireless HDMI products using WHDI technology includeActionTec,IOGEAR, andNyrius.
WiHD transmits HDMI signals using the 60 GHz frequency band.
The transmission range tops out at about 60 feet but decreases or becomes non-effective when transmitting through walls.
Results are best if the transmitter and receiver are within line-of-sight.
Some brands that offer wireless HDMI products using WiHD technology includeDVDOandMonoprice.
Many wireless HDMI transmitters and receivers aren’t 4K compatible but are available on a growing number of units.
If you need 4K compatibility, check product features and specs to verify it is provided.
However, despite its widespread adoption, HDMI isn’t trouble-free.
One of its weaknesses is its inability to transfer video signals over long distances without additional support.
Still, wireless alternatives are viable for home use.
