Extending your HDMI connection through an Ethernet connection sounds complicated, but can be achieved through the utilization of some equipment and an Ethernet cable, since high definition video is capable of transmitting data through different cables, for example, HDMI and DVI. The purpose of extending HDMI cables is to allow for a longer distance high quality video transmission, whereas a standard HDMI cable would need a direct connection. With an Ethernet extension, the signal can possibly be extended for some 200ft. Aside from this, extending a HDMI cable through an Ethernet connection also allows the signal to be transmitted from one HD (High definition) device to another by producing a signal over a larger broadcasting area.

The first step in determining how to extend a HDMI display is finding the right Ethernet connection for your HDMI. In this guide, we will start off with an example of a basic HDMI transmission from a remote control to a display source. First of all, the proper equipment is required. This would include utilising a device such as a HDMI transceiver. These transceivers allow for the manipulation and transmission of HDMI and I.R over CAT5/ 6 Ethernet cables. The difference between Infrared cables and standard HDMI data is that I.R allows signals to be sent from a viewing area to the equipment room in another place.

The process works as such:

• The HD source will be connected to a HDMI transceiver through a standard Ethernet cable and plugged in. The signal will then usually be broadcasted on through another transceiver for longer distances, or alternatively it will be used as the primary base for extended HDMI signals by connecting a Ethernet cable from the transceiver straight to the display source. In other words, the HDMI transceiver acts as a ‘repeater’ for the signal from the source to the display. Alternatively, an I.R system could be used.

• For long distances, possibly with two transceivers, it is possible to have a remote control send data to an IR receiver which will connect to a HDMI transceiver that has multiple Ethernet ports. Once the receiver detects the signals, it will then send signals back to both the source and to the display by travelling through these Ethernet cables.

Extending HDMI is a complicated process, but with the right equipment and techniques it can be done well and prove to be extremely beneficial. Instances where this can be put to good use is when there is one HD source in an isolated location and a TV set in a different room that requires some manual wiring to get to. By using a HDMI transceiver and an Ethernet connection, it is possible to preserve the high speed data transfer and maintain excellent quality. In some instances, extending a HDMI can be used to create two different HD displays from one source, allowing one to make the most of the HDMI viewing experience.