Comparing Different HDMI Standards
HDMI cable standards differ: High Speed is rated 10.2 Gbps, Premium High Speed 18 Gbps for 4K60, and Ultra High Speed 48 Gbps for 8K60 and 4K120.
Often referred to as "HDMI," high-definition multimedia interface is the standard connection for televisions and a number of other electronic devices. It's an important component of any entertainment setup as it combines both video and audio into a single digital interface. It supports standard, enhanced, or high-definition video, in addition to standard to multi-channel surround-sound audio. Just like with any technology, sometimes there may be issues with your connection. Below you will find helpful steps for troubleshooting your HDMI connection.
The Importance of the HDMI Handshake
One of the common causes of HDMI issues revolves around the "HDMI handshake." HDMI is intended to make it simple for you to connect all of your devices with one cable. For this to occur, the connected devices need to be licensed to communicate with each other through a standard referred to as HDCP ("high-bandwidth digital content protection). This is a coding scheme developed to protect audio and video signals from being copied and illegally intercepted.
The HDMI handshake refers to the ability of the devices to recognize and communicate with one another. If the handshake doesn't work, it means that the HDCP encryption embedded in the HDMI signal is not recognized by one (or more) of the connected devices. To address the issue, consider the tips on how to troubleshoot your HDMI connection.
Troubleshooting Your HDMI Connection
Issues with your HDMI connection may occur so it's important to understand how to troubleshoot the problem. Consider the following steps if you need to assess issues with your HDMI connection.
- Connection Check: Before you make any big moves, check your HDMI cable connections. They need to be tightly fitted at both sides. HDMI cables can easily slip out as they aren't as tight as component or composite video connections. If the connection is the problem, use self-locking cables to address the issue.
- Reverse Sequence: If you normally turn on your television and then your secondary devices, flip the order. Turn on your secondary devices and then your television as reversing the sequence can address the issue. Whatever sequence works the best should be used in the future.
- Different Input: Another method involves switching your remote to another input and then back to HDMI. If that doesn't work, you can also plug your device into a different HDMI input. Be sure to select the correct input for the device you are trying to use as some devices are tuned to specific channel inputs. This means that you need to tune to that input on your television remote.
- Resolution Settings: If your HDMI device has a settings menu that controls the resolution of your videos, check if it is set to "auto." This can cause some issues as it's more effective to reset it to match the built-in resolution of your television or projector.
- Process of Elimination: If your television is connected to an intermediary or audio receiver, remove the HDMI connection. You can then plug the HDMI directly into the television. This can help you determine if the HDMI cable is the issue, or if it's the intermediary device. Use the process of elimination to determine what the original issue is.
- Firmware Updates: Determine if you need to complete any firmware updates. This can include your television, HDMI device, and audio receiver. When you are online checking for firmware updates, look for any complaints regarding HDMI handshake issues. This could be the problem so it's important to follow any instructions on how to solve the issue.
AV Systems Providers
No matter what your AV needs are, the team at KanexPro can get you on the right track. They are the top AV systems providers and have helped clients large and small address and solve their issues. One of the most effective HDMI solutions for large companies is the HDMI matrix. It can cross-switch eight HDMI sources to eight 4K displays. This is a great option for those in the fields of medicine, government, or the military. Contact the team at KanexPro today for support!