HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is an audio video interface for transmitting uncompressed digital data between high definition devices such as HD DVD players, HD satellite boxes and HD TV's. It offers crystal clear, all-digital, audio and video signal in a single cable.
There are three HDMI connector types with Type A, Type B and Type C.
The Type A connector has 19 pins. The plug's dimensions are 13.9 mm wide by 4.45 mm high.
The Type B connector has 29 pins with dimensions 21.2 mm by 4.45 mm.
The Type C mini-connector is used mainly on portable devices such as camcorders and is smaller, 10.42 mm by 2.42 mm but has the same 19 pin configuration.
Cable length
HDMI cable specification does not define a maximum cable length, but due to attenuation there is a limit as to how long a HDMI lead can successfully transmit the signal. Build and material quality greatly affect the overall length a HDMI cable can be used without losing signal. Amplifiers are available to increase the distance a signal can travel without derogation.
Versions
There are various versions of HDMI cables v1.0, v2.0, v1.3a, v1.3b. The versions of 1.3 (a & b) relate to the testing specification to which the cable has been certified and do not necessarily offer increased functionality. All newer versions are fully backwards compatible with older versions. The HDMI organization is currently working with manufacturers to focus on features and de-emphasize version numbers to help reduce customer confusion.
