What is HDMI? What is HDMI used for?

HDMI is a popular cable used in modern electronic devices, from PC, Mac, computer monitor, control panel, Bluray head. But what does it do? And why is it so popular?

HDMI and Analog

HDMI is an acronym for High Definition Multimedia Interface, and has the ability to pass to other devices with higher quality information than Analog. Information sent via HDMI is uncompressed digital data. HDMI is the main cable for video display. 4K videos cannot be sent via analog cable, so HDMI is paving the way for better quality.

If you don't know how to connect a laptop to a TV using HDMI port, you can read more here.

HDMI carries audio data

Moreover, HDMI cord has the ability to send information sound quite well. Not only audio but also surround sound (surround sound audion). Thanks to that, the speaker is fitted with most of the most modern control panels and TVs. No need to plug in any auxiliary cables to carry audio data when using HDMI cables.

HDMI carries control data

When you turn on the Xbox, control panel or TV, change the sound in the DVD and BluRay head, the screen receives the signal, which is the control data.

Price of HDMI

In addition, HDMI cord is super cheap. This makes them even more amazing. They cost about 5 USD. So, don't pay too much for these cables, rarely the benefits of cable advertising are more expensive or worthwhile. The difference between HDMI types is all just an excuse.

Difference between HDMI 1.4, 2.0, and 2.1

All versions of HDMI have backward compatibility; Only the newer version will be more capable and bring more data. For example, HDMI 1.4 can carry 1080p at 60Hz and 2160p 4K ultra HD at 30Hz.

On the other hand, the newer version of HDMI 2.0 can carry 1080p at frequencies as high as 120Hz and 2160p 4K with 60Hz. The slight but encouraging change is to provide HDR stands for High Dynamic Range (high dynamic range). HDR extends the range of available colors and darkens the highlights and lights. In doing so, the visuals will look more real.

The latest version HDMI 2.1 has been released. HDMI 2.1 provides 2160p 4K at 120 Hz and 4320p 8k with 60Hz. Due to the small number of 8K monitors on the market and devices capable of handling it, 2.1 will have few users.

What is Mini and Micro HDMI?

Mini and Micro HDMI are smaller versions of larger versions. For years we found Mini HDMI used in tablets and DSLR cameras. Similarly, the Micro HDMI - a smaller cable than Mini HDMI used in smartphones and tablets to connect to the screen.

Use HDMI cable with PC

An HDMI port usually appears on the PC with a graphics card, control panel. Just plug one end of the HDMI cable into the rear port of the PC and the other end plugs into the monitor.

If you own an old PC with only DVI and analog ports, you will need to upgrade your graphics card to use HDMI and thus, store higher quality video data with an HDMI compatible display.

If the monitor has only DVI and analog ports, you want to use an HDMI cable with that monitor, you will need the adapter. Note: with the adapter in place, you cannot display full HD on the HD screen.

HDMI to DVI is one of the more popular converters needed for PCs. However, there are other options for VGA connectivity as well.

Learn more about Differences between HDMI and DVI

summary

HDMI is one of the best lines for video and audio display, which is why it has been used extensively over the years of the HD era. Certainly it will not be lost in a short time but with newer cables like USB-C it is not possible to predict in the future whether it will be used or not.