Two Different Types of HDMI Cables

• HDMI cables come in two different types--Type A and Type B. Type A is the consumer type that carries both high-definition audio and video. The Type A cable consists of 19 wires and is the most commonly used cable for connecting electronic components. Type B has 29 wires and is designed for the motion picture industry--moviemaking and editing.
  
  

HDMI Cable Length

• Like with other audio/video connection cables, the length of the HDMI cable does make a difference in performance. Longer cables will yield a loss in overall quality, but it make not be noticeable. HDMI cables around 15 feet in length or shorter are rated to perform better than longer cables. If you need a longer HDMI cable, purchase a signal booster/extension adapter and use it to connect to shorter length HDMI cables together. The signal booster will return any loss of overall quality.
  
  

HDMI Cable Price

• HDMI cables vary in prices from $20 to more than $100. Buying an expensive cable does not mean you will get a better quality cable. A standard HDMI cable runs anywhere from $20 to $35. Beware of cables priced below $20. Higher-priced HDMI cables will carry a brand name and fancy packaging, but nothing else. Price around before buying a HDMI cable and understand that a higher price does not always mean better quality.
  
  

HDMI and High Definition Content Protection

• HDMI cables transmit both digital audio and video and incorporate a technology known as High Definition Content Protection (HDCP), a technology that allows two components connected with a HDMI cable to communicate with each other. This communications builds a relationship known as "authorization." The two components work together; this connection is for future HDMI developments related to copyright issues.
  
  

Specifications to Look for When Buying a HDMI Cable

• There are certain specifications to look for when buying a regular length (from 0.5m to 5m) HDMI cable. Look for a transfer rate of 10.2Gbps, cable type-triple shielding-28awg, connector type gold-plated, cable connections-HDMI Type A Male to HDMI Type A Male-19pin to 19pin and output up to 1080p.-Ver. 1.3b.
  
  If you need a longer length cable (from 7m to 15m), look for a transfer rate of 10.2Gbps, signal type-transition minimized differential/signaling, connector type-gold plated, cable thickness-26awg, cable connections-HDMI Type A Male to HDMI Type A Male and output up to 1080P.-Ver. 1.3b.