by Daniel J. Gansle

Created on: January 07, 2009

HDMI, or High Definition Multimedia Interface, is the preferred protocol for connecting the newer generation of HDTVs and other high-definition devices. If you've just bought a new Blu-ray video disc player, you'll also want to pick up an HDMI cable to connect the Blu-ray disc player to your HDTV. In this article, you'll learn everything you need to know about HDMI technology and why an HDMI cable is all you'll need to connect your high-definition components.

What Is HDMI?
According to HDMI.org, HDMI is "the first and only industry-supported, uncompressed, all-digital audio/video interface. By delivering crystal-clear, all-digital audio and video via a single cable, HDMI dramatically simplifies cabling and helps provide consumers with the highest-quality home theater experience. HDMI provides an interface between any audio/video source, such as a set-top box, DVD player, or A/V receiver and an audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital television (DTV), over a single cable.

HDMI supports standard, enhanced, or high-definition video, plus multi-channel digital audio on a single cable. It transmits all ATSC HDTV standards and supports 8-channel, 192kHz, uncompressed digital audio and all currently-available compressed formats (such as Dolby Digital and DTS), HDMI 1.3 adds additional support for new lossless digital audio formats Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio with bandwidth to spare to accommodate future enhancements and requirements."

Why Do I Need HDMI?
In the past, multiple analog cabling was used to connect your analog television set with other analog components including video cassette players. But with today's advance in digital technology, other cabling options have come to the fore including component, composite, fiber optic, S-video, and HDMI. HDMI cabling stands out above other cabling options because it carries uncompressed high-definition video, digital audio, and data all in one cable. Thus, it is HDMI's simplicity in addition to its functionality that makes it so appealing.

What Will HDMI 1.3 Do For Me?
When you purchase your new HDMI cabling, make sure it's HDMI 1.3. Here's what you can expect:

* Improved Color: HDMI 1.3 suports x.v. Color, a new international standard that greatly expands color space for the display of over one billion colors. HDMI 1.3 supports 10-bit, 12-bit and 16-bit (RGB or YCbCr) color depths (a.k.a Deep Color) for incredible detail.

* Higher Data Transmission Rate: HDMI 1.3 increases bandwidth to 10.2 gigabits per second (340 Mhz) which supports current HDTV formats including 1080p. Higher speeds mean the technology is capable of supporting higher frame rates, increased color depth, and higher screen resolutions. However, it is important to note that not all HDMI cabling offers bandwidth at the full 10.2 Gbps.

* Smaller Connector: HDMI 1.3 features a smaller plug for simpler interconnection of portable devices including HD camcorders.

* Improved Audio Quality: HDMI 1.3 supports 8-channel uncompressed lossless digital audio and is compatible with the new Dolby TrueHD digital surround sound format. It is compatible with compressed formats as well including DTS and Dolby Digital.

In summary, HDMI is the new standard in connecting your high-definition electronic devices. If you're in the market for a new HDTV, HD camcorder, or Blu-ray player, you'll definitely enjoy the convenience and clarity of picture and sound HDMI has to offer.

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