HDMI has grown into a very reliable and popular channel for high-definition digital connectivity. It is being adopted by most major consumer electronics and PC manufacturers worldwide.
HDMI High Speed with Ethernet, also known as HDMI version 1.4 offers some additional benefits as given below:
- HDMI Ethernet Channel: A data channel will be added to the HDMI cable that will enable high-speed bi-directional communication between connected devices. Users will be able to send and receive data via 100 Mb/sec Ethernet. The HDMI Ethernet Channel (HEC) will allow an internet enabled HDMI device to share its internet connection with other HDMI devices without the need for a separate Ethernet cable.
- Audio Return Channel: Reduces the number of cables required to deliver audio upstream for processing and playback.
- Improved Resolution Support: The new version supports Ultra 4K resolution of 4,096x2,160 at 24Hz and 3,840x2,160 at up to 30Hz.
- Improved Colours: HDMI-enabled display devices will be capable of reproducing more accurate life-like colours when connected to a digital still camera.
- Micro HDMI Connector: It is a 19-pin connector which is almost 50% smaller than the size of Mini HDMI connector. There would be new HDMI cables available in the market so as to take advantage of the HEC.
HDMI is available in the following four types:
- Standard HDMI Cable: Supports data rates up to 1080i/60
- High Speed HDMI Cable: Supports data rates beyond 1080p, including Deep Colour and all 3D formats of the new 1.4 specification
- Standard HDMI Cable with Ethernet: Includes Ethernet connectivity
- High Speed HDMI Cable with Ethernet: Ultra 4K Resolution and also includes Ethernet connectivity