HDMI 2.1 is an update of the HDMI specifications that boosts the video resolution and refresh rate capability of the HDMI standard. HDMI 2.1 specifications are able to support throughput to 48 Gbps, which can provide 8k refresh rates to 60 hertz, 4k refresh rates to 120 hertz, and resolutions to 10k. A new Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable is needed to hit 48 Gbps of bandwidth, and this new cable enables ultra-high bandwidth dependent features, such as uncompressed 8k video with high-dynamic range (HDR) capability.
In order to support these incredible speeds, HDMI 2.1 cabling has to incorporate extreme electromagnetic interference (EMI) protections and design features that maintain high signal integrity. Of increasing concern with modern cable applications is the interference by the growing number and variety of wireless devices in the modern home, office, public space, store, transit center, and factory. These devices are also increasingly sensitive to the high speed signals carried by HDMI cables, so the new low EMI capability of HDMI 2.1 cables must both protect the internal data line from interference and prevent radiation of internal signals to the outside world. Moreover, HDMI 2.1 cables are getting the added feature of HDMI Cable Power, which directly powers the HDMI cable from the connector, which makes the ease of the use of active HDMI cables comparable to passive HDMI cables.
HDMI 2.1 cables must do all this, while maintaining backwards compatibility with previous HDMI specifications and new HDMI 2.1 capabilities. New HDMI capabilities that come with the 2.1 specification include eARC simplifying connectivity and supporting advanced audio formats and even higher quality and variable refresh rate (VRR) technology for reducing lag/stutter/frame tearing. Other new HDMI 2.1 features include Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) which automatically allows for the best latency setting to be selected, and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) for video content which eliminates delays that result in blank screens prior to content being displayed.
Learn more about L-com’s HDMI products. And if you're looking to upgrade these see our DVI cable to HDMI cable assembly that we have in stock and ready to ship the same business day as your order.
