Definition: What is a Fiber Optic HDMI Cable
A fiber optic HDMI cable is a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) cable that transmits high-definition video and audio signals by using optical fiber as a transmission medium. Fiber optic HDMI cables work by converting HDMI signals into optical signals for transmission.
Fiber Optic HDMI Cable: Bandwidth and Data Transmission
Different versions of HDMI interfaces have different bandwidth capabilities, the following table shows the bandwidth comparison of these versions:
| Version | 1、HDMI 1.0 | 2、HDMI 1.3 | 3、HDMI 2.0 | 4、HDMI 2.1 | 5、HDMI 2.2 |
| Bandwidth | 4.96Gbps | 10.2Gbps | 18Gbps | 48Gbps | 96Gbps |
| Note | Initial version | Contains 3 TMDS channels | Higher resolution and frame rate | Higher resolution (7680×4320@60Hz) and refresh rate (4K@120Hz). | Supports uncompressed streaming of 4K@240Hz and above, higher resolution, and refresh rate video playback (8K@240Hz, 10K@120Hz) |
Fiber Optic HDMI Cable Core Technology Specification
HDCP
HDCP stands for High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection. This is a copy protection feature developed by Intel Corporation to protect the rights and interests of content creators against illegal copying of signals.
EDID
Extended Display Identification Data is a VESA-standard data format that contains parameters about the monitor and its performance.
CEC
CEC is Consumer Electronics Control, a specification that focuses on enhancing the user experience and enabling interoperability across multiple devices.
Fiber Optic HDMI Cable Types
HDMI cables can theoretically support up to 98.4 feet in length. However, the common length of HDMI cables is usually between 1.6 feet and 32.8 feet, which is enough length for most device connection needs. There are also different types of HDMI cable (see the chart below).
| Cable Type | RESOLUTION | BANDWIDTH | Application |
| Standard HDMI cable | 1080i or 720p | 4.95 Gb/s | Satellite TV, DVD player, and screen projector |
| High-speed HDMI cable | 1080p or 4K @ 30 Hz | 10.2Gb/s | Support 4K video game consoles and Blu-ray disc players |
| Ultra-high-speed HDMI cable | HDR and 4K @ 60Hz | 18Gb/s | It has low electromagnetic interference (EMI) and is suitable for HDMI Type A and D connectors |
What is a Fiber Optic HDMI Cable Connector
The HDMI connector, or high-definition multimedia interface, serves as a fully digital video and sound transmission interface. It boasts the capability to transmit uncompressed audio and video signals with ease. HDMI connectors are mainly divided into the following types:
HDMI Type A Connector
The most widely used devices for HDMI cables include flat-screen TVs, video equipment, computers, and so forth. These devices feature HDMI connectors with 19 pins, capable of carrying various video modes such as SDTV, EDTV, HDTV, UHD, and 4K. Additionally, the male connector has an outer size of 13.9mm×4.45mm, whereas the female connector has an inner size of 14mm×4.55mm, ensuring compatibility between these devices.
HDMI Type B Connector
It is mainly used in high-end display devices and is not widely used. There are 29 pins with 6 differential pairs.
Size: 21.2mm×4.45mm
HDMI Type C Connector
Smaller in size, it can be used in portable devices such as laptops, tablets, etc. The number of pins in the 19-pin configuration is still retained.
Size: 10.42mm×2.42mm
HDMI Type D Connector
Also called micro HDMI, it is used for micro devices. Also 19 pins, but with different pin assignments.
Size: 6.4mm×2.8mm
HDMI Type E Connector
Mainly used in automotive applications.
What is an HDMI Adapter
HDMI adapters are mainly used to match different power sources or interfaces so that the device can work normally in different environments. The HDMI adapter does not convert the signal but acts like a bridge to ensure the normal connection of the device.
What is an HDMI Converter
HDMI converter, High Definition Multimedia Interface Converter. Unlike HDMI devices, HDMI converters can convert signals and are devices that can convert HDMI digital signals to other types of signals. It allows users to transmit audio and video signals between incompatible devices, thus enabling the interconnection of devices. The commonly used categories are as follows:
HDMI to AV Converter
Convert HDMI digital signal to AV analog signal (red, yellow, and white), which is suitable for high-definition digital set-top boxes to connect to TV with AV interface and other products.
HDMI to VGA Converter
Convert HDMI signals to VGA analog video signals, which are suitable for audio and video equipment such as computer monitors and projectors.
HDMI to DVI Converter
Converts HDMI signals into DVI digital video signals, which are often used to connect PS4 to computer monitors and other related devices.
HDMI to SDI Converter
It converts HDMI high-definition digital signal into SDI digital serial signal, which is widely used in the radio and television industry and security monitoring field.
Fiber Optic HDMI Cable vs. Traditional Copper HDMI Cable
Bandwidth and Speed
Optical fiber HDMI cable utilizes optical fiber transmission technology, which has the capability to achieve high-bandwidth transmission without being hindered by signal attenuation. As a result, it typically supports data transmission rates of up to 18Gbps, effortlessly meeting the transmission demands of ultra-high-definition videos, such as 4K and 8K. In contrast, traditional copper HDMI cables are constrained by signal attenuation, posing challenges in transmitting high-resolution video.
Transmission Distance
Fiber optic HDMI cables have a longer lossless transmission distance, up to 300 meters or even more.
Traditional copper HDMI cables are recommended to be used within 10 meters, beyond which the signal quality will be significantly reduced, and a signal repeater is needed to enhance the signal.
Difficulty in Wiring
Fiber optic HDMI cables are very small, flexible, and lightweight, which not only makes them easy to install and cable, but also grants them an advantage over traditional cables. In comparison, the latter are usually coarser and heavier, leading to potential difficulties in some installation environments.
Material Cost
Optical fiber HDMI cable utilizes optical fiber as the transmission medium and, consequently, requires a photoelectric conversion chip, which makes it costly. In contrast, traditional cables employ copper as their transmission medium, resulting in a lower material cost.
Apply
Optical HDMI cable: more suitable for professional applications and scenarios with high-quality requirements, such as high-definition cinema, professional audio, and video production, monitoring systems, etc. For traditional copper HDMI cable: It is a cost-effective choice for home users, mainly used to connect the main unit to the monitor, the TV to the set-top box, etc.
Considerations for Choosing a Fiber Optic HDMI Cable
When choosing an optical HDMI cable, you need to pay attention to the transmission distance requirements, HDMI version and bandwidth, material and interface quality, brand and certification, and other considerations. Considering these factors can help you choose an HDMI cable that meets your needs.
