[monty12]

perhaps someone can help...

Is there any particular reason i would go for this:
HDMI Matrix over CAT5 Switch - by hdcable.co.uk – Free UK Delivery – Shipping Worldwide


When i could get this:
HDMI Switcher – Infinius 4x4 HDMI Switcher – Free UK Delivery – Worldwide Shipping
with 3 of these:
Long Distance HDMI – HDMI over Cat 5/Cat-6 Super Extender Baluns Kit – Free UK Delivery – Shipping Worldwide

and save myself £700.
I only need 3 because 1 of my TVs has an HDMI cable running to my rack.

Thanks!

[Jamie S]

The matrix over Cat5 switch also incorporates IR remote control at the remote displays and has the senders built into the main unit. Meaning it is less messy with all those senders attached via HDMI cables to the main unit with the alternative option you suggest.

[monty12]

I would have to convert one of the signals back to HDMI, so I would have one receiver in the cabinet.

I like the idea of the Cat5 one, but really doesn't seem worth it. is that the only reason, asthetics?

[Jamie S]

No, the fact that you can control the matrix switcher via the receiver units in the remote TV locations is also a main selling point.

[monty12]

Ah i see, sounds good.

However I am using Logitech Harmony 1100s (RF) to control the sources; do you think I could program this to control the switch??

[Jamie S]

Absolutely. It should be able to learn the commands from the matrix remote.

[Joe Fernand]

Its tricky getting the correct feature set when there are so many variables in the HDMI, HDCP and EDID signal chain.

HDMI 1.3 ought to be included in your requirements list.

If you go with a Matrix unit that's CAT5 output only keep in mind some units wont like you using short CAT5/6 cables and will require you loop approx 15m of CAT5/6 cable at the back of your rack if you require a local output - the alternative being a Matrix with HDMI plus CAT5/6 outputs.

IR over CAT5/6 or IR via wireless RF are both decent options if you are not employing an RS232 enabled control system - though keep in mind you may have to programme some form of control hierarchy into your handsets.

IR over CAT5/6 can be accomplished using HDMI Balun pairs - its not just available in an 'integrated' chassis.

When things get tricky a Matrix with inbuilt EDID learn mode is worth considering - though they are more expensive than most.

HDMI audio can be fun through a Matrix depending on where and when you want to use multi channel audio vs. stereo audio.

Joe