[jwarder]

Hi,

I need to spit the HDMI signal from my HTPC and do two runs of 10M & 15M will this be ok or will splitting cause problems?

Thanks,
Jack

[MarkTaylor]

Depends entirely on how you split, the cables you use and the ability of the devices to handle lower signal strength.

Do use an active powered device for the splitter, don't be tempted by one of those cheap unpowered 'Y' connectors.

You don't have to spend a fortune on the cables but do get something using a decent gauge of wire rather than something that looks like limp string

At the end of the day though a lot depends on the devices at either end so you'll have to try it an see.

Using a decent splitter you should be OK but worst case you may need to look at signal boosting if you have issues on the longer run.

[jwarder]

Ok thing is i'm having to wire for this now and I don't have the equipment to test it on, so if I run the cables now and if the worst comes to the worst I may have to boost the signal does that sound ok?

[MarkTaylor]

Are these cables going to be plastered in or similar?

If so and you don't have the equipment to test yet then it would change the amount of money I'd suggest spending on the cables.

It is fine going cheap and taking a chance when you have the ability to test and return if you have problems, but if you can't test then you need to use sources that do test the cables for you rather than just ship them and hope.

Do you have any HDMI equipped devices so you can test the cables even if not with the right kit?

Remember, the worst case is you get a faulty cable and no amount of amplification will help you there.

[jwarder]

Maybe it is worth building up the HTPC to see if the 15M cable is ok, i'm going to go for a cheap cable to start with for about 20quid and see what happens.

Jack

[MarkTaylor]

Make sure you test it at the highest resolution you will use.

£20 is very much a low end price for a 15m cable so do look at build quality as well, nothing worse than forgetting to disconnect something and accidentally ripping off a cable end when you move a piece of kit.

Personally I'd be looking in the £30-40 territory for that length but if you get luck with something around £20 then so be it.

[bobtex]

Frankly, I am using a 15m cable that was also similarly cheap. It works for what I want it to do, but that doesn't necessarily mean it will work for you. It also depends on the source and destination, not just the cable. I am a proponent of cheap cables though - if it works it works.

Bear in mind that a lot of splitters claim they will carry the signal perfectly up to 15m from the splitter itself. I've found that to be true generally.

If you already have all the equipment then by all means give them a shot, if it doesn't work you can add a splitter or amplifier later no problem.

[jwarder]

Thanks for your help I will make sure I test it.

Can anyone here give me some advice on the Harmony 895 or 1000?