HDMI distribution ?

roydonaldson · 27-03-2009, 8:11 AM

Hi there,

Just looking at the possibilities for HDMI distribution to multiple rooms. I'm thinking I'd need 2-4 inputs, local HDMI output and then distribution to max 4 zones.

I've seen this:

CAT5e/6 8 Port HDMI Splitter & Transmitter | Video Splitters & Extenders | Sharing, Converting, Extending | LINDY UK

and was wondering if anyone had experience of it and/or alternative suggestions.

Thanks,
Roy.

Joe Fernand · 27-03-2009, 9:26 AM

Hello Roy

How long are the Output cable runs and will you/anyone else in the house be happy with a single source on the Distribution network.

I would have thought a Matrix Switch (simultaneous output of the same or different Sources) would have been a more flexible solution.

Joe

vex · 27-03-2009, 9:27 AM

Intellix offer a good and direct solution.

4 HDMI inputs
4 Outputs (1 HDMI and 1 Twin RJ45s both working at the same time)

You just need to watch what TV's you are using at the other end. If they are a mix of 1080p and 720p then they will all drop down to the lowest common denominator.

HTH

V.

roydonaldson · 27-03-2009, 9:41 AM

Hi there,

As there is only myself and my wife, happy to only be able to watch one device at a time. Rather just not pay for multiple Sky+HD boxes when all I want to do is remotely watch them in Kitchen, Bedroom etc.

Remote locations are upstairs in bedroom, presuming cable run is from ground floor, under floorboards, underneath floor, up to loft, drop down to 1st floor TV. Approx. 20m. So, I'm presuming Cat5e is the way to go cabling wise ?

Roy.

Joe Fernand · 27-03-2009, 10:03 AM

Hello Roy

We find dual CAT5e or CAT6 + the required Balun pairs is the best option when you go over 15m.

On runs up to 15m a decent HDMI cable is a lower cost option.

The Requirement to have five outputs can make for a big jump in your costs - x4 output Distribution Amps and Switches are the most cost effective.

It may be more cost effective to combine a 1x2 DA + a x4 DA or Switch plus HDMI over CAT5 Balun pair on any runs over 15m.

Do you have distributed RF to each room - handy for IR pass back to the Source devices.

Joe

roydonaldson · 27-03-2009, 10:12 AM

I'm using URC MX-450's in my remote locations with IR over eyes at present. When I move, I will probably get one of the URC RF to IR devices and re-configure the MX-450's to do control over RF and so not require an IR distribution.

The URC remotes are so nice, shame they are so hard to get hold of generally in the UK.

Roy.

Joe Fernand · 27-03-2009, 10:36 AM

Hello Roy

URC is a good solution - lack of margin and potentially high tech support time/cost is the problem.

Happy to go through your HDMI requirements off line or in person the next time I'm over in Glasgow if you want to drop me a PM.

Joe