An HDMI splitter is a device used to connect multiple devices to a single source. This uses the HDMI video output from the source, which can be a BluRay player, Roku, or cable box, and distributes the HDMI signal to multiple devices.
Audio and video are split into two separate streams, which are simultaneously fed to separate monitors or televisions.
If you don’t have enough inputs on your AV or TV receiver and want to connect multiple TVs to one source, you can use an HDMI splitter to split the HDMI signal for this purpose. It’s also an inexpensive way to loop through all the wires around you to free up space when you need to swap too many cables and keep equipment useful and up-to-date.
However, in order to use an HDMI splitter, it must be compatible with the resolution you want to transmit and should work well because most of them don’t.
How do HDMI splitters work?
HDMI is a signal format for HD video, and with it there are various options for changing, amplifying, or adjusting the signal. An HDMI splitter is one of the simplest and most versatile ways of splitting an HDMI signal for multiple displays.
It is easy to deploy by simply plugging it in and setting it up in your living room or workplace to connect to a source and output to multiple devices.
– /
For example, if you have a Blu-ray player, you can plug it into a splitter that is connected to multiple displays and they both get the same Full-HD picture with the same sound as Blu-ray Ray player sends.
HDMI splitters take the signal from your source device and send the same signal to other displays as with the Blu-ray player (source) and TVs (displays).
Some HDMI splitters work like HDMI switches, which take multiple HDMI sources that you can switch or select between and send one cable to one TV.
If you purchase an HDMI splitter and find that it does not share HDMI signals, it is likely due to High Bandwidth Digital Content Production Technology (HDCP) – a feature built into media streamers, TVs, and cables that ensures that you are not playing. pirated content.
HDCP protects content by establishing a verified connection between your media streamer and screen, encrypting the signal to prevent illegal or unauthorized recording of content.
Without an HDCP-compliant setting, be it an HDMI splitter or video, nothing will work, and you will most likely end up seeing error messages instead of the content you are trying to stream.
The splitter processes HDCP signals and digital handshaking to read and match the signals expected by each device, reducing the potential for setup errors and signal incompatibilities.
However, some HDMI splitters can bypass the HDCP limitation. This is possible thanks to the fallback mode in HDCP, which allows any compatible content to fall back to a lower resolution and play normally if the setting is not HDCP compatible.
Note. If you are going to use an HDMI splitter for fair use applications such as making legitimate backups of your property, recording yourself while playing games, etc., HDMI signal sharing is not illegal. However, if you plan to use it to copy and distribute content without permission, splitting the HDMI signal is illegal.
The best HDMI splitters to buy
When looking for an HDMI splitter, look for HDMI version 1.3 (a or b) and 1.4 splitters as they offer one input and three or four outputs. Make sure the correct splitter comes with a power adapter, provides plenty of power to be efficient, has a cable long enough to connect your devices, and has enough resolution to deliver high quality graphics without distortion. </ P>
The splitter should also be compatible with your devices, be reasonably priced, and have an extensive warranty that extends over time in the event of any malfunction so that you can have it repaired or replaced if possible.
The best splitters allow you to connect and stream audio and video to different devices, and they are HDCP compliant and reliable. Below are some of the best that you can buy with high ratings.
Zettaguard ZW-140
This HDMI splitter is practical, stylish and offers much more than many other HDMI splitters on the market.
It features status lights on the front and the input port, outputs, and power connector on the back, so it’s easier to keep track of which displays you’re using. This is unlike other splitters that place them on the side or front of the device. It also has open side vents to keep it from overheating.
To set up a device, connect your HDMI input and output sources to a splitter and it will transmit the signal to your devices.
It offers high definition resolution for watching movies or playing games, but it can also support lower resolutions if you have an older screen model. It also offers support for all available audio formats.
Kinivo 501BN
Kinivo 501BN
This HDMI Splitter allows you to connect up to five HDMI input devices to one display output to reduce clutter in the space for a smooth transition.
It supports 4K 30Hz, 1080p and immersive 3D content, so you can watch your favorite movies or games in crisp and crystal clear quality.
The body of the device is made of hybrid aluminum and all ports are on the rear panel with front status indicators for power supply. Plus, it automatically switches based on the active input, so you can enjoy viewing without setup hassle, but you can still switch manually from the infrared (IR) remote control.
Kinivo offers a one-year warranty with lifetime support, although it’s limited to the US.
Fosmon HD 1832
Fosmon HD 1832
This reasonably priced HDMI splitter may not have well-organized ports like the others mentioned here, but it’s a better choice as it gives you five additional HDMI ports and a precision IR remote that you can use to switch between them.
It works well with multiple devices and supports resolutions up to 1080p and 3D, as well as HDMI 1.3b and HDCP 1.1.
One year warranty plus email customer support available.
OREY
OREI Strong>
It is an HDMI 1 × 2 splitter so it offers less performance, but it is ideal when you want to split the HDMI signal to send large amounts of data to different platforms at the same time.
It is reliable, efficient, and provides extensive support for a variety of audio formats such as Dolby-AC3 and TrueHD or LPCM, among others.
Among the features you’ll find in the OREI HDMI Splitter are a bulky metal case that protects the device and helps dissipate heat, and a plug-and-play mechanism that doesn’t require any technical knowledge or experience on your part. for customization and use.
It is economical, has a high-resolution display, and can be connected to display Full HD images, although it does not necessarily meet all needs.
–