When you begin browsing online for new HDMI cables for your home entertainment system, you will soon see that there are many different types to choose from. One of the main differences between HDMI cables is in connector types, of which there are five main options.

The different HDMI cable connectors available are:

• Type A, the standard nineteen pin connector
• Type B, a type with 29 pins that can carry twice the video bandwidth of Type A
• Type C, a mini-connector used with portable devices
• Type D, a micro-connector which looks like a Type A but smaller, resembling a micro USB connector
• Type E, an Automotive Connection System designed for use in vehicles

The reason there are so many different types of connector is that technology is advancing all the time, resulting in products being released and in turn, new ways that HDMI can be incorporated and used in all of them. For example, the Type C connector was not needed until the home electronics market became flooded with smart phones, digital cameras, mp3 players and tablet computers.

To work out which HDMI cable connector you need, think about what you will be using it for. Standard home entertainment setups (i.e. connecting a Blu-ray player to a TV) will only need a Type A connector, whilst a connection between a digital camera and a TV may require a Type C mini-connector.

The first thing to do is to choose your projector, and whilst doing so you should look at factors such as contrast ratio, screen size, brightness and picture quality. You should also look for an HD projector which has a port for a HDMI cable.

Next, you need to:

• Mount your projector on a low, out of the way coffee table or other surface, or mount it on the ceiling
• Use an HDMI cable to connect your projector to your source device (i.e. a laptop or a Blu-ray player)
• To enable sound, connect your source device to your receiver, then connect up your speakers
• Remember to tilt or otherwise adjust the projector to align the image on the screen, and focus if needed

If you need to run an HDMI cable from your source to your projector over a very long distance, you will need to invest in high performance long HDMI cables, or use HDMI cable extenders.

The head of Sky 3D, John Cassy, has recently revealed that the channel has very ambitious plans for 2012. Speaking to 3D Focus, he said:

“We’ve learnt so much over the past 12 months. We’ve raised the bar and the technology is catching up with the scale of our ambition. Some of the shows we have planned for 2012 will blow viewers away. And with strong 3D TV sales forecast in 2012 more people will get a chance to view than ever before.”

If you want to enjoy Sky 3D and see what shows the channel has planned for this year, including the David Attenborough-hosted Galapagos 3D, the ten part reality show Safari Park 3D and numerous gigs, concerts and sports events, you will need to have the full 3D home entertainment package up and running. As well as a 3D-enabled TV, appropriate Sky box and a decent pair of 3D glasses, you will also need an HDMI cable (version 1.4) or two.

Anyone who has ever been to see a 3D film at the cinema will tell you that the experience is truly amazing, but what’s even more incredible is that you can now enjoy the same experience in your very own home.

If you plan to build up your very own 3D home entertainment centre in your living room, you will need to get a few pieces of equipment first. Here’s what you will need:

• A 3D-enabled HD TV, preferably widescreen for the full cinema experience
• A pair of 3D glasses, if they aren’t included with your 3D TV purchase
• 3D sources, such as a 3D-ready Blu-ray player and discs, a PS3 or Xbox and compatible 3D games and films
• High speed HDMI 1.4 cables, which come with an in-built Ethernet Channel for device networking as well as support for 3D technology and super-high resolutions

When buying this equipment, make sure you get the very best quality you can afford, as only one poor component can spoil what would otherwise be a mind-blowing 3D experience. If you need any more help as to what 3D equipment to buy, speak to a home electronics expert.

In the first part of this guide, we looked at one of the features offered by HDMI cables – support for advanced colour spaces. We also took a brief look at what colour spaces, but let’s now move onto the specific colour spaces HDMI cables can offer support for.

Deep Color

Deep Color, support for which is offered by HDMI 1.3 and HDMI 1.4 cables, allows HDTVs and other high definition displays use billions rather than millions of colours. This creates displays that are as vivid and accurate as it is possible to get. Viewers with Deep Color support can also enjoy increased contrast ratio, along with smoother tonal transitions.

xvYCC

Also included in HDMI 1.3 cables and HDMI 1.4 cables is support for the colour standard known as xvYCC, or x.v.Color, which supports up to 1.8 times as many colours as existing HDTV signals. Whilst Deep Color increases the number of colours there are available, xvYCC allows your HDTV to display them more accurately, expanding the available range to allow the display to include the whole range of colours the human eye is able to recognise.

If you look down the list of features and functions offered by your HDMI cables, it is likely that you will not understand all of them unless you are something of an electronics buff. However, by finding out a little bit more about the cables which connect up your home entertainment system, you can unlock the potential of all your devices and get the best from your setup.

One thing that many people ask about when looking at HDMI features is colour spaces, advanced support for which is offered by HDMI cable versions 1.3 and beyond. So, what are colour spaces, how do they affect your home entertainment system, and why do your HDMI cables need to offer support for them?

In terms of home entertainment, a colour space is a system for representing a colour palette numerically, for use in printing and in digital displays. There are a few types of these colour spaces commonly used in home entertainment, and some are more advanced than others.

In part 2 of this guide to colour spaces and HDMI cables, we will look at two of the most desirable colour spaces used in home entertainment devices – Deep Color and xvYCC.

3D is a hugely exciting innovation in the world of cinema, and the technology is now breaking into the home entertainment market in a very big way. Consumers can now have the opportunity to watch 3D TV and films, play 3D games and explore the limitations of the technology in their very own homes, a prospect that would have seemed impossible just a few years ago.

If you have recently spent your hard-earned cash on a 3D-enabled TV, it is very important that you get all the essential accessories to allow you to get the best from your investment. You may not be aware of this, but your standard analogue connector cables cannot generally be used to connect up a 3D TV.

Even your HDMI cables may not be up to the job, unless you have one specific version. The only version that currently offers support for 3D content is the HDMI 1.4 cable, the latest available. This version also offers an Ethernet channel, a number of connector types for portable devices, and support for super-high resolutions. This is the cable you need to choose if you have recently bought a 3D TV and are ready to install it.

Shopping for HDMI cables isn’t as easy as you may think. Even if you know which version and what length you need, you are still likely to encounter a number of different options to choose from.

You should know that there are five main types of HDMI cable. These are:

• The standard HDMI cable. This is designed to be able to cope with most home entertainment tasks, and can transmit the HDMI resolutions most often used in cable and satellite TV

• The standard HDMI cable with Ethernet. This cable offers the same performance as the previous type, but with the useful addition of an Ethernet channel for device networking

• The high speed HDMI cable. This cable can handle more advanced technologies such as 3D, as well as higher resolutions

• The high speed cable with Ethernet. Offering the same advanced performance as the previous type, but with an Ethernet channel for device networking

• The standard automotive HDMI cable. This is a special type of HDMI cable designed solely for use in vehicles, and is tested to higher performance standards in order to overcome the challenges of implementing HDMI in moving vehicles.

The consumer electronics giant Toshiba has launched a brand new 3D product onto the market, in the form of its first ever full HD 3D camcorder.

The Toshiba Camileo Z100 offers a dazzling array of features, including a dual lens system and 8x digital zoom, as well as full HD 2D capture (1920 x 1080 at 30fps). What’s more, the camcorder can take pictures up to 16MP thanks to its two CMOS, 5MP quality image sensors, which also have back side illumination.

Although the camcorder has a 7.1cm glasses-free touchscreen, users are best viewing their home videos and directorial efforts on their widescreen TVs at home. Handily, the Camileo Z100 also includes a mini USB 2.0 port and a mini HDMI cable port so that you can connect the device to your home computer for video editing and to your HD 3D TV for viewing.

It is not yet known how much the Toshiba Camileo Z100, due to be released in the UK in just a few months times, will cost. However, anyone planning to buy one should make sure to factor in the cost of a great quality HDMI cable into their budget too.

It would be nice if every piece of technology you use in your everyday life would work as it is supposed to, without you having to troubleshoot problems. However, it is not always so straightforward, especially when connecting up devices in your home entertainment system.

As with any new technology, you will need to make a few adjustments to your setup if you plan to enjoy 3D in your home.

The following are a couple of the most common problems relating to HDMI cables and 3D TV, and how to fix them.

1. When trying to play 3D films, my TV screen just goes blank
The most likely cause for this is that one of the components is not set up for 3D, such as your TV for example. You need to ensure you get a 3D-enabled TV and Blu-player, plus HDMI 1.4 cables, in order to watch 3D movies.

2. When I try to watch a 2D film on my 3D TV, the screen just goes blank
To fix this problem, you need to change your TV’s settings so that it can display both 2D and 3D content. The best setting may be ‘auto’ or something similar, to tell your TV to display all incoming signals.

The biggest issue many people face when trying to buy new HDMI cables is whether they should go for the cheapest ones available, or whether they should see a higher price tag and a well-known brand as a sign of quality and choose those cables instead.

This is a topic that has been fiercely debated by home entertainment fans for years, but there is quite a simple answer available. All you need to do when shopping for HDMI cables is look for those that display the label ‘HDMI Certified’. Without this certification, there is no guarantee that the cable you buy will perform up to the expected level.

Of course, there are sometimes benefits to be gained by spending a little more on your HDMI cables. You can now find high speed cables, or those with an in-built Ethernet Channel, which offer you more features and a superior level of performance. You may also want to buy the latest version of HDMI cables, HDMI 1.4.

All of these varieties of HDMI cable tend to cost a little more, but the difference in price is negligible, especially when you consider the benefits you get with these kinds of advanced cables.

When you upgrade one part of your home entertainment system, you often find that you have to make changes to other devices and components so that everything is compatible.

Some people worry that this is the case with HDMI cables, believing that they will have to replace all their older equipment once they buy the latest version of HDMI cable. This shouldn’t be the case, as each new version of HDMI cable is specially designed to be ‘backwards compatible’ with the versions that came before it.

What this means is that even if you have equipment that is designed for use with HDMI 1.4 cables, you will usually still be able to get it to work with an HDMI 1.2 or 1.3 cable, and get good sound and picture quality.

If it is simply a case of changing the HDMI cable, a relatively inexpensive component to replace, it might be advisable to do so. You get far better performance and far more features and benefits with newer versions of HDMI cables, allowing you to enjoy a superior viewing experience rather than just an average one. After all, you want to get the best out of your devices, rather than just being happy that they work at all.

Although they may look pretty simple, and they are straightforward to use, HDMI cables are actually quite sophisticated in the way that they work.

One of the biggest mysteries is how HDMI cables are able to send such high quality signals, and send both audio and video signals in the same cable. Let’s take a quick look at how they send signals…

Standard HDMI cables generally have around 19 pins, and it is from these pins that the signals begin their journeys. They travel from the pins through twisted pairs of copper cable until they reach their destination – the display device.

A total of three audio and three video channels travel through each cable, requiring two pins each. A further pair of pins is occupied by the TMDS clock, which helps devices to synchronise incoming data, and all of these pairs of pins are protected from signal interference by a shield wire.

The other pins on HDMI cables are used to carry other signals, such as the Consumer Electronics Channel (CEC), for example. In HDMI 1.4 cables, these pins may be used to carry the signal for the Ethernet Channel or the Audio Return Channel (ARC).

If you take a look at the back of your home entertainment system (usually behind your TV stand or cabinet), will you find a terrifying tangle or wires and cables? This is the case for many people.

This cluttered arrangement can not only make your living room look a mess; it can also make it difficult for you to access certain parts of your home entertainment system.

So, what is the solution? You ideally need to cut down on the number of wires and cables you use, but if all of these are in use and are important, you need another solution. The answer could be to replace all of your analogue connector cables – SCART cables, S-video and composite video cables – with HDMI cables.

One of the main benefits of HDMI cables is that they are able to carry digital audio and video signals in the same cable. So, where you would previously need separate cables, one for audio and one for video, now you only need one HDMI cables.

If you want to streamline your system even further, why not choose ultra-flat HDMI cables? These can be discretely hidden under carpets and floors, as well as behind skirting boards and along walls.

If you are a fan of 3D technology and you want to own a piece of it in your very own home, the latest announcement at the Consumer Electronics Show 2012 will be very exciting for you.

During CES 2012, the electronics company Bang & Olufsen (B&O) revealed that it plans to release a brand new 3D TV for the consumer market. The BeoVision 12-65 is a 65 inch, ultra-flat plasma TV capable of exceptional 2D and 3D performance.

As well as having a very thin screen, the BeoVision 12-65 also has an optical illusion included in the design as well as a partly integrated wall bracket. All of these features mean that it sits barely an inch or two away from the wall for an ultra-modern and sophisticated finish.

B&O’s new innovation also offers 7.1 surround sound through five speaker units, as long as they are set up in the right formation.

If this new 3D TV sounds like exactly the sort of advanced technology your living room has been waiting for, make sure you have your HDMI 1.4 cables (with their support for high resolution 3D technology) at the ready.

Anyone who enjoys shooting their own video material and uses HDMI cables to display the fruits of their directorial efforts will soon have a new tool to play with.

Sony is reportedly planning to launch a new, more compact update to its first 3D camcorder, the Sony HDR-TDR10E 3D camcorder. For what has been reported to be a similar price, this new version -the Sony HDR-TD20VE 3D camcorder – is around a third smaller than its predecessor.

The TD20VE also offers users the ability to take 20 megapixel photos, shoot full 2D and 3D video, and use a 3.5 inch glasses-free 3D screen. The only other changes are:

• A smaller inter-axial difference between the two wide angle lenses
• A shorter focal length range
• 185g less in weight

If you plan to purchase Sony’s new 3D camcorder when it is released in the UK, you will need to ensure you have the right HDMI cable ready. An HDMI 1.4 cable with the appropriate connector (micro or mini) will allow you to connect your 3D camcorder to your wide-screen 3D TV and view your video content in all their stunning, high definition 3D glory.

If the last time you bought an HDMI cable was a couple of years ago, you may not realise that there have been a couple of new HDMI cable versions introduced. Each version is an update of the one that came before it, so it is usually worth buying the newer version.

The latest version available is HDMI 1.4 cables. It is not absolutely essential that you buy this version if you have a standard home entertainment system (i.e. if you plan to connect up devices such as games consoles, DVD and Blu-ray players to an LCD HD TV). An HDMI 1.3a, 1.3b, or 1.3c cable will be perfectly fine for standard setups.

There are a couple of reasons why you may want to upgrade to the latest version, however. The revision to the specification of HDMI 1.4 cables involved the addition of a few new features, including support for 3D, support for super-high resolutions, the Ethernet channel and the Audio Return Channel.

This means that if you have or are planning to buy a super high resolution or a 3D-enabled TV, you will need to buy HDMI 1.4 cables.

If you are lucky enough to have received an Xbox 360 console for Christmas, or you have snapped one up for yourself in the January sales, you should consider buying an HDMI cable for it.

There are many ways to connect up games consoles, but these often involve using a lot of different cables for audio and video. This can leave your home entertainment system, and your living room, looking cluttered.

There is a way you can reduce this tangle of cables and still experience an amazing gaming experience, however. The solution is HDMI cables, which can carry both audio and video in the same cable, eliminating the need to use an extra cable. This should cut down the amount of cables you need to use in your home entertainment system.

HDMI cables also offer many benefits over other types of cables, especially if you buy a high speed HDMI cable with an Ethernet channel. You will experience unrivalled picture and sound quality, and you will also get full support for 3D technology if you need it.

Before you buy an HDMI cable, make sure your Xbox 360 has an HDMI port. If it does, you should be all set to enjoy some of the best hours of gaming you have ever experienced.

As a home entertainment fan, you will no doubt know that HDMI cables are the best way to connect up devices and components in your system. They offer many benefits over other analogue cables, and they really are the connection interfaces of the future.

It is difficult to know everything there is to know about HDMI cables, mainly because for something that looks so simple, they perform a surprisingly large number of features and functions. One of these is CEC, which stands for Consumer Electronics Control.

Although you may not realise it, CEC is hugely beneficial for you as the viewer. This is because this feature allows you to control and command up to ten CEC-enabled devices as long as they are connected via HDMI cables. What’s more, CEC also enables devices to control and command each other, without you having to lift a finger.

With CEC, you can enjoy features such as One Touch Play, which means that the device automatically becomes the active source when playback starts. You can also enjoy One Touch Record, System Standby and Timer Programming, all features that you may have been enjoying for months without realising that the amazing CEC is behind it all.

Although many versions of the HDMI cable specification have been released over the years, some of the earlier versions are no longer in use. This is because each new version is an update of the last, with new features and functions added, making the version that came before it virtually obsolete.

There are two versions of HDMI cables which are still widely used. These are HDMI 1.3 (a, b and c) cables and HDMI 1.4 versions.

An HDMI 1.3 cable is the perfect version for most people, as it contains a host of useful features and support for all HD technology. These cables are cheap to buy and easy to come across, and they will serve you well for years to come.

However, as HDMI 1.4 cables are an update of the 1.3 specification, they are bound to contain more impressive features. These include the Audio Return Channel (ARC), the Ethernet Channel, support for super high-resolution displays and crucially, support for 3D technology.

This means that unless you want to upgrade your home entertainment system and start enjoying 3D or super high-resolution technology, your HDMI 1.3 cable will be perfectly acceptable. However, if you ever plan to buy a 3D-enabled display or other component (including 3D games consoles), an HDMI 1.4 cable is essential.

When looking for advice on buying and using HDMI cables, you might come across some information relating to keeping your HDMI cable connectors seated. But what does this mean?

To keep an HDMI cable connector seated means to keep it connected to the HDMI ports in the devices it is connected to. If you buy a poor quality HDMI cable or one that is too heavy, it could fall out of the device it is connected to. This can interrupt your viewing and prove extremely annoying.

You may also have difficulties keeping your HDMI cable connectors seated if you have connected a cable vertically to a wall-mounted flat panel TV, or if the setup or arrangement of your home entertainment system is badly designed and will not allow you to get a flush fit between your HDMI cables and your devices.

There are a few things you can do to overcome this problem. You can:

• Buy HDMI cables with rotate and swivel heads, as these can be adjusted to fit properly even when placed at awkward angles
• Choose ultra flat HDMI cables, which are not only lightweight but will also fit along walls, in skirting boards and under carpets and floors
• Go for better quality HDMI cables every time

The electronics giant LG has announced that in 2012, it plans to release a flurry of brand new 3D products. These include state of the art 3D TV displays and other devices, but the latest announcement reveals that LG will launch three new 3D laptop computers.

If you are a fan of 3D technology, you will doubtless be very excited at this news. What it will mean is that you will be able to enjoy 3D technology in virtually every part of your home entertainment system. You can watch 3D films and TV content on your 3D-enabled TV, and then pop on your laptop for more 3D fun.

Amongst the many features promised by LG in its new 3D laptops, the most exciting are the glasses-free 3D displays, the 3D editing programmes for videos and games, the 3D dual webcams and the 4.1 channel 3D sound.

Provided you have HDMI 1.4 cables in your possession, you will be able to edit video and games on your 3D laptop, connect the device to your 3D TV and then enjoy your handiwork on the big screen.

These latest announcements from LG will revolutionise the way you use your home entertainment system, but this new technology would be nothing without the support of the trusty HDMI cable.

If you have only just heard of HDMI cables and you have never used one before, you may find the technology quite difficult to grips with.

To start with, let’s find out what HDMI actually is. HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface, and it is a digital connection interface capable of carrying multi-channel audio and video from source to display.

Ever since it was introduced, HDMI began to replace other types of cables, such as SCART leads, S-Video and composite video cables. These are fast becoming obsolete, as HDMI has so many benefits over them.

Benefits of HDMI cables over other cable types

• Superior quality. HDMI is able to deliver exceptional quality images and sound

• No loss of signal. As HDMI is all digital, there is no loss in the quality of the signal. Analogue interfaces have to convert the signal, which can result in diminished signal quality

• Ease of use and a clutter-free home entertainment system. Unlike other cables, HDMI cables can carry both audio and video signals in the same quality, effectively halving the number of cables you need.

• Affordability. Excellent quality HDMI cables can be found at very affordable prices if you shop online

HDMI cables have many advanced features and functions, not all of which are easy to understand. at first. One of these is HDCP, which stands for High Bandwidth Digital Content Protection.

What is HDCP?

High Bandwidth Digital Content Protection is a copy protection scheme which has been specially designed to prevent digital data from being intercepted midstream, as it is carried from source (i.e. DVD player) to display (i.e. TV set).

Any source component of your home entertainment system which is compatible with the HDCP scheme will have a secure connection with any compliant display, so that data transfer can be carried out safely and securely.

All HDCP sessions result in the exchange of keys between devices. The source device queries the display, to make sure it is HDCP compliant. Some non HDCP- devices, like PCs for example, will work with any display that is DVI compliant, but HDCP compliant devices will only work with HDCP compliant displays.

If you have any more questions about HDCP and how it will affect you and your home entertainment system, you should seek professional advice from an HDMI cable expert.

HDMI cables sometimes come with different connectors, and you may find yourself a little confused as to which one you should opt for. Most people will need standard Type A HDMI cable connectors, but there are some cases when you might need a different connector type.

One of these other connectors is the Type E HDMI cable connector, also known as the Automotive Connection System. This connector has been specifically designed to add HDMI functionality within vehicles.

How does an Automotive Connection System work?

To use an Automotive Connection System, you will first need to have an in-vehicle HDMI enabled system. You can then use a Standard Automotive HDMI cable to connect external devices, such as digital cameras, camcorders and portable Blu-ray players.

Most people use such an in-vehicle system to play video content on seat-back displays, so as to keep the kids occupied during long car journeys, but there are other uses for it too.

The reason you need a special cable and connector type to add HDMI functionality is because you need a system which is suited to an environment where vibration, noise and heat are all issues.

One of the most useful is the HDMI micro connector, which is generally available with HDMI 1.4 cables. This micro connector closely resembles the standard (Type A) HDMI cable, in its shape and in its 19 pin layout, but in miniature. This compact cable connector can also do everything that standard HDMI cable connectors can, and includes all of the amazing features and functions of the HDMI 1.4 specification.

The biggest benefit of the HDMI cable micro connector is that it can be used to connect up and add HDMI functionality to a wide range of portable devices. As long as there is an HDMI port available, you can use the micro connector on your:

• Mobile phone or smartphone
• Digital camera
• Camcorder
• Portable media player and MP3 player
• Laptop or tablet computer

In short, the micro connector can be used on any portable device which requires HDMI quality but where space is at a premium. Simply look for an HDMI port, then plug in your cable and start enjoying the many benefits HDMI has to offer.

2012 looks set to be an exciting year for home entertainment fans, with many advanced products all set to be launched onto the market. One of these is the 84 inch, Ultra Definition 3D TV from LG, which will be available to buy some time this year.

LG’s new 3D TV will be the ultimate model of its kind, boasting amazing features such as 3D Depth Control, 3D Sound Zooming and up to four times the resolution of any HD TV currently on the market. It will also feature the Smart TV ecosystem, which will give viewers access to premium content services as well as around 1,200 apps.

The president and CEO of LG, Havis Kwon, said:

“LG is pushing the limits of home entertainment innovation with this 3D UD TV,”

“We are bringing together all our Smart TV and 3D knowledge in the 3D UD TV in order to demonstrate to the CES audience that LG is committed to being the world’s leading brand for immersive home entertainment in 2012 and beyond.”

If you’re planning to save up to buy LG’s revolutionary new 3D TV this year, make sure you you’re your HDMI 1.4 cables ready. This advanced preparation will allow you to connect up your TV and enjoy it the moment you get it home.

If you are considering buying HDMI 1.4 cables, the latest version available, you will need to know a little about the new features and functions that these advanced cables offer.

One term you might come across whilst researching HDMI 1.4 cables is 4K. This refers to displays with very high resolutions, such as those that are around four times the resolution of a standard 1080p device.

HDMI 1.4 cables offer support for a number of 4K formats, including:

• 3840 pixels wide by 2160 pixels high
• 4096 pixels wide by 2160 pixels wide

What this means for you is that if you have an advanced, high resolution TV or projector display, your HDMI 1.4 cable will be able to support the technology fully, so that you can get the best out of all your advanced devices. These high resolution displays are often very expensive, so you need to make sure your money is well spent by getting a compatible HDMI cable.

To get started, start browsing online for a high speed HDMI 1.4 cable. You may even want to look for HDMI 1.4 cables which also have an Ethernet channel, for advanced functionality.

It’s the start of a brand new year, so what better time is there to update your home entertainment system? If you didn’t get all the electronics devices and handy gadgets you wanted for Christmas, you could take advantage of the brilliant deals and offers available in the January sales.

If you manage to snap up a widescreen HD LCD or Plasma TV in the sales, you will also need to track down an HDMI cable or two in order to connect everything up when you get home.

The best way to find the right HDMI cable for your system is to check the manufacturer’s instructions that come with your TV, then head online to search for a compatible HDMI cable. Ideally, you should be looking for HDMI 1.3 (a, b or c) or HDMI 1.4 cables, as these have the most features and support for more technologies.

Buying your HDMI cables online can often work out much cheaper than buying them on the High Street, and if you choose a website that offers next day delivery, you will be able to start enjoying your new HD TV as soon as tomorrow!

Until quite recently, most people would use TVs, DVD players and sound systems in their home entertainment systems. However, consumer electronics technology is advancing at a rapid pace, and there are now many new additions to the standard home entertainment systems.

Tablet computers are the latest gadget of choice in most homes, including the Motorola Xoom tablet. If you have one of these devices, or if you have just received one as a Christmas present, did you know you can incorporate it into your home entertainment system?

Using the HDMI port on the side of your Motorola Xoom tablet, you can connect an HDMI cable to enjoy content on your living room flatscreen TV. Simply snap photos, record or download video content, plug in your cable (one end to the tablet, the other to the HDMI port on the back of your TV) and start watching.

You can even share content from your Xoom tablet with an HD projector or other projector screen, if you have access to one. However, you will need to get yourself an HDMI to VGA converter in addition to your HDMI cable.

Buying an HDMI cable isn’t quite as simple as it may first appear. Not all HDMI cables are the same, and there are a few decisions you will have to make to find your ideal solution. One of these decisions relates to HDMI cable connectors, and here are the options you will have to choose from:

Casing and materials

You can lose signal strength by choosing cheap molded plastic HDMI connectors, which is why you should look for cables which offer gold or silver plated connectors, or even die-cast HDMI cables.

Connector type

In total, there are five HDMI cable connector types. These are:

• Type A – this is the standard 19 pin connector, with enough bandwidth to support for everything from EDTV and SDTV to HDTV.
• Type B – this 29 pin connector offers double the bandwidth of Type A connectors, so you can use it with very high resolution displays
• Type C – this is a mini connector found in HDMI 1.3 cables, and it is designed for use with portable devices. It is essentially a mini version of the Type A connector
• Type D – this is a micro connector which looks like an USB connector
• Type E – this is an Automotive Connection System used to implement HDMI in vehicles

One of the most commonly asked questions relating to HDMI cables is – what equipment is needed in order to use them?

If you aren’t familiar with the technology, HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface. It is an all-digital connection type specifically designed to carry both high definition audio and video in a single cable. It allows you to connect up your home entertainment system and get the very best from it.

There are three key components you will need to have in order to start enjoying the benefits offered by HDMI cables. These are:

1. An HDMI source, such as a set-top box, games console or a disc player
2. An HDMI-enabled display, like an HD TV or projector
3. The right HDMI cable

Setting up an HDMI cable is quite simple. All you need to do is to connect one end of your HDMI cable to the source device, and the other to the display. However, it is important to choose the right HDMI cable, as different versions offer support for different features and technologies. For example, if you want to enjoy 3D content, you will need HDMI 1.4 cables (the latest version), along with 3D-enabled devices.

Following on from airing Strictly Come Dancing in 3D, which proved hugely popular with viewers, the BBC is planning to screen its first 3D film on New Year’s Day.

The film that has been chosen is StreetDance 3D, a Vertigo Films production, which follows a London dance crew as they prepare to compete in the UK Street Dance Championships. In return for using their rehearsal space, the street dancers must work alongside ballet dancers from the Royal Dance School.

This promises to be a real treat for fans of 3D TV and film, especially for those who are lucky enough to receive a 3D-enabled TV as a Christmas present this year. However, the only way you will be able to hook up your 3D TV and enjoy StreetDance 3D courtesy of the BBC is with HDMI 1.4 cables.

HDMI 1.4 cables are the only cables of their kind to support 3D technology, and they will help you to get the best out of your viewing experience. With your 3D TV installed and connected using HDMI cables, all you will need to do is reach for the last of the mince pies and enjoy a stunning 3D presentation of one of last year’s hit dance films.

You might think that all HDMI cables are the same, but this isn’t the case. They vary immensely when it comes to things like the length of the cable, the version and the connector type.

One difference you might note when shopping for HDMI cables is the shape of the connector and the wire. One of the most popular of these amongst home entertainment fans is the ultra flat HDMI cable, because of the many benefits it offers.

Ultra flat HDMI cables differ to standard versions because the cable is flat, rather than round. A flat cable can be useful in a wide range of different situations and home entertainment setups. For example, they can be used:

• Under carpets, rugs and other types of floor covering, without causing an obstruction
• In home entertainment setups where there is limited space available at the back
• Along or behind walls or skirting boards
• In-wall

Ultra flat HDMI cables offer all the same superior features and functions as standard versions, but
a lot of consumers also think that flat HDMI cables look a lot neater and tidier, as they can be hidden and managed much more easily.

The latest version of the Mac Mini computer, which was released in May 2011, includes HDMI functionality as standard. Using the in-built HDMI port, you can transfer high-definition audio and video content over an HDMI cable to other devices, such as your TV screen.

As long as your TV also has an HDMI port, you can enjoy all the content on your laptop on the big screen. You can put on video presentations, screen movies, play games and music, and put on a slideshow of all your holiday snaps – or whatever else you like.

The following are a few quick steps you will need to follow to connect your Mac Mini computer to your TV via HDMI cables:

1. Turn on your TV or other HDMI display device, and select the HDMI input
2. Connect one end of your HDMI cable to the HDMI input port on the back of your TV
3. Plug in the other end of your HDMI cable to the HDMI output port on the Mac Mini (if you have an older version of the Mac Mini, without a native HDMI port, you will need to use a Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapter)
4. Turn on your Mac Mini, which should automatically detect the device and configure itself appropriately

Browsing online for HDMI cables, the endless lists of technical specifications, functions and features can be quite overwhelming. However, you want to ensure you are buying HDMI cables that offer good value for money with an extensive range of good features, as well as being the best suited to your home entertainment needs.

When shopping online for HDMI cables, look out for the following features:

• At least 15.3 GBPS bandwidth
• Up to 2160p resolution
• A high speed Ethernet channel
• Gold or silver plating (24 Carat) for a better signal
• Support for 3D technology
• An Audio Return Channel (ARC)
• Full support for Deep Colour spaces
• Triple Mylar Shielding
• Nitrogen gas injected cables
• Suitability for in-wall use
• Fast delivery (ideally, next-day delivery)
• A decent warranty of at least five years (some manufacturers offer lifetime warranties, which is a good indication of the quality of the product)

You don’t necessarily need your HDMI cable to have every single one of these features. However, the more advanced features on offer the better your home entertainment experience will be, but you may find these HDMI cables to be a little more expensive.

In most home entertainment systems, everything will be grouped together and there won’t be much space between devices. This means that you will only need standard length HDMI cables.

In some situations, however, you will need to use longer HDMI cables. For example, longer cables will be needed when connecting up devices in different rooms, or in different parts of very large or awkwardly-shaped rooms.

You can buy long HDMI cables, but you need to ensure you get those that have built in HDMI equalisers or signal boosters. This is because over long distances, the device (i.e. a DVD player) powering the signal may not be strong enough to supply the monitor (i.e. your TV) with a strong, clear signal. The result of this could be a loss of picture or signal degradation.

Ideally, you should look for long HDMI cables which have special signal boosting qualities, such as extenders, boosters or equalisers. They should also be lab tested to perform at certain speeds and over certain distances, although this is not a legal requirement for manufacturers.

If you still aren’t sure which HDMI cables to buy, make sure you consult an expert on HDMI technology for some sound advice.

The brilliant features and functions offered by HDMI cables are too many to possibly describe in detail, but there are a couple that stand out more than others. One of the most popular features amongst viewers and home entertainment fans is Intelligent Communication.

What is Intelligent Communication?

HDMI has allowed the manufacturers of consumer electronics products to include two-way communication in their devices. This enables a world of new functionality, where devices can communicate with each other without you, the viewer, having to lift a finger.

A key example of this type of communication is one-touch play. This is where you press one button on one remote control, and watch as your HD TV, surround sound system and all other connected components power up at once, ready for you to use.

Another example is automatic configuration. This is where your HDMI-enabled TV is able to adjust itself to the appropriate format, say if the content switches unexpectedly from widescreen to standard 4:3. There is no need for you to scroll through menus to find and select the correct format, as your HDMI cable effectively does the hard work for you.

A huge number of different home entertainment devices use HDMI cables, providing you with the very best way to enjoy films, TV, music and gaming in your very own home. For example:

Games consoles

The best way to enjoy gaming on consoles such as the Xbox or PS3 is using HDMI cables, especially as many of the latest games consoles offer 3D gaming capability.

Laptops

If you want to display downloaded or streaming content from your laptop (or even your desktop computer) on a larger screen, you can simply use an HDMI cable to connect it to a widescreen TV or projector.

TVs

All the major manufacturers of LCD, Plasma, HD and 3D TVs (i.e. Sony, Samsung, Toshiba, Hitachi, LG and Philips) are likely to have included HDMI capability in their products. If you don’t have enough ports on the back of your TV, however, you can always use an HDMI switcher to add more HDMI inputs.

Digital cameras and camcorders

Want to share your holiday snaps, home videos or even business presentations on a large screen or projectors? All you need to do is choose an HDMI cable with a mini or micro connector, and use it to connect your camera or camcorder to the big screen.

After being online since autumn of 2006 cables.ie finally has being migrated to our new ecommerce platform and is being officially re-launched. We moved from our old but reliable XTC shopping cart system to Magento. This means online shoppers can avail of many of the new features this platform offers like advance account management, automatic notification and realtime payment processing and stock updates. At the same time we extended and updated our product offering for all sorts of cables and accessories and we will feature close to over 2000 different cables coming into 2012. Those are some of the reason why we are still the first choice for Irish consumers when it come to shopping online for computer cables or HDMI cables for examples. We would like the opportunity to wish our more than 2500 Irish customers and their families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

When you buy a new electronics device, such as a new TV or DVD-player, for example, you will often be asked by the sales assistant if you would like to buy an HDMI cable along with your purchase. For the sake of convenience, many people accept this recommendation and buy the HDMI cable.

However, you could be spending as much as ten times as much as you need to by buying your HDMI cables in this way. It is true, HDMI cables are essential to get your new home entertainment device up and running, but there is no need to spend a small fortune on them.

The best thing you can do is to buy your HDMI cables online, where there are much cheaper prices and better deals to be had. Ideally, you should order your HDMI cables before you buy your new device, so they are ready and waiting once you bring your purchase home. However, a lot of online HDMI cable sellers offer lightning fast delivery, so you will have your HDMI cable soon enough.

It might also be a good idea to wait until you have the device in your home before buying HDMI cables so you can check which ones you need to buy in the manufacturer’s instructions.

There have been several announcements in the last few months relating to the launch of brand new 3D TV channels, with Sky in particular taking the lead.

The latest news is that Sky is planning to team up with David Attenborough to create a 3D wildlife documentary called Galapagos 3D. This immersive and stunning viewing experience will only be available to those viewers who have a 3D-enabled TV, and who are subscribed to Sky’s 3D TV service.

Just as important as having a 3D-enabled TV is having the right HDMI cables on hand to connect everything up. You will need HDMI 1.4 cables, the latest version available, in order to fully enjoy the 3D experience.

If you don’t have Sky, you could still be enjoying 3D content through another 3D TV channel provider, such as Virgin Media, for example. The BBC also broadcasts a limited selection of 3D programmes, and it most recently trialled a 3D broadcast of its hit weekend show Strictly Come Dancing.

If you want to enjoy 3D TV, remember – you must have a 3D-enabled TV and the right HDMI cable in order to get started.

Not all connections you need to make in your home entertainment system are as straightforward as you’d like them to be, as there are awkward angles, tight spaces and other logistical problems to overcome. This can result in damage to your HDMI cables when you try to connect them, as well as unnecessary stress put on HDMI ports and sockets.

To overcome this problem, there are two options to consider. The first is an HDMI cable angle adapter, a small right-angle shaped device used in place of bending your HDMI cables by 90 degrees.

If you don’t have the space for an HDMI cable angle adapter, or you’d rather not splash out on yet another device or accessory, you could choose rotate and swivel HDMI cables instead.

These rotating HDMI cables come with a connector head that can be adjusted to fit any angle, no matter how awkward or tight. You may have to pay a tiny bit more for rotating HDMI cables than standard versions, but they can make life much easier and your home entertainment system much neater. What’s more, you can even extend the life of your cables and your devices by avoiding having to bend and twist the cables themselves.

Although HDMI cables are the accessories you buy in order to connect up your home entertainment system and get the best out of all of your devices, there are also accessories you can purchase for your HDMI cables themselves.

Let’s take a look at a couple of the options available:

HDMI cable angle adapters

If your devices have awkwardly angled HDMI ports or sockets, or there is limited space available between wall and device, you might need to bend or kink your HDMI cable in order to connect it. This can damage your HDMI cables over time. However, if you use a right angle HDMI cable adapter, this can protect both the HDMI cable and the socket on the device, without losing any signal quality.

Cable trunking

HDMI cables are great space-savers, as they carry both audio and video signals and some even have an Ethernet channel, so there is no need for all those extra wires and cables. However, you may still want to conceal your cables as much as possible, which is where cable trunking comes in. It is easy to install and hides all of your cables very neatly.

As well as there being different lengths and versions of HDMI cables currently available, there are also two different categories. You need to know the difference between the two before shopping for HDMI cables.

Category 1 HDMI cables

These are standard HDMI cables, which are tested to perform at a certain speed. Category 1 HDMI cables are tested at speeds of 2.25 Gb per second or 75 MHZ, which is the equivalent of a 720p or 1080i signal.

Category 2 HDMI cables

These cables are classified as high speed HDMI cables, which perform much faster than Category 1 cables. They have been tested to perform at speeds of 10.2 Gb per second or 340 MHz, which is the equivalent of a 1080p signal. They are able to support increased resolutions and colour depths.

Which HDMI cable category should I choose?

Whilst standard HDMI cables are fine for everyday use, those who are home entertainment fans or want a superior viewing experience should opt for Category 2 high speed HDMI cables. They cost ever so slightly more than Category 1 cables, but most users consider them to be worth the money.

HDMI 1.4 cables are the newest version of HDMI cable available, and the specification has been revised so that many more features and functions have been added.

One of these new features is the Ethernet Channel, which is included on most HDMI 1.4 cables. This enables you to enjoy a whole world of new possibilities when using this HDMI link to connect devices in your home entertainment system, including:

• Content distribution. This means that devices that are connected via the HDMI Ethernet Channel can exchange digital content. This means that content can be recorded, stored and played back, without the need for a separate Ethernet cable.

• Home entertainment networking. The Ethernet Channel in HDMI 1.4 cables is able to accommodate both current and future IP-based networking solutions for home electronics, to provide a single cable solution for connecting devices.

• Sharing an Internet connection. This enables your Internet-ready entertainment devices, from Blu-ray players to games consoles, can now share an Internet connection, without you needing to plug in separate Ethernet cables.

Essentially, an HDMI 1.4 cable with Ethernet is both a digital connection interface and an Ethernet cable, all in one handy package.

When you buy a new HDMI cable, it might also be a good idea to buy an HDMI cable angle adapter to go with your purchase.

Right angle HDMI adapters help prevent your HDMI cables from becoming bent, kinked and damaged when your try to connect them to devices with awkwardly angled connectors. They are also useful if you have a tight space between the back of a device and a wall or the back of a TV cabinet in which to fit and connect an HDMI cable.

Of course, HDMI cables are known for being very tough and hardy, but over time they can become damaged if they are bent and twisted too much. Using an HDMI angle adapter not only stops this from happening, but it can also help to extend the lives of your devices too, as much less stress is put on the HDMI port or socket.

Some people worry that they may experience signal loss by using an HDMI cable adapter, but this really isn’t the case. If you buy a quality HDMI cable and adapter, and choose gold-plated varieties of both, there should be no problem at all with signal strength or quality.

As soon as you start researching the different types of HDMI cables and their functions, you are likely to be overwhelmed with huge amounts of technical information. This can be difficult to understand, so let’s take a look at the different versions of HDMI cables in brief. This should help you choose the right HDMI cable for you.

Version 1.0

This is the first version of HDMI cables ever released. It allows the transfer of both standard and HD video, at a maximum speed of 4.9 Gb per second.

Version 1.1

This is similar to version 1.0, but it offers support for DVD Audio.

Version 1.2/1.2a

These versions include added support for Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) and the One Bit Audio format.

Version 1.3

HDMI 1.3 cables offer improved colour depths, such as support for Deep Colour, along with Lip Sync, and increased bandwidth (10.2 Gb per second). This version also has support for high-definition DTS-HS Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD.

Version 1.4

The newest version available, HDMI 1.4 cables offer support for increased resolutions and 3D TV signals, as well as an Audio Return Channel (ARC) and an Ethernet channel.

HDMI cables allow you to connect different home entertainment devices together, so that you can use them in different ways and unlock their full potential. All you need is an HDMI port on each device you want to connect, along with the right HDMI cable.

If you have a laptop which has an HDMI port, you will be able to connect it to your TV or another display in order to:

• Stream video content from the internet
• Play films, TV programmes and other video content
• Play your home videos on a larger screen
• Put on a photo slideshow for all your friends and family
• Prepare and display a professional business presentation

If your laptop does not have an HDMI port, and some don’t, there are ways around the problem. You can use a Mini DisplayPort-to-HDMI adapter, for example. This has a connector which fits into your laptop’s Mini DisplayPort at one end, whilst the other is an HDMI connector which will fit in your TV’s HDMI port.

So, if you are tired of crowding around a tiny screen to view films, TV shows and photos with friends and family, get yourself an HDMI cable and you could enjoy all of this content on a large, high resolution screen.

One of the best things about giving gifts to your friends and loved ones is watching them enjoy their presents right away. This is why it is important to include everything they need to use their gift on Christmas Day itself. So, if you are buying a home entertainment gift, this means wrapping up an HDMI cable or two along with everything else.

So, if you are planning to buy a new HD or 3D LCD TV for your loved one, you will need to include an appropriate HDMI cable (the ideal choices are HDMI 1.4 cables) so that everything can be connected up and enjoyed right away.

If you forget it and the recipient doesn’t have an appropriate cable to hand, they will have to wait until after Christmas, when the shops are open again. This could take several days, which will be very disappointing for the recipient of your gift.

The same goes for any home electronics device you give as a gift this Christmas, from DVD players and Blu-ray players to games consoles and sound systems. You may even want to include an HDMI cable if you are planning to buy smartphones, laptops or tablet computers for a friend or loved one this year.

Some people who are unwilling to make the switch from analogue connectors to digital HDMI cables are able to carry on enjoying their home entertainment systems as normal. However, this becomes more difficult the more new devices and components you add, as nearly all newly released home electronics devices depend heavily on HDMI cables.

Amongst the many devices which use HDMI cables, the main ones are:

• HD TV sets
• 3D TV sets
• DVD players
• Blu-ray players
• HD digital cameras and camcorders
• 3D and HD projectors
• Games consoles such as PS3 and Xbox 360
• Tablet computers
• Smartphones
• Mp3 players
• Laptops and some desktop pcs

To put it simply, you will make life much easier for yourself by using HDMI cables, as they are compatible with most of the devices you use in your home entertainment system every day.

There is no reason not to use HDMI cables and abandon outdated analogue connectors, however familiar you may be with the latter. HDMI cables offer countless benefits, including faster, more secure connections, support for the latest technologies and the need to use fewer cables as they incorporate sound and video in just one cable.

If you’ve made the leap to 3D recently by purchasing a 3D-enabled TV set, you may need to upgrade your HDMI cables.

The first thing to do to found out whether you need to buy a new HDMI cable is to test out your existing one with your new 3D TV. If it works, you may think you don’t need to upgrade, but this isn’t always the case.

Many people who buy 3D TVs continue using the same HDMI cables as they used with their standard digital and HD TV sets. However, these people could be missing out the superior quality of 3D images their new device is capable of producing, simply because they are using the wrong cable.

By buying a better quality, faster HDMI cable, or a newer version, you can be assured that you are getting the very best your 3D TV has to offer. These devices can also be very expensive, so you want to ensure you are getting the best value for money and making the best use of the technology available.

High-speed HDMI 1.4 cables with Ethernet are virtually made for 3D enabled TVs and other devices, so these may be the best product to buy.

Unless you have experience shopping for electronics accessories, you are likely to only know the bare minimum about them. This can make picking out the right one for you a bit tricky, especially as there is so much choice available.

One of the most frequently asked questions about electronics devices and accessories relates to HDMI cables, and it is – why are there so many different versions of HDMI cables available?

The answer to this is that HDMI specifications are constantly evolving, similarly to the way other technologies evolve. In the past, there were only basic analogue TVs and VHS players, then along came DVD players, Blu-ray players, HD LCD TVs and other enhanced technologies. We are now in an age where many people have 3D enabled TVs and games consoles in their homes.

In order to keep up with all of these changes, HDMI specifications are revised every few years. New features and support capabilities are added with each new version. This means that the latest cables, HDMI 1.4 cables, are the most compatible with the latest technologies used in home electronics, as they have been developed with modern changes in mind.

When shopping for HDMI cables, you may be surprised at the range of different cables there are available. Some people mistakenly believe that all HDMI cables are the same, but this isn’t the case at all.

One of the options you may come across when buying new HDMI cables are gold-plated cables, which may be a little more expensive than the standard variety. But are these cables worth the extra money? How do they work, and what benefits do they offer to the user?

The main reason gold-plated HDMI cables exist is to provide optimum signal clarity, working alongside a range of other features, from oxygen free copper cables, solver soldering and gas-injected dielectrics, to ensure that the signal is as strong, clear and uninterrupted as possible.

What this means for the viewer is that there is never any loss of signal or any interruption to your viewing or gaming experience, and it also looks quite good too.

You can even find high-speed gold plated HDMI cables, or gold-plated HDMI cables with Ethernet too, if you want to boost the quality and speed of your home entertainment system even further.

There is no standard length in place for HDMI cables, but some are known to lose signal strength and drop a few points in performance when they are very long in length.

This is why, if you need to run your HDMI cables between rooms, across huge spaces or even use them for public displays and events, you will need to find out how to do it without losing any signal strength or quality.

The first thing to do is to look for HDMI cables that are specially designed for longer runs. These are likely to contain signal boosters and other devices to maintain the quality and strength of the signal.

If you can’t find any HDMI cables long enough for your needs, or you are still experiencing loss of signal, there are a few more options you can try. Ask an HDMI cable expert about signal extenders, signal equalisers, signal restorers and other types of signal boosters. These may be contained inside the cable itself, or they may come as separate devices.

One of the best options for boosting signal across longer cable runs are fibre optic HDMI cables, although you should also know that they are one of the most expensive options available.

Amongst the many functions and features HDMI cables offer, there is something known as HDCP. This is commonly found in most HDMI cables, but not everyone understands what it is or why it is important, so let’s take a look.

HDCP stands for High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection, and it is a form of digital copy protection. The system is designed to stop digital audio and video content from being copied as it travels through HDMI cables and other connections.

How does HDCP work?

There are three parts to an HDCP protected system – the HDCP transmitter (e.g. the DVD player), the digital interface (e.g. the HDMI cable) and the HDCP receiver (e.g. the TV). The content is encrypted at the transmitter and this signal is passed through the HDMI cable to the receiver. Unless both transmitter and receiver comply with HDCP standard, the video will not be displayed properly.

What this means for you is that any content that has been HDCP encrypted will not be able to be played on devices that either do not support HDCP or that have been modified so as to copy HDCP content.

Anyone who has ever used an HDMI cable before will know that this digital technology is far superior to any of the analogue cables that came before it, and it is also more suitable for emerging technologies in the home entertainment market.

However, some people insist on hanging on to their old analogue cables, such as SCART and S-Video for example, despite the fact that they are fast becoming outdated. If you need persuading to make the switch to HDMI cables, take a look at the following three reasons why HDMI is the way forward:

1. Ease of use. HDMI cables are able to carry both audio and video signals, so there is no need to have two separate cables. This can halve the number of cables you need to connect in your home entertainment system.

2. Quality. HDMI is a digital interface, so it does not need to convert signals to digital like analogue cables do. This means there is no loss of signal and quality is exemplary, especially in high resolution displays where images are sharper and brighter.

3. Intelligence. HDMI cables are able to support two-way communication between devices, so that they can automatically deliver the right formats without the viewer having to lift a finger.

Contrary to what some people believe, there is not just one type of HDMI cable. You can find different versions and lengths of HDMI cable, as well as those which offer different functions, speeds and capabilities.

One of the most common confusions when shopping for HDMI cables is the difference between standard cables and those that are billed as ‘high speed’ HDMI cables. The question most people want answered is whether it is worth shelling out a little more money for the latter variety, or whether standard HDMI cables will suffice.

Let’s look at standard HDMI cables first. These have been tested to perform at a certain speed, which is 2.25Gbps or the equivalent of a 720p/1080i signal.

However, high speed HDMI cables have been tested to ensure they perform at much greater speeds. They have a bandwidth of 10.2Gbps, which means they can handle 1080p signals, as well as increased colour depths and higher resolution displays.

High speed HDMI cables generally cost a little more than standard varieties, but they can perform so many more tasks and at greater speeds. This is why it may be worth spending a bit more money on high speed cables to benefit from the superior performance they offer.

Picking out exactly the right HDMI cable for your needs isn’t always as easy as you may think. You have to know a bit about what you’re looking for before you start shopping. The following few pointers should help you out, however.

1. HDMI cable version
There are several versions of HDMI cable available, as the HDMI standards have been revised many times over the years. Each version has additional and more advanced features, so if you’re buying the latest 3D TV or another piece of advanced technology, you need to buy the latest version of HDMI cable. This is the HDMI 1.4 cable.

2. HDMI cable length.
Some cables will lose signal strength over longer lengths, whilst others have special boosters to keep the signal strong even when running HDMI cables through several rooms of the house.

3. Price
You don’t need to spend a fortune to get good quality HDMI cables, but it isn’t always advisable to opt for the cheapest cables you can find. Set yourself a budget in the mid-range and try to find the best quality cables you can for this price.

One of the main benefits of HDMI cables is that they carry both audio and video signals, which means that you only need one cable whereas in the past you would have needed at least two. This can completely de-clutter your home entertainment system, as well as making it quicker and easier to connect everything up.

However, there are situations where you may need to connect more than one HDMI-enabled device to your TV. Most new TVs have three or four HDMI ports for you to use for connecting devices, but some older or lower budget TVs may not. Even if you have four HDMI cable ports available, you may have more devices that you need to connect to your TV. So what do you do?

The answer could be an HDMI splitter, which gives you access to many more HDMI ports in just one compact set-top box. You simply use one of the HDMI ports on your TV to connect up your HDMI splitter, then plug in the HDMI cables from all your other devices into the splitter. It’s as simple as that, and it allows you to expand your home entertainment system as much as you like.

It’s good news for both 3D TV fans and HDMI cable users this month as Nvidia has announced the launch of its brand new 3D Vision 2 Wireless Glasses, which will allow you to enjoy mind-blowing stereoscopic 3D TV, gaming and movies from the comfort of your very own living room.

This innovative product has an increased lens size compared to other similar 3D glasses, and it has a clever wraparound design so that the viewer suffers no peripheral interruptions to their 3D viewing experience.

The glasses also work well with Nvidia’s own LightBoost 3D technology, which is a layer of film across TV screens and monitors which delivers twice the brightness by counteracting any dimness. This makes 3D images appear more colourful and much clearer, but only on Nvidia’s own TVs and other devices.

If you are lucky enough to own a 3D TV, you will only be able to use it to its full potential if you have HDMI 1.4 cables to connect everything up with. You can then watch 3D films and TV programmes, and enjoy 3D games, using your brand new pair of Nvidia 3D Vision 2 Wireless Glasses.

When you shop for new electronics devices for your home entertainment system, you need to ensure that you also get the right HDMI cables to enable you to connect everything up. However, there are also a few HDMI-related questions you need to ask about the device itself, before you buy it.

How many HDMI ports does it have?

Some devices, such as HD TV sets, have three or four HDMI ports, whilst others only have one or two. You need to work out how many you think you will need, depending on how many devices you want to connect together. If there aren’t enough ports but you have set your heart on a particular device, you can buy an HDMI splitter which will give you access to many additional HDMI cable ports.

What version of HDMI cable is it compatible with?

Rather than focusing on the version number, you should look at what features the device has and see which cables offer compatible support. So, if you’re buying a 3D TV, you will need an HDMI 1.4 cable as it is the only version with support for 3D technology.

HDMI cables offer users many fantastic features and functions to use and enjoy, but none is quite so useful as CEC. This stands for Consumer Electronics Control, and it allows you to control and switch between all HDMI-connected devices in your home entertainment system using just the one remote.

The following are the main CEC which are carried through HDMI cables:

• System standby – this switches all HDMI-connected devices to standby status
• Timer programming – this allows one device, such as your TV set, to control the timer programming of another, such as your DVD or Blu-ray player
• One touch record – this is quite self-explanatory, as it means that the device starts recording immediately
• Device menu control – this is where one device can access and use the menus of another
• Preset transfer – this command transfers the tuner channel setup to another TV monitor
• System information – this allows all components for bus addresses and configuration to be checked
• Routing control – this controls the switching of signal sources
• Remote control pass through – this relates to the pass through of remote control commands

Unless you are something of a technical whizz, there are likely to be many things about your home entertainment system that you don’t fully understand. Take your HDMI cables and how they work, for example. These brilliant devices have many useful features and functions to make life easier for home entertainment fans, but not everyone knows how to make the best of them.

One of these features is something known as CEC, which stands for Consumer Electronics Control. This is a technology that is included in many HDMI cables, and all versions from HDMI 1.0 to HDMI 1.4 cables should have it.

The CEC technology is designed to carry commands from your remote between devices in your home entertainment system that are connected to each other via HDMI cables. The idea is to allow you to switch between devices using just the one remote, rather than having to search around for a different remote for each device each time you want to switch.

CEC often has different names depending on the manufacturer of the device. In Samsung products it is called Anynet+, in Sharp devices it is known as Aquos Link, whilst for Sony the name is BRAVIA Link or BRAVIA Sync.

The reason that HDMI has taken the electronics world by storm and replaced other cables is that are able to carry both audio and video signals in one cable, so there is no need for separate cables.

Here are few other facts you should know about HDMI cables:

• There have been several versions of HDMI cables released over the years. Each has been revised in order to launch a new, more advanced cable. So, for example, the HDMI 1.0 cable released in 2002 was very basic, whilst the latest versions, HDMI 1.4 cables, have support for even advanced technologies such as 3D TV.

• The standard HDMI cable has 19 pins. However, new connector types have been introduced for HDMI cables to allow them to be used on the move, or even in vehicles. Whilst the mini-connector has the same 19-pin configuration but in a smaller size, the Type B connector, for use with high-resolution future displays, has 29 pins.

HDMI cable owners in Korea will soon be able to enjoy watching their favourite 3D films on the new passive 3D projector launched by LG Electronics.

The projector boasts some pretty impressive features. As well as a 200-inch wide screen, the Model CF3DAT 3D projector will use 2D to 3D conversion technology to display full HD 3D images. It will be capable of 1920 x 1080 resolution and it has a brightness of 1250 ANSI lumens, which LG claims is around six times brighter than other projectors.

The president and CEO of the LG Home Entertainment Company, Havis Kwon, described how the company hopes the new 3D projector will be used:

“The CF3DAT is the latest product to join the LG CINEMA 3D family and it’s a serious workhorse,”

“The CF3DAT is at home in a living room or auditorium as it has the muscle to project a five meter picture in bright, movie theatre glory.”

3D film fans in the UK will have to wait until at least the first half of 2012 to get a glimpse of LG’s new 3D projector, but there is no reason not to buy HDMI cables and 3D films in advance.

As home electronic devices have proliferated, so has the problem of unsightly and jumbled cords. The more we developed the ability to connect those devices together, the more cords increased still more. Besides being a pain to set up, those cords are messy, collect dirt and constitute a possible fire hazard in some cases. Recently manufacturers have worked to reduce that number, but HDMI cords can still ruin the aesthetic of a flat screen TV hanging on a wall, and limit where you can place your electronics.

One solution has been offered by, as Amimon, an Israeli-based fabless semi-conductor company who invented the Wireless High Definition Interface, which allows a 1080p video signal to transmit up to 100 feet, through walls, all over your home. That is an uncompressed digital signal equivalent to what you would get through a HDMI cable. The chipset for WHDI comes in high-end plasma and LCD TVs, projectors, DVD players, computers, A/V receivers, game consoles, cameras and multiple accessories.

Complete wireless is sort of the holy grail of home entertainment. Every A/V wire in your entire house can go out the window with the ability to share HD content without regard for proximity or location. What’s more, all those devices will be automatically connected to all of the others, in a multi-point-to-multi-point effortless network. Its applications extend beyond the home to business and commercial uses too, but for you, it means unprecedented connectivity.

Although starting out expensive, this technology is getting increasingly cost effective. You do not buy directly from Amimon, but electronics companies purchase and include their chips to increase the salability and value of their products. Soon, it will cost you very little more to purchase a WHDI compatible TV than a regular one. As time goes on you will see wireless becoming the preferred mode for HD viewing, eventually rendering cords obsolete. Currently, there are two set-ups available, allowing you to either have it embedded on one end with an external receiver box on the other, or to transmit between two embedded devices.

With the same ease that you can turn on a laptop or smartphone and start surfing the internet using a Wi-Fi connection, you will be able, within your home, to turn on a TV or similar device and receive HD video and audio. That is a tremendous increase in convenience. Probably someday, our children will look back and marvel at how we put up with A/V cords the same way that we marvel that our parents put up with corded telephones. Mobility, flexibility, connectivity and ease of access are the goals of modern technologies, and wireless HD certainly provides all of them. It is the simplest way to network CEs throughout your house, without fuss and without constraints. Its fast, with less than a millisecond lag time, strong enough to reach over your entire house, and provides the pristine visual and audio quality you’ve come to demand. Moreover, that flat screen TV has never looked less like an electronic and more like a work of art.

The number of vehicles incorporating automotive video systems has been increasing steadily and it’s only logical for car manufacturers to want to incorporate HDMI connectivity into vehicles. HDMI 1.4 provides the solution to these demands with the automotive connection system which was designed specifically to cater to the demands of watching HD video on a dashboard display or seatbacks while driving.

What is the Automotive Connection System?

To understand the automotive connection system, you need to know its key elements which are:

• A special Automotive HDMI cable that was specifically designed for the distribution and transmission of HD data or signals in automobile embedded systems. The components of this specification include the cables, the relays and the latching connectors and these are all involved in the internal transmission and distribution of HD video in an automobile. The automotive connection system is specially designed to withstand the automobile harsh environment which is subject to vibration, heat and noise disturbances.
• A standard automotive HDMI cable that was specifically designed to support the connection of digital still cameras, portable media players, phones, camcorders, Blu-ray players and other external devices to HDMI-enhanced systems in a vehicle. This connector is also referred to as the Type E connector.

This means that if you own an HDMI-equipped vehicle, you can play high definition videos from your portable external digital devices while driving.

What is the Difference between the Standard Automotive Cable and Other Standard HDMI Cables?

Standard HDMI cables can only be used with HDMI-equipped devices in the home. Due to the unique stress factors associated with the transmission and distribution of HDMI content in an automobile, Standard HDMI cables will not suffice for connection. On the other hand, the Standard automotive cable has been designed with special components to handle the demands of a HDMI connection system in an automobile. The standard automotive cable supports clear and strong signal transmission especially, that necessary for automotive video systems.

In essence, connecting your external digital devices to your vehicle’s HDMI video system, you’ll need the automotive HDMI cable with micro, mini or standard connectors determined by the application in use.

Limitations of the Automotive Connection System

At the moment, the video resolution supported by an in-vehicle automotive connection system is limited to 1080i and 720p and the cable is yet to support Ethernet.

Enjoying Automotive Connection System

In order to ensure that you can access the features of the automotive connection system in your car, you need to take note of the following points:

• Ensure that your vehicle is enabled to support HDMI video systems. Also, the content sources such as digital still cameras, camcorders, portable media players and Blu-ray disc players must be HDMI-enabled.
• Use the correct cable. Since signal transmission and distribution in an automobile is subjected to more stress than that experience in home entertainment devices, you need the standard automotive HDMI cable.

Sorting your way through the huge number of video cables available these days to find the one you need can be a bit of a nightmare, and one of the most common problems people have is not knowing the differences between DVI and HDMI cables.

This confusion is understandable, as both DVI cables and HDMI cables are digital video connector interfaces. They offer similar features, but HDMI is known to deliver far superior quality and performance.

This is because, generally speaking, HDMI cables are DVI cables with the following features added:

• Up to 8 audio channels, included in the same cable
• A much smaller connector
• Consumer Electronics Control (CEC)
• Support for advanced colour spaces, so that images can be rendered more realistically and impressively
• CEA-861B InfoFrames
• Support for full High Definition (HD) content, including HD Blu-rays

If in doubt as to which cable to go for, you should always choose HDMI cables. This is because you can use these more advanced cables for all your home entertainment needs, and for any other components and technologies you may bring in the future.

When you upgrade your existing cables to HDMI cables, you will notice a huge difference in the way you are able to use and enjoy your home entertainment system. Let’s look at a few of the ways HDMI cables can change your life:

1. Fewer cables
One HDMI cable can replace as many as 11 analogue cables. Each is able to carry both audio and digital video signals, so there is no need for all the extra cables. Therefore, your home entertainment system can be much simpler to set up and use, and it also looks less cluttered.

2. Higher quality video
The moment you switch on your new HDMI-connected system, you will notice an immediate improvement in video quality. This is because with HDMI cables, there is no need to compress or convert the signal from digital to analogue and back again.

3. Better communication between devices
HDMI cables enable two-way communication between different devices and components. This means that they are able to send information to each other about the best formats to use for content, so that you don’t ever have to adjust your settings.

If you want to get the very best performance and gaming quality out of your PS3 console, the best thing to do is to invest in a High Definition or even a 3D-enabled TV screen. This will enable you to enjoy fantastic picture and graphics quality, as well as giving you access to HD and 3D games.

In order to connect your PS3 to an HD TV, you will need an HDMI cable. This is the only digital cable that is able to offer exceptional support for high resolution TV viewing and gaming, but it is a relatively inexpensive cable to buy.

Once you have your HD TV, your PS3 and your HDMI cable, you are ready to connect everything up and start gaming. Insert one end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI port on your PS3, and the other into the HDMI port on the back of your TV set. Refer to the Quick Reference manual supplied with your PS3 for further setup instructions.

If you plan to connect your PS3 to a 3D-enabled TV, you will need a specific type of HDMI cable. Only the very newest versions, HDMI 1.4 cables, are able to support 3D technology, so these are the ones you should buy.

HDMI cables come with many different connector types, as well in a number of different versions and a range of lengths. This is to ensure that they can be used for virtually scenario, so that you are never inconvenienced and can always enjoy the superior quality and performance HDMI is known for.

If you plan to run your cables for greater than standard distances, you will need to buy long HDMI cables. You can find HDMI cables that are up to 25 metres in length, but the question most people ask is whether these long cables are able to offer the same quality?

Generally speaking, most standard HDMI cables can offer the same signal quality up to a length of 10 metres, after which point a repeater may need to be used. However, there are some specialist products which are specially designed to compensate for weaker signals, so that longer cables can be used.

If you need an HDMI cable that is longer than 10 metres, look for those which offer super speeds, signal boosters, Mylar shielding, repeaters and amplifiers, as these are all features which will increase the signal strength in the cable.

When you unpack your brand new PS3 out of its box for the very first time, all you want to do is connect it up and start playing. However, if you don’t have the right connector cables, you either won’t be able to enjoy your PS3 right away or you’ll be missing out on a world of High Definition quality.

PS3 consoles are designed so that they are compatible with a range of different connector cables, including a few older style analogue cables. These cables will allow you to play on your PS3, but they won’t give you the immersive and genuinely enhanced gaming experience that HDMI cable connection offers.

There is no need to spend a fortune on PS3 HDMI cables, however, and you definitely shouldn’t be talked onto shelling out for expensive ones when you purchase your PS3 in the shop. All you need to do is to browse online for PS3 HDMI cables, comparing prices to try and find the best deal.

There are more expensive PS3 HDMI cables to choose from, such as brand name or gold-plated cables, but a basic one will usually deliver just as well in performance as these less budget-friendly varieties.

The latest development in the cutting edge world of home entertainment, head-mounted 3D display glasses, have spawned a new product.

The Moverio, recently unveiled by Epsom, looks like a high-tech pair of glasses and packs a big tech punch with 0.52 inch screen for each eye. Each display lens is transparent too so you are aware of your environment; great to sync in with the coming wave of augmented reality software on the horizon.

These clever glasses, hooked up by HDMI cable to a portable film of game player, give the impression that you’re actually watching a massive 320-inch screen even though you can fit them in your bag.

The Moverio connects using an HDMI cable to a 1GB capacity, Wi-Fi enabled device which you can use on the move for up to 6 hours. This addition to the world of head-mounted display devices sounds like it would be great for taking the edge off for long boring train journeys.

Released in Japan on 25th of  November, the Moverio BT-100 won’t reach our shores for a while, but you should be able to pick up a set from Japan for around 320 quit, plus the usual import and shipping fees.

There is exciting news for fans of 3D technology this month, as Panasonic has launched its smallest 3D camera to date.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 allows you to switch between 2D and 3D when taking pictures virtually anywhere, then play them back in glorious full colour quality via an HDMI cable and an appropriate screen or display.

This means you can capture stunning HD videos, take all of your holiday snaps in state-of-the-art 3D, and enjoy the ultimate 3D photo or video slideshow when you get home. All you need is the right HDMI cable and a 3D TV, monitor or projector screen, and you can show off your professional quality images to everyone you know.

Additional features of the Lumix DMC-3D1 include anti-blur technology, which is very useful for taking action shots or for photographers who have very shaky hands, and red eye removal software.

The camera also has twin lenses, a self timer and a battery powerful enough for you to take up to 200 shots without needing to recharge. You get all of this, and in a lightweight, compact package that weighs less than 195g.

Many people have a lot of questions about HDMI cables and how they work, but the answers aren’t always easy to find or easy to understand. Such curiosity about HDMI cables is understandable, as it is important to know everything you can about an advanced piece of technology before spending your hard-earned money on it.

In the first part of this guide, we briefly answered a couple of the most commonly asked questions about HDMI cables. Let’s take a look at a couple more…

What video types do HDMI cables support?

HDMI cables have the capacity to support everything from standard definition (PAL or NTSC, for example) to high definition video formats such as 720p, 1080i and 1080p. These cables can even support 480p and other enhanced definition formats.

What is the latest version of HDMI cables, and should I buy it?

The latest specification is HDMI 1.4 cables, which were launched in May 2009. These are the best cables to get, as they offer many additional features such as the Ethernet channel, support for 3D, the Audio Return Channel (ARC) and support for higher resolution displays.

Unless you are a huge technology or home electronics buff, you are likely to have many questions about HDMI cables. Of course, all you really need to know is that they are the ideal digital alternative to outdated analogue connector systems, but it can still be useful to know more about HDMI cables.

The following are a few of the most commonly asked questions about HDMI cables and a brief answer to each.

What are the benefits of HDMI cables for consumers?

There are three main benefits of HDMI cables for consumers, which include:

1. HDMI cables offer superior digital video and audio quality, all in the same cable.
2. HDMI-enabled devices can be controlled using a single remote control
3. HDMI cables open the doors to High Definition content in a way that analogue cables cannot.

Won’t HDMI cables become outdated soon, just like analogue cables?

One of the most persuasive arguments for replacing analogue cables with HDMI cables is that the former is outdated. There is no need to worry about this happening with HDMI cables, however, as they currently only use half of their available bandwidth. This means they can handle anything future technological advancements can throw at them, so they’ll be around for many, many years to come.

See part 2 of this guide for more commonly asked questions and answers about HDMI cables.

There are hundreds and possibly even thousands of products out there that can be connected to your home entertainment system using HDMI cables. All you have to do is to take your pick, design your own dream home entertainment system, then make sure you have everything you need to enjoy the very latest technology.

The Sky+ HD box is one such innovation, which many TV and film fans swear by these days. This amazing device allows you to view the widest range of High Definition TV channels in the UK, as well as being able to store up to 60 hours of hand-picked HD entertainment. You can record entire series of your favourite shows, and you can even do this using your mobile phone.

It isn’t enough to simply buy the Sky+ HD package from Sky, however. You will need a Sky+ HD box (which the company will supply you with) as well as an HD ready TV and importantly, HDMI cables to connect everything up. HDMI cables were made for this kind of advanced digital technology, so they really are the best cabling choice you can make.

HDMI cables are designed to be useful with a huge range of different devices, and in a number of different situations.

It used to be the case that HDMI connectivity could only be enjoyed in the home, but there are now HDMI cables and accessories that are designed for use on the move. This means you can enjoy the benefits of HDMI whilst travelling, on holiday or even in the boardroom.

One of the features which make HDMI cables so flexible and versatile is the many connector types they come with. You can find standard HDMI cable connectors for use in home entertainment systems and even automotive connector systems for use in vehicles. However, by far the most handy and portable are mini and micro connectors.

HDMI Micro and mini connectors can be used to connect smart phones, tablet computers and mp3 players to laptops, PCs, TVs and displays so that you can stream and share content from one to the other. You can also use them to display images and videos from digital cameras and camcorders on larger screens, to create your own photo or video slideshows and presentations.

HDMI cables are sure to be flying off the shelves this Christmas, with sales of gadgets like Wii, Xbox 360, PS3 and BluRay players set to defy the recession, HDMI cables will be in big demand. And with good reason. With HDMI cables, high definition gaming and TV becomes the standard in your home and will exponentially increase your appreciation of your toys and gizmos during the festive season.

HDMI cables transform party games like Wii Sports 2 in to eye popping visual experiences that will enchant the whole family. Christmas movies like It’s a Wonderful Life and Polar Express look stunning in HD too and provided you are using HDMI cables you can enjoy crystal clear pictures from your BluRays, Sky HD or Virgin Media content.

So while Christmas shoppers are scrabbling for their HDMI cables in the shops, it is worth remembering that the best bargains for HDMI cables are sure to be found online from HDMI cables websites. They can deliver your HDMI cables the next day and at factory direct prices.

The amazing upgrade to your technology that HDMI cables provides mean that it really is a gift that keeps on giving.

The world of home entertainment is changing all the time, and it is moving faster than most other technologies can cope with. This is the same for analogue connector cables, which are simply unable to keep up with changes and advances in home entertainment technology.

The unique thing about HDMI, a new digital way to connect home entertainment devices, is that it is constantly being revised to incorporate support for a range of new technologies. This allows it to keep up with technological improvements better than other cables.

With each revision, new features are added. With the latest version, HDMI 1.4 cables, the newest addition is the Ethernet channel.

How does it work?

The Ethernet channel on HDMI 1.4 cables is designed to allow devices to send and receive data between each other. This data transfer is able to happen with the help of your Broadband connection, so it happens at lightning speed.

As your devices are able to share your internet connection, there is no need to wait around for transfers to take place, nor do you need to connect any additional cables to share data between devices.

Too many people these days are clinging onto old, outdated forms of technology in their homes, simply because they don’t what else is out there. But by doing so, these people are missing out on an exciting new world of home entertainment and gaming.

Take the example of HDMI cables, which have pretty much replaced traditional analogue connectors such as SCART leads and S-Video cables. The reason they have done so is because they are digital connectors capable of supporting a whole range of different devices and technologies, whilst their analogue predecessors simply can’t keep up.

HDMI connectivity is now feature in millions of electronics products worldwide, including DVD and Blu-ray players, HD and 3D TVs, monitors and projectors, digital cameras and camcorders, games consoles and even smartphones. As long as you have the right HDMI cable and a port to connect it with, the way you use your gadgets and electronic devices will change completely. The possibilities are endless.

So, don’t hang on to your old cables – it’s time to make the leap to HDMI cables and start enjoying all that modern technology has to offer.

Anyone who is a fan of 3D technology will be excited to learn that ViewSonic has launched a brand new 23 inch LED 3D monitor onto the market.

The visual display, computing products and communications company has produced a new 3D monitor which has more impressive features than many others of its kind in the market right now. It includes Tri-Def 2D to 3D gaming conversion, as well as 1920 x 1080 picture resolution. Viewers can also enjoy a dynamic contrast ration of 200,000,000:1 and a super fast response time of 2ms.

The ViewSonic V3D231 monitor also comes with a pair of clip-on 3D lenses, plus a pair of polarised glasses, all included in its very reasonable price.

The monitor has a few different points, including DVI-D, VGA and HDMI 1.4. Provided you use HDMI 1.4 cables, which are generally considered to be the best way to link up advanced home entertainment systems, you will be able to connect the ViewSonic V3D231 to a range of different devices and components. These include Blu-ray 3D players and PS3s, and the monitor is also compatible with Sky 3D.

Whether you are a seasoned gamer or are new to the wonderful world of gaming, there is one accessory you simply can’t be without – HDMI cables.

HDMI cables allow you to enjoy the latest innovations in gaming, simply because older, more traditional analogue cables cannot support the technology. If you have a PS3, Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii or any other of the latest games consoles, you need to be able to connect them using an interface that supports them.

Gaming is an immersive experience, and the best games are those that are rich in detail as well as in plot and interactivity. This is why people choose to play them on HD TV screens and other displays, whilst others are going a step further by enjoying 3D gaming.

However, it is no use buying 3D games to play on a 3D enabled TV screen if the connecting cables you are using don’t support 3D technology. This is why you need the latest specification, HDMI 1.4 cables, in order to enjoy High Definition 3D gaming.

Your HDMI 1.4 cable also has space for future technologies, so it won’t need replacing for many years, and you can still keep up with the newest and most exciting advances in gaming.

Technology can be a tricky business, leaving most of us unable to use all of the features and functions on our home entertainment devices simply because we don’t know how.

One of the most common problems is how to connect your laptop computer to your TV in order to play or stream video content. We know it can be done, but how?

The first thing you need to do is take a look at your laptop. Try to identify what connector ports it has, looking out for both DVI and HDMI connectors. Older laptops may be more likely to have RCA or S-Video ports, making it more difficult for you to connect it to your TV.

Now take a look at your TV, which will almost certainly have a port for an HDMI cable. Depending on what ports your laptop has, you will need the following cable configurations:

• If your TV has HDMI but your laptop only has DVI – you will need a DVI-to-HDMI cable, plus RCA analogue stereo cables for the sound.

• If both TV and laptop are HDMI enabled, all you need is one HDMI cable for both sound and video. This is by far the simplest and best arrangement.

Due to the huge amount of choice available nowadays when it comes to home entertainment technology, some of us are finding that are existing set-ups simply aren’t up to the task.

If you have a number of devices that need plugging into the mains, but don’t have enough plug sockets available, you can now use a multi-socket extension cable. To solve a similar problem, the makers of HDMI products have now come out with something known as an HDMI splitter.

An HDMI splitter is designed to give you access to many more HDMI cable ports, so that you can connect and enjoy as many different HDMI-enabled devices as you like. Most TVs, AV receivers and other devices have up to two or three ports, but some have only one.

If you need to connect more devices than the number of ports you have available, use an HDMI splitter. These compact boxes have a number of extra HDMI ports, so you can use your HDMI cables to connect everything up easily. What’s more, HDMI splitters also allow you to control all connected devices using just one remote. This makes switching between devices much, much easier.

Electronic devices can be a great gift idea, especially if the recipient is a fan of home entertainment or is a technology buff.

Many people are planning to buy their friends, family members and loved ones a home electronics gift this Christmas, with the most popular choices being smartphones, HD TVs, games consoles, laptops and mp3 players.

If you do decide to buy someone you know a gift like this for Christmas, it is very important that you also remember to get hold of all the accessories they will need to start enjoying their gift right away. There is nothing more annoying on Christmas Day than finding out that you will need to wait a few days (until the shops open) to start watching your new TV or playing games on your new games console.

This is why you should make HDMI cables and other accessories as much of a priority as the choosing of the gift itself. Make sure you buy a compatible specification of HDMI cable, and include it as part of your gift, to ensure the recipient has a fantastic experience on Christmas Day.

Anyone who has a home entertainment system and an interest in consumer electronics will be well aware that new technologies in this field are being worked on all the time.

However, there is always the danger that new technology could render other devices and electronics accessories obsolete. This has already happened with analogue cables, traditionally used to connect TVs and other displays with sound systems, VHS players and other components. These cables cannot be used with some of the new digital products, such as some HD LCD TV models, for example.

HDMI cables have now taken over this market, but not all HDMI cables are suitable for some of the latest home entertainment releases. Two examples of this are 3D and 4K, which are only supported by the most recently introduced connection interface, HDMI 1.4 cables.

4K is an exceptionally high resolution for digital film, as well as computer graphics. You used to only be able to find 4K (so called because its horizontal resolution is roughly 4,000 pixels) in cinemas, but an increasing number of home entertainment devices now feature it. If you want a 4K device in your home, you will need an HDMI 1.4 cable.

The space available for a home entertainment system will be different in every home, with some people having less space and more awkward connections to make than others. This is why the manufacturers of crucial accessories such as HDMI cables have come out with a range of what you could call ‘non-standard’ HDMI cables to suit a range of different needs.

The first of these is ultra flat HDMI cables, which are designed to fit under carpets, rugs and floors and in or on walls. They can also be discretely hidden behind bookshelves and under cabinets. They are more versatile than other types and are perfect for those wanting a neater and less cluttered-looking home entertainment system.

You can also find HDMI cables with one angle heads, which are suitable when you have limited space available behind a device’s HDMI port. Another similar product is the HDMI cable which has a rotate and swivel head, which serves the same purpose but is a lot more flexible. These adjustable features allow you to fit in an HDMI cable in very limited spaces, which you simple couldn’t do with a standard cable.

As soon as you begin shopping for HDMI cables, you will see that there are many different varieties available. The earliest version was the HDMI 1.0 cable, which when it was launched in 2002 met all digital home entertainment needs.

The HDMI specification has been revised over the years, with new features and capabilities added to each version. The reason this constant revision needs to happen is because the technology world moves so quickly, and new and exciting products are being launched onto the market all the time.

Two of the most commonly used versions these days are HDMI 1.3 and HDMI 1.4 cables, but which are better? You may have to pay a little more for HDMI 1.4 cables, as they are the newest, but are they worth the extra expense?

HDMI 1.3 cables are generally considered to be one of the most reliable, feature-packed versions available, and they meet most people’s needs perfectly. However, the only thing they can’t do is support 3D, which is why you may need HDMI 1.4 cables.

What’s more, HDMI 1.4 cables also have the Audio Return Channel (ARC) and the Ethernet Channel, so it may be worth splashing out a bit more on them.

To connect a HD TV, Blue-ray player or satellite receiver the answer is easy as they almost all support the HDMI Standard. You will be able to pick up a HDMI cable in the right length for less then a £10. Usually customers don't have to pay more than that. HDMI is transmitting a digital signal and as long as it gets to the opposite there is no impact on the picture quality with regards to the HDMI cable quality.

In summary, for short distance less than 5 metres the cheaper HDMI cable will suffice. However, if you go beyond this cables of inferior quality will lead to loss of signal qualtiy and worst case you will see nothing at all. The latest HDMI standard that support 3D and other new functions has the version 1.4. If you want to use these new features you will have to buy HDMI cables that are compatible. Using those your connections will be more reliable as in the past connected devices where not found. Since the introduction of HDMI version 1.4 this problem has gone away.

Hearing the difference
You will have to ask yourself with regard to other home cinema cables as well - analogue or digital? With analogue signals the quality of the cable is crucial, especially for video signals. The reason behind this is that video signals are transmitted using higher frequencies than audio signal and therefore have higher requirement with regards to shielding. Among the analogue video cables you will find composite video cables and Scart cables, still being and supported in a wide range for home entertainment devices. Quite a few device also support component cables, recognisable through the colour code and "YPbPr" designation. A good quality analogue cable will be thick (good even multiple shielding) and has plated contacts. As for speaker cables, even an ordinary person will hear the difference between expensive and and cheaper speaker cables.

Tuning via cable
Cables are available in the price range from £5/metre to £8000/metre for the absolute high end solutions. The is no need to to spend that much but if you have invested a couple of hundred pounds into your home entertainment devices then you should go cheap on the cables either. For RCA and 3.5mm cables you will also find a wide price range. Going with the good value cables here will be sufficient.

Best prices are available online
USB connections are number one choice if it come to computers. Yet not every USB cables is the same. If you have and want to use the new USB 3.0 interface you will need a USB 3.0 cable. And to complicate matters further not every USB 3.0 cable will fit every computer has different manufactures have introduced Mirco USB and Mini USB connectors. This is due to different sizes. Printers will accommodate bigger USB connector size as Smartphone and digital cameras for example. Also the pin layout of the connectors might be specific to your device and thus not every cable will work. As this is not obvious in most case the only option is to return and try a different cable.

The best way to purchase cables is online. Due to distance selling regulations cables can be returned within 7 days. Also when is comes to prices online shopping is the better alternative. Most electrical retail outlet will charge a premium for cables and accessories. These chains make their money not with TV sets and computers but with accessories of all sort. Most cables you will be able to buy cheaper online.