Why HDBaseT Extender?
HDBaseT is a global standard for long-distance AV transmission and distribution. The connectivity solution consolidates different data types (audio, visual, controls, power, Ethernet, etc.) and transmits them via one single Ethernet cable over a longer distance.
HDBaseT is developed by the HDBaseT Alliance and has evolved to the third specification in 2019 the new tech enables extenders to transmit 4K@60hz video up to 100m/328ft. Its versatility is well discussed in this article.
Types of Extender
Different technologies are applied in order to have data run for a longer distance with less data loss. They can be categorized by the medium they use for this purpose — Balun extenders, HDBaseT extenders, Fiber extenders, Extenders over IP, Wireless extenders.
They perform differently, for example, in the extension length, maximum bandwidth, supported interfaces, and how it is installed. That’s why they are used in very different scenarios.
Fiber extenders are more widely used in grand projects, for example in a stadium, as some of them can transfer AV data up to an incredible 10km; Extenders over IP are likely applied when the AV system requires scalability and flexible routing for complicated data distribution and controls; Wireless extenders reduce cable clusters and keep the space clean and tidy. However, there should be no blocking objects in between to make sure the signals could run smoothly.
You may find them helpful in certain scenarios. For common use in families and businesses, an HDBaseT extender will more likely meet your needs.
HDBaseT Extenders
Because of the cost-efficiency, rich features, and good enough extended length, HDBaseT extenders are used almost universally in families and organizations.
Here are 5 reasons why you shall choose an HDBaseT extender for your AV installation.
- Reasonable cost
- Good enough transmission distance
- Rich supported features
- Easy installation
- Compatibility
1. Reasonable cost
Most extenders over fiber are extending the AV signals for more than 300 meters. You will cost around $400-$1000 for an average 4K fiber extender in most cases. What’s more, an OM3 fiber cable is needed for connection and they are often sold for a good reel of 1000 feet at a high price (much higher than an Ethernet cable would cost).
Compared to wireless extenders and Extenders over IP (designed for use in a LAN), HDBaseT extenders on the market are of great variety. A good amount of products are offered to support 1080p, HDMI 1.4 or HDMI 2.0 with IR controls for different lengths from 40m/to 130ft. to 100m/328ft.
You will always find HDBaseT extenders priced in an affordable range. Check out the AV Access shop right away.
2. Good enough transmission distance
HDBaseT spec 3.0 is able to transmit 4K@60hz video up to 100m/328ft. This distance is sufficient for most uses in families and businesses, even if you are connecting media devices from the basement to the living room upstairs. For example, this HDBaseT eARC HDMI extender is mostly used in this case for home theater installation.
3. Rich supported features
The great strength of HDBaseT is that the tech consolidates video, audio, controls, Ethernet, and power data, and helps transmit all data via a single Ethernet cable. Therefore, HDBaseT extenders can be efficient and really versatile.
- Audio-visual features include HDMI2.0, 4K@60hz, HDCP 2.3, Dolby Vision, HDR, Dolby Atmos, S/PDIF, and eARC.
- USB 2.0 for gamepads, webcams, microphones, and more.
- Control signals support IR, RS232, CEC, GPIO, and PC.
- Power supports up to 100 Watts for PoH.
Read the infographic from HDBaseT Alliance.
4. Point-to-point installation
Unlike extenders over IP, an HDBaseT extender supports only one-to-one connection. If you are building up a matrix for many-to-many controls, an Ethernet switch is a must to link all the transmitters and receivers. For most IPAV products, the technical configuration is required.
Point-to-point installation would be more direct and easy to handle. If your room is already covered with Ethernet cabling, extenders over Ethernet could easily blend into your environment.
5. Compatibility
HDBaseT is backward compatible, which means that even if a device in your AV system is not of the same HDBaseT generation as your extender, they won’t contradict each other but will figure out how to work together and get you the best quality data they can offer.
Conclusions
Obviously, different types of extenders have their strengths and weaknesses. There is nothing about the best HDMI extender in the world, but an HDMI extender of the best portfolio that meets your current needs. In most cases, it would end up being an HDBaseT extender.
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About AV Access
AV Access is an experienced manufacturer that produces quality HDMI extenders, KVM extenders, wireless presentation systems, etc. and we also offer AV over IP solutions for scalable uses. These products — HDBaseT extender, and 4K HDMI extender — are among our best-sellers.
Are you a newbie? AV Access blog helps beginners to get on board easily (visit and learn about KVM extenders, USB extenders, and more).
Original copy:https://www.avaccess.com/blogs/guides/hdbaset-extender/
