A consumer who shops for a high definition LCD television will insist on one with HDMI connectivity. The reason is that the high definition multimedia interface can only facilitate uncompressed data transfer of audio and video from other consumer electronic devices to the digital television. An earlier version Digital Visual Interface (DVI) was capable of transferring only audio signals. In the high definition television segment HDMI is an inseparable option and it may remain so for the next generation devices.
The absence of several cables cobwebbed behind the television sets is a prima facie advantage of the users of HDMI supported system. The single cable connection adopted by the system has made possible such a simple and hassle free set up. And yet, all audio/visual digital devices like set top box, gaming consoles, DVD players etc can be interconnected through this single cable. No doubt, this digital interface is the panacea to obtain super quality video signals. Monitors with high rates of resolution are desired to get maximum benefits from the HDMI connectivity.
But HDMI is available in different formats like HDMI 1.1, HDMI 1.2, HDMI 1.2a and HDMI 1.3. The first version will support only audio signals. The second one is an improved version with compatibility with personal computers etc. The next one 1.2a is a combined version with CEC (Consumer Electronic Control) which is utilized in many applications. The latest version is 1.3 inputs. The gradual evolution of HDMI is an indication of its potential to grow further and remain as a compatible format to support connectivity in the relevant segments. It has redefined the concept of Home Theatre in the contemporary scenario. Latest 1.3 input of HDMI offers high speed connections with its single link bandwidth which is sufficient to meet the future requirements of high definition devices. A remarkable advantage obtained from HDMI connectivity is the superior picture quality with exceptional colour reproduction characteristics.
Even though HDMI 1.3 is a latest innovation, it is compatible with earlier versions. As already mentioned it is also the connectivity option for the next generation devices. HDMI is the product of joint efforts by leading companies like Panasonic, Hitachi, Sony, Philips, Toshiba and others. The LCD television with HDMI 1.3 input support is a unique product which offers quality output. Consumers of electronic devices have realized that technology is undergoing rapid changes and consequently many products and systems are becoming obsolete periodically. But HDMI 1.3 input is a phenomenon that will remain effective for many decades, notwithstanding the periodical changes in the television technologies that may take place in the future.
