HDMI 1.4 specifications announced

Enhancements Include Networking, Audio Return Channel, Improved Performance, and New Connectors

HDMI 1.4 will require a special cable

 HDMI has grown into a very reliable and popular channel for high-definition digital connectivity. It is being adopted by consumer electronics and PC manufacturers worldwide. According to market research firm In-Stat, over 394 million HDMI-enabled devices are expected to ship in 2009. This latest version will offer some additional benefits as given below:

·         HDMI Ethernet Channel – A data channel will be added to the HDMI cable that will enable high-speed bi-directional communication between connected devices. Users will be able to send and receive data via 100 Mb/sec Ethernet. The HDMI Ethernet Channel (HEC) will allow an internet enabled HDMI device to share its internet connection with other HDMI devices without the need for a separate Ethernet cable.

·         Audio Return Channel – This will reduce the number of cables required to deliver audio upstream for processing and playback.

·         Improved resolution support – The new version supports a resolution of 4,096x2,160 at 24Hz and 3,840x2,160 at up to 30Hz.

·         Improved colors – HDMI-enabled display devices will be capable of reproducing more accurate life-like colors when connected to a digital still camera. 

·         Micro HDMI Connector – It is a 19-pin connector which is almost 50% smaller than the size of Mini HDMI connector.

There would be new HDMI cables available in the market so as to take advantage of the HEC. The cables would be available in the following four types:

·         Standard HDMI Cable – supports data rates up to 1080i/60

·         High Speed HDMI Cable – supports data rates beyond 1080p, including Deep Color and all 3D formats of the new 1.4 specification

·         Standard HDMI Cable with Ethernet – includes Ethernet connectivity

·         High Speed HDMI Cable with Ethernet – includes Ethernet connectivity