One of the most overlooked aspects of HDBaseT might be its ability to carry 100W of power over a single Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable.
The technology may transform how displays are installed by integrators and be especially appealing for video walls, which rely on multiple flat panels and AV distribution.
Similar to HDMI, the technology allows for a single cable to be pulled, but this time with several added twists (pun intended).
First, it’s way skinnier — a Category 5e or 6 cable vs. a clunky HDMI. Second, and most importantly, the single cable carries both video and 100W of power, aptly named Power of HDBaseT (POH). It means low-voltage integrators will be able to move and mount flat-panel TVs without the assistance of an electrician or the need to earn their own high-voltage electrical license, because there is no power outlet required.
When anything sounds too good to be true, there can be hitches, of course. First, there are no devices currently on the market delivering the 100 watts, but there are others already out there delivering up to 60W per port, enough power for cameras, wireless mesh network access points and small TVs.
Second, some integrators have raised the potential concern for overheating of the cables when packed in tight bundles. Therefore, the use of shielded cable for POH is important.
Find out how HDBaseT can save integrators money on labor and hardware in this video wall case study.
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HDMI is a complex and ever-evolving technology that is at the heart of today’s digital entertainment.
