These days no home is complete without entertainment devices. From TV, laptops, and video projector to digital television, there is something of everyone’s choice and preference. And all these require proper connections to work. Among all, HDMI cable is what you would want to have at home. 

It is supported on over a billion devices, as it helps transfer audio video from one device to another. The best part is that it comes in all forms and colors, such as micro HDMI (Type D) cables, etc. However, it has evolved to do more, such as connecting a streaming box to the TV. Wondering how? Well, here is all you need to know.

Connecting a Streaming Box to the TV 

Gone are the days of SBT boxes. With new and growing technology, people are opting for new changes. One such is streaming boxes. Because online video content is on the rise, more and more people are subscribing to online streaming services. Also, these days the source of entertainment has grown, such as Plex, Prime Video, Netflix, Apple TV, etc.

However, to access these services, streaming boxes are required, such as Fire Stick, Chromecast, and more. Wondering how to connect a streaming box to the TV using a HDMI cable? Well, here are the steps to follow:

• Firstly, plug your streaming device in, and then switch your TV to the HDMI input. Keep note of the port’s label. 
• Next, follow the instructions appearing on the screen. 
• Next sign in to your home’s WIFI network 
• Finally, you can sign in to streaming apps. 
• For any queries or issues, you can also connect to your nearby experts or electricians. 

What are some other Uses of HDMI Cable?

HDMI, or High Definition Multimedia, is useful in various ways. Here is what this cable can do for you:

1. Watch Movies on TV from your laptop.

Watching video content on your TV (both smart and ordinary) from your laptop is the most popular use of the HDMI cable. So if you’ve got a movie downloaded on Netflix or a laptop, then watching it on a TV with a bigger visual appeal with the help of an HDMI cable is the best thing you can do. 

2. Connecting STB to TV

Another use of HDMI cable is to connect an STB to your TV. These days, STBs come with an HDMI port. This means you’ll be able to watch high-definition audio and video content on your TV. In addition to home, HDMI is also used in other industries such as aerospace, healthcare, the military, surveillance, and more.  

3. Connect a Home Theater System 

Another best use of HDMI cable is to set up a Home theatre system. What is better than watching content at a high-resolution, unmatched sound quality mode? Another use is the speed of data transfer, especially if you subscribe to one or more streaming services. 

What are the Different HDMI Connector Types? 

There are different types of HDMI connector types, including:

1. Regular Size (Type A)

It is used to connect source devices such as computers, media streamers, and video game consoles to TVs, video projectors, cable/satellite boxes, etc. These standard connectors are defined in the HDMI 1.0 specification and come with 19 pins. These are compatible with single-link DVI-D.

2. Mini Size (Type C)

Mini HDMI (Type C) cables are used on DSLR cameras, standard-sized tablets, PC monitors, and video projector. etc. These mini connectors are defined in the HDMI 1.3 specification and come with 19 pins. It can be connected to type A using a converter cable. 

3. Micro Size (Type D)

Micro HDMI (Type D) cables are used on devices such as smartphones, digital cameras as well as smaller tablets. These micro connectors are defined in the HDMI 1.4 specification and come with 19 pins. 

4. Automotive (Type E)

These come with a special connector. These are referred to as automotive connection systems and are defined in the HDMI 1.4 specification. It can be connected to other types using an adapter and also comes with a locking tab. 

What are the Various Communications within HDMI?

The different types of communication within HDMI are as follows:

1. TMDS 

TMDS or Transition-minimized differential signaling is the method used by HDMI to transfer audio, video and auxiliary data between devices. 

2. DDC

DDC or the Display data channel is the method that sends EDID data between devices to communicate. 

3. CEC

CEC or Consumer electronics control allows the operation of several HDMI-connected devices using a single remote control such as volume and power settings. 

4. ARC and HEC

ARC is the method used by HDMI connections to send audio back to the source for playback. HEC is a high-speed two-way data link that allows communication for audio, video, data and Ethernet. 

What are some other Uses of HDMI Cable Connections?

Be it micro or Mini HDMI (Type C) cables, HDMI cables have a wide range of uses. For instance, devices that require HDMI connections are as follows:

• Cable/Satellite boxes 
• DVRs
• Video projectors 
• TVs
• PC monitors 
• Blu-ray
• DVD
• Ultra HD players 
• Media streamers 
• Home theater receivers
• PCs/Laptops
• Game consoles 
• Smartphones 
• Camcorders
• Digital cameras 

What makes HDMI So Great?

Wondering why HDMI cable is the first choice for home users? Well, here are the reasons that make it so great:

1. Audio 

Older connections cannot carry multi-channel surround sound. Talking about HDMI, it comes with different types of audio format support. Because it carries both audio and video signals, you’ll no longer require separate cables. 

2. Video 

HDMI cables support a wide range of multiple video formats. This includes 8K and 4K Ultra HD. Additionally, it also supports 1080p full HD resolution, 720p HD resolution and 3D video with both active or passive glass. 

3. Simple Connection 

As mentioned earlier, HDMI cables don’t require separate audio and video cables. This as a result means you’ll have fewer cables, thereby simplifying connections.  

4. Safe Communication 

HDMI cables are referred to as safe communications meaning the digital signals pass cannot be altered as these signals are encrypted and authenticated. In other words, HDMI signals are never lost and are renowned for lossless transmission. 

5. Better Quality 

Being a high-speed cable it works with 100 Mbps speed, thus enabling us to view games and videos in a better quality such as 4k and 1080p. It is capable of transferring high-quality audio and videos. Additionally, it also plays high-quality audio. 

Some Tips to Follow when Buying an HDMI Cable 

Here are some tips to follow when buying an HDMI cable:

• Always make sure you’re purchasing the right connector for your devices.
• Be careful about the cable length as purchasing too long or too short can come in the way of moving components.
• Prices don’t reflect the quality of an HDMI cable, so don’t pay more than needed. 
• Purchase from reputed stores or sites and look for an official certification logo. 
• Look for the material because some cables come with standard protective PVC plastic exterior and shielding protection while some come with nylon braided cord. 
• Choose a high-speed HDMI cable with fold connectors as it offers top-quality pictures. 
• Opt for HDMI cables with gripping connectors as it ensures that the cable stays attached during difficult installation times.