Introduction
High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) cables are used to transfer audio and video signals between devices. But with the increasing number of HDMI versions, it is important to check the version of the cable to make sure it is compatible with the device. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you know how to tell HDMI cable version.
HDMI Versions
HDMI cables come in a variety of versions. They are all backward compatible, which means an HDMI 2.1 cable will work with any device with an HDMI 2.0 or lower port. The latest version is the HDMI 2.1, which supports 8K resolution, a higher refresh rate, and enhanced audio. Here are the features of each HDMI version:
HDMI 1.4
HDMI 1.4 is the fourth version of the HDMI interface. This version supports 3D, Audio Return Channel (ARC), and 4K resolution.
HDMI 2.0
HDMI 2.0 is the fifth version of the HDMI interface. It supports 4K resolution at 60 Hz, which means it can transfer more data than HDMI 1.4. It also supports up to 32 audio channels and has a bandwidth of 18 Gbps.
HDMI 2.1
HDMI 2.1 is the latest version of the HDMI interface. It supports 8K resolution at 60 Hz and 4K resolution at 120 Hz. It also supports up to 48 audio channels and has a bandwidth of 48 Gbps.
How to Tell HDMI Cable Version
Knowing the version of the HDMI cable is important to ensure that it is compatible with the device. There are several ways to tell HDMI cable version.
Check the Packaging
The simplest way to tell HDMI cable version is to check the packaging. Most cables will have the version number clearly marked on the packaging.
Check the Connector
Another way to tell HDMI cable version is to check the connector. HDMI cables have different types of connectors depending on the version. The latest version, HDMI 2.1, has a Type-C connector, which is slightly different from the Type-A connector used in earlier versions.
Check the Bandwidth
The bandwidth of the HDMI cable can also be used to tell the version. HDMI 1.4 has a bandwidth of 10.2 Gbps, while HDMI 2.0 has a bandwidth of 18 Gbps and HDMI 2.1 has a bandwidth of 48 Gbps.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Tell HDMI Cable Version
What is the highest HDMI version?
The highest HDMI version is HDMI 2.1, which supports 8K resolution at 60 Hz and 4K resolution at 120 Hz. It also supports up to 48 audio channels and has a bandwidth of 48 Gbps.
Is HDMI 1.4 backward compatible?
Yes, HDMI 1.4 is backward compatible, which means it can be used with any device with an HDMI 2.0 or lower port.
What does HDMI 2.0 support?
HDMI 2.0 supports 4K resolution at 60 Hz, which means it can transfer more data than HDMI 1.4. It also supports up to 32 audio channels and has a bandwidth of 18 Gbps.
What is the difference between HDMI 1.4 and 2.1?
The main difference between HDMI 1.4 and 2.1 is the resolution and bandwidth. HDMI 1.4 supports 3D, Audio Return Channel (ARC), and 4K resolution, while HDMI 2.1 supports 8K resolution at 60 Hz and 4K resolution at 120 Hz. It also supports up to 48 audio channels and has a bandwidth of 48 Gbps.
Conclusion
Knowing the version of the HDMI cable is important to ensure that it is compatible with the device. There are several ways to tell HDMI cable version, such as checking the packaging, checking the connector, and checking the bandwidth. With this guide, you can easily tell the version of an HDMI cable.
