Today's electronics world is all-digital. As analog devices gradually fade away, and are discarded, they are replaced with new components and new interfaces. HDTV sets were originally designed simply as replacements for those huge and heavy analog sets, and were sometimes not given as much input capacity as they would ultimately need. An HDMI switcher, which stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface switcher, is one way to get around that problem.
A lack of inputs automatically means that there are limits to the number of devices that can be used without resorting to cumbersome manual cable-changing. Electronics dealers and manufacturers would like for us to avoid this issue simply by replacing our older equipment, even though most of it still probably works very well. A switch is a much more cost-effective solution.
If you are not really a tech-savvy type, how do you know when to buy this type of device? Just add up all the video components you want to play through the HDTV. Then examine the back and sides of the set and count the HDMI input ports. If you have never looked for them, they are easy to find, and usually are labeled. If you have more devices to plug in than input ports, it's time to get a switcher.
The wise consumer plans ahead. Before buying the first switcher in the store, take a hard look at what you already have in terms of electronics, and especially at what you may add in the future. The old game player might still do the job, but if you want to add another one, or simply replace it, remember that the newer models will connect through an HDMI port. The same is true for your old DVD player. A new Blu-ray player, for example, means yet another digital interface.
Buy a switch that has the capacity to keep up with future demands. A good rule to remember is to find one that has at least two more ports than you currently need. This will come in handy when the kids grow older and demand the latest gaming devices. Plan ahead for expansion. It is a lot less expensive to add a switch than to buy a new HDTV with more ports.
It is also important to make sure your new switcher is compatible with your current signal. HDTV typically uses a 1080p video signal, along with high definition audio. Newer sets are HDMI 1.3 capable, so you would need the corresponding switch. Check before you make a purchase, and make sure all standards match.
A new HDMI switcher will likely have a remote control, and indicator lights on the front to show when a particular device is in use, making troubleshooting much easier and quicker. Be advised that there are sometimes compatibility issues. Some components in your system might work well, while others may have problems. Make sure you save your receipts for ease of exchange if necessary. The cost is relatively low, in the $150-$200 range, and will extend the useful life of your TV.
A lack of inputs automatically means that there are limits to the number of devices that can be used without resorting to cumbersome manual cable-changing. Electronics dealers and manufacturers would like for us to avoid this issue simply by replacing our older equipment, even though most of it still probably works very well. A switch is a much more cost-effective solution.
If you are not really a tech-savvy type, how do you know when to buy this type of device? Just add up all the video components you want to play through the HDTV. Then examine the back and sides of the set and count the HDMI input ports. If you have never looked for them, they are easy to find, and usually are labeled. If you have more devices to plug in than input ports, it's time to get a switcher.
The wise consumer plans ahead. Before buying the first switcher in the store, take a hard look at what you already have in terms of electronics, and especially at what you may add in the future. The old game player might still do the job, but if you want to add another one, or simply replace it, remember that the newer models will connect through an HDMI port. The same is true for your old DVD player. A new Blu-ray player, for example, means yet another digital interface.
Buy a switch that has the capacity to keep up with future demands. A good rule to remember is to find one that has at least two more ports than you currently need. This will come in handy when the kids grow older and demand the latest gaming devices. Plan ahead for expansion. It is a lot less expensive to add a switch than to buy a new HDTV with more ports.
It is also important to make sure your new switcher is compatible with your current signal. HDTV typically uses a 1080p video signal, along with high definition audio. Newer sets are HDMI 1.3 capable, so you would need the corresponding switch. Check before you make a purchase, and make sure all standards match.
A new HDMI switcher will likely have a remote control, and indicator lights on the front to show when a particular device is in use, making troubleshooting much easier and quicker. Be advised that there are sometimes compatibility issues. Some components in your system might work well, while others may have problems. Make sure you save your receipts for ease of exchange if necessary. The cost is relatively low, in the $150-$200 range, and will extend the useful life of your TV.
About the Author:
I know that you want to learn more about this topic right now, so what are you waiting for, learn more by clicking here right now!: HDMI Switchers and HDMI To DVI Cable
