You have your high definition TV. You have your HD cable package and your Blu Ray Disc Player. Now all you need to do is connect them all and sit down and enjoy. However, you want to get it right the first time and you aren't sure what cable to use. You'll need a cable that can properly transmit the high resolution picture that you purchased the HDTV for in the first place. Otherwise, you might as well have saved money and gone with a standard definition set. Here's a look at HDTV cable options.
HDMI
HDMI is the current standard in high definition connectivity. It stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface and uses a cable that looks similar to a USB cable to connect HD components to your HD television. HDMI is actually 19 individual wires packaged into a single cable and allows for transmission of uncompressed digital video and 8 channels of audio.
DVI
DVI, or Digital Video Interface, is an older connection platform used in older TVs and components. Like HDMI, DVI uses a digital signal; however, a DVI cable does not include audio and requires separate audio cables.
Component Video
Unlike HDMI and DVI, component video is an analog connection. It breaks the signal down into 3 parts (components), using a 3-plug cable (red, green, blue).
Differences
Since HDMI and DVI use the same digital technology in signal transmission, picture quality is the same between the two. The main difference here is that they use different connection hardware and DVI does not include audio. It's also important to note that HDMI is a newer technology and will be more compatible with newer equipment. Component video, on the other hand, is an analog technology. The effect this will actually have on your picture is debatable and dependent upon your other components. Like DVI, component video requires separate audio cables.
Decision
While delineating the various types of HDTV cables is necessary for the purposes of an article on the topic, it might not be that interesting or useful to you. What you really want to know is which cable to buy. Digital cables are often considered superior because they allow for seamless transmission of a digital signal from source to television. Component video cables, conversely, require conversion from analog to digital, which can degrade the signal quality. However, how much this affects your picture quality will depend largely on your components and that can be difficult to predict. If you're determined to get the best picture possible, audition both types of cable to see if there's a discernable difference. Cables are inexpensive and should be easy to return, so this shouldn't be a problem. On the other hand, if you're looking for the best all-around option that's easy to use, go with an HDMI cable. You'll have surround-sound capability built in, and a cable capable of delivering high quality HD. Since DVI is an older technology and doesn't include audio, it's not as practical as a HDMI cable.
Purchase
When looking for a cable beware of overpricing. You're not likely to get a better quality picture or sound with expensive cable. An inexpensive ($20 or less in 2009) HDMI cable will perform as well as expensive "high end" cables. Don't throw your money away.
Tags: have your, HDMI cable, include audio, audio cables, cable that