Why Do I Need an HDMI Extender?

HDMI extenders solve a common dilemma of trying to connect HDMI sources to TVs far away in different rooms or offices. This is because HDMI cables max out at about 50 feet before signal degradation kicks in. Ever experience your display lagging, pixelating, or even completely going out? You may just need an HDMI extender.

 

 

HDMI extenders are point-to-point devices that—yup, you guessed it—extend HDMI signals. Using category cables, or CAT cables, HDMI extenders connect sources (cable box, game console) to displays located over 50 ft away. CAT cables are the cables for connecting your computer to your router for internet access.

Compared to HDMI cables that have bulky connector heads, CAT cables are more efficient running through walls, crawl spaces, and attics. Another benefit of CAT cables is they are less expensive and less likely to fail versus HDMI cables.

HDMI vs CAT cables

There are also HDMI extenders with KVM functionality. KVM stands for keyboard, video, and mouse. And through the HDMI extender, you can control all three aspects of an HDMI source like computers, cable boxes, and media players.

An HDMI/KVM extender benefits many applications such as offices, schools, hospitals, call centers, and retail stores. It improves office workspaces by reducing clutter and clearing desk space. It protects computers from damage, technical issues, and unauthorized tampering in industrial and public environments.

An HDMI/KVM extender is also great in live event and presentation settings where audio, video, and control signals can all be sent from the computer, typically located backstage and away from the speaker. This allows for control over the screen’s content.

BZBGEAR® HDMI Extenders

BZBGEAR has two affordable 4K HDMI extenders: BG-EXH-70C and BG-EXHKVM-70C. The BG-EXHKVM-70C includes KVM functionality allowing remote control of computers and other HDMI sources.

BG-EXH-70C 

The BG-EXH-70C is a 4K HDMI extender that transmits an uncompressed 4K@60Hz signal 230 ft (70 m) with zero latency using a CAT 6/6A/7 network cable. You can extract digital audio for an external audio source via the S/PDIF port while supporting audio formats Dolby Digital, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-Audio, DTS-HD, and LPCM.

BG-EXH-70C 4K HDMI Extender

Select ARC with the flip of a switch for audio returning from compatible displays. An HDMI loopout allows an extra display to be connected by the transmitter. The BG-EXH-70C ensures easy installs with flexibility and reliability from bi-directional IR pass-through, surge protection, and a simple plug-and-play setup.

The BG-EXH-70C even extends HDMI signals from PTZ cameras allowing for remote viewing and control. When combining this HDMI extender with a video switch like the BG-HDVS42U, it creates the perfect production bundle for live streaming, broadcasting, house of worship, video podcasts, and live events.

BG-EXH-70C diagram

BG-EXHKVM-70C

The BG-EXHKVM-70C HDMI extender is similar to the BG-EXH-70C, with the added ability to control a keyboard and mouse from a remote location. It transmits an uncompressed 4K@60Hz HDMI signal 230 ft (70 m) with USB 2.0.

Like the BG-EXH-70C, it consists of two units: a transmitter (Tx) and a receiver (Rx). The transmitter connects to the source (e.g., computer, media player). The receiver connects to the monitor, keyboard, and mouse. KVM functionality allows you to remotely control the source (e.g., computer, media player) from the display side with a keyboard and mouse.

For more information, contact BZB Express at 1.888.660.2962 or email [email protected]. We provide full service for all your audiovisual needs. Browse our entire online catalog for countless possibilities regarding your project. Catch the buzz on our YouTube channel BZB TV for insightful demos and reviews on the latest AV gear. Please show your support and subscribe so you don’t miss any future episodes!