How do you use cat 6 for HDMI?

Answer 1

HDMI cables are limited in length. Finding a cable more than ten meters or thirty feet can be difficult and they are expensive. One of the methods to overcome the cable length limitation is to use CAT5 or CAT6 cable. An HDMI signal can be converted to run over two separate network cables with minimal signal processing and over a single network cable with more extensive signal processing. A sender and a receiver are required and can be found under headings such as "HDMI over CAT5 CAT6" for example.

With extenders of this type, the maximum cable length can be increased to as much as 50 meters or 150 feet. Check the specification on each product to make sure the maximum length is sufficient. Be aware that these extenders make use of network cables but they should not ever be connected to a local area network. They do not operate as part of a data network.

A note of caution: HDMI senders demand a high data rate and therefore they demand CAT5 or CAT6 cables that are truly compliant with the standards set out for the cables. There are many cables available on auction and trading sites at a low cost that do not comply with the CAT5 or CAT6 standards. In fact, many fail the tests in a spectacular fashion. As network devices are able to negotiate data rates to handle poor cable performance, non-compliant cables are often not noticed. Use an HDMI extender and they will simply stop the signal being delivered. It is vital that the cables are sourced from a trusted supplier to avoid this problem.