The Benefits of HDMI Splitters

An HDMI splitter is a great tool to have when you want to display the content from one source on multiple televisions. In this post, we dive into the specifics and the types of HDMI splitters available, when you want to use them, and how they can help your media setup.

The Basics

An HDMI splitter is a device that takes the video and audio content from a single source and then duplicates, or “splits”, that signal into many, which enables the signal to be displayed on multiple sources. For example, an HDMI splitter can take the content from one satellite box and display that content on multiple TVs. Depending on the type of HDMI splitter, the content is then displayed on two or more screens. HDMI splitters are great space savers. Instead of equipping a second TV with its own satellite or cable box, you can just use an HDMI splitter in one area of your entertainment center, cutting down on the number of items you need for the other TV. Most HDMI splitters have a slim and sleek design, which means you don’t have to worry about a bulky object taking up space around your media center. The type of HDMI splitter varies by the number of outputs available, the distance the signal can travel, and the extras available, such as 3D capability. We’ll provide a quick overview of the types of HDMI splitters available and the benefits of each. The most basic type of HDMI splitter is a 1x2 HDMI splitter. The 1x2 indicates that the splitter is able to share content between two different TVs or monitors from a single source. If you have an area in your home where you wish to use two screens either next to each other or in different rooms, then the 1x2 HDMI splitter will do the job. There are many options available that are 3D capable and that support a range of resolutions. If you went ahead and purchased a 4k television, there are also 1x2 HDMI splitters available that support this resolution. The next step up from a 1x2 HDMI splitter is one that can send a signal from the single source to four or more TVs or monitors. The number of TVs the HDMI splitter can support is usually indicated by a ratio. For example, a 1x4 HDMI splitter can send content from one source to four televisions, a 1x8 splitter can support eight televisions, and so on. HDMI splitters that can support four or more TVs are usually used in places like sports bars, classrooms, or conference rooms.

Additional Considerations

When deciding which HDMI splitter to purchase, it is important to first determine the number of TVs or monitors that will display the signal. If you only wish to display the content on two screens, then you will only need a 1x2 HDMI splitter. But if you wish to display the content on multiple screens, then an HDMI splitter that can support more output devices is needed. When navigating the choices available, also take into consideration the resolution the HDMI splitter can support. There are options that can support 4k televisions and others that support a lower resolution. Just keep in mind that if you have two TVs that have different resolutions, the HDMI splitter can only support the lower resolution—it can’t convert the signal to the larger resolution. So if you wish to display the game on two TVs, one that has 4k resolution and the other that has 720p, the splitter will display the content at the lower resolution. HDMI splitters also differ in the distance they can cover. There are some HDMI splitter options that include an amplifier that allows you to extend an HDMI signal up to 330 feet away. If the connection cable isn’t included, be sure to purchase a premium cable that can carry signals over long distances. Don’t forget about the audio. Most HDMI splitters will support standard, Direct Stream Digital (DSD), and HD (HBR), just be sure to check the specifications to ensure that the splitter will support your preferred audio. It is also important not to confuse an HDMI splitter with an HDMI switch. An HDMI switch allows you to connect multiple sources to one TV, saving you from having to plug and unplug cables when you want to switch between devices. Another useful tool but a completely different function from an HDMI splitter!

How To Use

Installing an HDMI splitter is easy and requires minimal additional equipment. First, decide where you want to store the HDMI splitter, and make sure it can easily connect to the source device—be it the satellite or cable box, DVD player, or Blu-ray player. Using an HDMI cable, connect the source’s HDMI output port to the HDMI splitter’s input port. Next step is to connect the HDMI splitter to the other TV or monitor. Just plug in, and you’re set. HDMI splitters are definitely useful and are a critical component when you want to display the same content on multiple televisions. Just check that you have the number of outputs you need, the correct resolution, and any extras like 3D capability.