logo
logo
Sign in

A Comprehensive Guide To Difference Between HDMI and USB Cables

avatar
Brightlink AV
A Comprehensive Guide To Difference Between HDMI and USB Cables

The high definition multimedia (HDMI) and Universal serial bus (USB) technologies are helping millions of respective users. The USB is trending standard for computer connection while HDMI cable is becoming more popular as consumer purchase high definition devices. Although the two technologies are very separate – but sometimes they can be used in combination.

History

The first version of HDMI came into the picture in 2002. The HDMI version 1.0 was the first technology that can carry all-digital audio and visual data. Next, version 1.1 and 1.2 become available on May 2004 and August 2005 respectively. The HDMI technology updated to its next version i.e., June 2006 and as of June 2009, HDMI was in its 1.4 version.

USB, on the other hand, originates in 1996, USB 1.0. At that time a USB cable can transfer data at 1.5Mbps, USB 2.0 emerged in 2001 with 480Mbps data transfer. USB 3.0 was released on August 2008 that give massive 5.0 Gbps rate.

Quick Tip: You can use HDMI and USB to set up your 2x2 video wall controller in office, home or even in sports bars, etc.

 

Benefits

HDMI Cable allows you to connect high definition device, for example, television, gaming consoles, and media players. You can transfer both audio and visual data – which means you no longer have to use separate cables for each data types. Nowadays, you can expect the best digital quality when using HDMI technology.

USB connection enables the computer and hardware device to interact. Also, all USB plugs are compatible with different USB type – so you don’t have to upgrade your laptop or the rest of the equipment to use USB. In addition, USB technology can also charge low powered electronics, for example, your mobile phones.

 

Considerations

The HDMI is typically effective for a distance of 30 feet. Although some manufacturers are creating HDMI cable that can extend longer and still effective. You can also use hardware like repeaters and amplifiers to extend this distance. However, it is usual for HDMI quality to deteriorate with longer cables.

The Current trending version on USB is 3.0, which give you 5.0 Gbps speed. The USB port is compatible with all USB connection – but USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 will not be able to perform at their full speed with older ports.

Note: You can use HDMI for a 16x 16 HDMI Video Matrix switch setup.

 

Misconceptions

Some device may have ports for both HDMI and USB connections – the technologies do not typically serve the same function. But, a consumer can connect an HDMI adapter to their computer USB port to transfer audio and video data.

 

The Bottom Line

With modern innovation, we are quickly entering the hybrid mode where USB and HDMI will be used together for different setups. Nowadays, you can order HDMI and USB online for your setup.

collect
0
avatar
Brightlink AV
guide
Zupyak is the world’s largest content marketing community, with over 400 000 members and 3 million articles. Explore and get your content discovered.
Read more