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Setting up a 4K AV system together?  

Whether you are a professional installation service provider or a small business owner, a reliable 4K HDMI extender is essential for reliable ultra-HD video transmission to destinations further away from an AV receiver, 4K cable boxes, or streaming boxes. 

However, with so many products available, how do you choose? Continue reading this blog to understand the factors that should be considered when purchasing 4K HDMI extenders, such as performance, compatibility, and more. 

List of Key Considerations While Choosing 4K HDMI Extenders 

1. Video Resolution and Refresh Rate Support 

Not all extenders support full 4K. 

Be sure the device supports true 4K resolution (3840x2160) at 60Hz with 4:4:4 chroma subsampling. This is vital to achieve clear, crisp images and smooth playback, particularly for digital signage, conference rooms, and high-end home theatre setups. 

2. Transmission Distance and Signal Type 

The main reason to use an HDMI extender is to extend the signal beyond the standard length capability. So, the next question to ask is: how far can it extend?  

Most 4K HDMI extenders often use Cat5e/6 cables or fibre optics to extend signals up to 70–100 meters. However, some may extend beyond this distance but with lesser quality.  

Furthermore, some extenders support HDBaseT technology, which always ensures long distances, uncompressed transmission with no latency. 

3. Wired vs. Wireless HDMI Extenders 

Both wired and wireless options have their place: 

Wired 4K HDMI extenders are more stable and ideal for fixed setups. 

Wireless HDMI extenders offer flexibility and are easier to install, but they may experience interference in high-traffic areas. 

For critical applications like boardrooms or security monitoring, go wired. For occasional use or clean aesthetics, wireless might work just fine. 

4. Latency and Signal Compression 

If you are streaming content live, such as gaming, live events, or security feeds, low latency is critical. 

Some extenders will compress the HDMI signal, often leading to delay or loss of quality. If it is critical to achieve a low-latency and visually lossless experience, look for extenders with zero latency or visually lossless compression. 

5. IR Pass-through and USB Extension 

Many professional setups require remote control ability. An IR pass-through will allow you to remote control the source device (ie, Blu-ray player, streaming box) from the remote display end. 

Also, if you need to connect a USB peripheral (keyboard, mouse, webcam), then USB over HDMI extenders are great.  

6. Build Quality and Power Options 

Remember the physical aspects too. A good 4K HDMI extender should have a solid build, proper heat dissipation, and stable connectors.  

Also, pay attention to whether the extender is powered by a wall adapter or PoE (Power over Ethernet). PoE simplifies cable management and is ideal for clean installations. 

In The End 

Choosing a 4K HDMI extender can make a huge difference between experiencing a fantastic AV experience and a bad one. Hence, focus on resolution support, distance, latency, build quality, and additional features such as IR pass-through or EDID management. Whether you're installing HDMI extenders in a conference room, setting up a home theatre, or simply upgrading your office AV infrastructure, by considering these factors, you can make an informed decision.