Smart Home Blog

There is a lot of devices which allow to connect several HD sources to one output. But sometimes it’s needed to be done opposite operation - distribute a signal from one source to the different outputs. Sima 1 In / 4 Out HDMI Distribution Amp offers such functionality. It supports up to 4 output HD devices and can boost HDMI signals for long cable runs. Additionally, it includes S/PDIF digital audio output and IR and front panel button lockout. The HDMI Distribution Amp is shipped with remote control.

The Sima 1 In / 4 Out HDMI Distribution Amp is available on Smarthome site at the price $339.99.

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The situation when the HDMI/DVI source is placed far from LCD TV is not something extra ordinary. So, Optical Extender for HDMI & DVI might be interesting to bring media content in that case. It allows to send the digital signals over up to 100 meters distance using fiber optic cable. It supports all DVI-D single link resolutions, HDTV and HDCP.

The extender contains two modules: transmitter and receiver. The transmitter is connected to the digital signal source via standard HDMI cable or HDMI to DVI cable. The receiver is plugged to the TV or monitor the same manner. Two LC Duplex fiber optic patch cables are used to transmit the video and audio signals between two modules.

For possibility to connect different part of your home theater without caring about the distance you should pay 495.00GBP.

Also, note that you can find many useful devices, cables etc on the Lindy web site. To make your search easier that site is added to the SmartSearch.

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IOGEAR has released its new 4 Port Automatic HDMI Switch - GHDMIAS4. It allows to connect up to four HD outputs into one input. Moreover, thanks to Iogear’s patented HDAS automatic switching technology, the GHDMIAS4 can detect when device is power on and switch to the appropriate output automatically. If you don’t satisfy such intelligent you may use remote control at any time.

The switch supports 1080p and HDMI 1.3 and it’s available at $189.95 with 6-foot HDMI cable as a bonus.

[via Engadget]

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The new Extron HDMI 201 A D seems a good solution for extending HDMI signals along with additional stereo audio and RS-232 control signals long distances over standard CAT 5 cables. It has a range for transmission of HDTV 1080p and 1920×1200 signals about 30 meters. The HDTV 720p and 1080i as well as XGA (1024×768) signals can be transmitted over 60 meters.

The HDMI 201 A D transmitter and receiver units are made in Decora-style wall plate form factor. So they won’t break interior of your house.

I’m thinking to get that extender for testing. Because it may help to avoid using one media director in Plutohome system. For example, let’s image that we have Core/Hybrid which can be used to watch TV. But it’s placed in the Basement and plasma is in your kitchen. What we can do to connect the plasma and core? Right, use the HDMI 201 A D. I suspect that 30 meters will be enough for me. I’ll post my experience here. so, stay tune!

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Sony showed a new conception of HTPC - VAIO TP1. It’s stylish and power and it’s won’t break design of your living room. TP1 features Intel Core 2 Duo processor and 300GB HDD. It run Windows Vista Home Premium Edition. There are following IN/OUT: an analog cable input, two USB ports, an audio input, a headphone jack, a microphone jack, optical out, Ethernet port, S-Video, HDMI out, and VGA out on the back side of TP1.

No word on pricing and availability yet.

[via Krunker]

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