Since 2002, the High Definition Multimedia Interface specification has been revised six times. The HDMI standard is revised for a number of different reasons, but one of the most significant is to provide support for new advances in audio and video technology and increased bandwidth to support these new features. The most recent HDMI 1.3a, Category 2 specification, for example, specifies data speeds as high as 10.2 Gbps (340 MHz) with the aid of signal equalization.

Innovation in HDMI connectivity is, of course, a good thing. It ensures HDMI equipped AV equipment and cables will support the newest, most exciting advances in HDTV and Home Theater technology, from 1080p video with 12-bit Deep Color? to lossless uncompressed Dolby® True HD or DTS-HD? surround sound.

Unfortunately, updates to the High Definition Multimedia Interface specification have also caused customer confusion, as well as performance incompatibilities between AV components and HDMI cables. While new HDMI cables are backwards compatible with early versions of the High Definition Multimedia Interface specification, first-generation HDMI cables generally do not have the bandwidth required for the most cutting-edge features in new HDTVs and HD sources.

While revisions to the HDMI specification ensure HDMI equipped components support the latest audio/video features on new sources and displays, they also can cause performance incompatibilities between components. Additionally, revisions to the HDMI specification can mean cables made just a few years ago are no longer up to date with current HD standards. HDMI 1.3a Category 2 cables, for example, support much higher data rates than early HDMI cables based on the original 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, and 1.2a specifications.

As a result, only HDMI 1.3a Category 2 cables take full advantage of the most advanced features on new sources and displays, such as 12-bit Deep Color, extended xvYCC color, and "lossless" compressed Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD? surround sound. Put another way: enthusiasts with HDMI cables based on the original 1.0 specs need to upgrade their HDMI cables to enjoy movies and games in Deep Color, compressed lossless sound, and more.

Monster Cable Performance Testing

HDMI cables require proper testing to ensure they can meet the data rate demands of higher definition components.

Monster has always conducted state-of-the-art testing on its cables, including eye pattern tests, the industry accepted method of testing the performance of HDMI cables. Monster also submit their HDMI cables for third-party verification by Simplay HD, the official testing and verification body for all High Definition Multimedia Interface products.

Monster has found that HDMI cable performance can vary widely, if cables are not designed and manufactured to strict standards. Many HDMI cables being sold do not meet actual HDMI cable specifications. Often cables are acceptable for 1080i video but not 1080p video, requiring double the amount of throughput. Often picture degradation and artifacts that have been attributed to displays and sources are actually caused by poor cable performance.

Monster tests 100% of its HDMI cables for quality so you know the cable will work when you install it. In addition to eye pattern testing, Monster performs extensive environmental and durability testing, twisting and pulling on the connectors, as an installer would, to make sure signal integrity is maintained even under stress.

Types of HDMI Cables:

- Standard HDMI cable

The standard HDMI cable is exactly what you'd expect. It carries high-definition video and audio from a source device to the monitor, TV screen, projector or similar display solution.

 - Standard HDMI cable with Ethernet

The name says it all here. The standard HDMI cable with Internet does everything that a standard HDMI solution - carrying HD video and audio between devices - while also serving as an Ethernet connection between those two devices. It is important to note that the devices at both sides of the connection need to be equipped with HDMI Ethernet Channel ports to make the solution work.

 - Standard automotive HDMI cable

This HDMI cable is designed to meet the unique signal requirements in automotive vehicles. These wires do not feature Ethernet functionality, but do handle audio and video transmission.

 - High speed HDMI cable

This is the cable to use when you want to support 4K resolutions, 3D movies or similar advanced features. The high speed HDMI cable is built to support these advanced technologies as well as deep color functionality.

 - High speed HDMI cable with Ethernet

Like before, the name tells you what you need to know. High speed HDMI cables with Ethernet provide everything you want from a high speed HDMI cable, but also give you the dedicated data channel.

The HDMI standard has been built with common-sense nomenclature, making it much easier to know what you are getting into when you invest in a cabling solution. At the same time, the diverse solutions on display within the HDMI framework are making the technology a cable of choice for a wide range of technology deployments.

PROS:

- This HDMI cable is capable of delivering a frame rate of up to 60/120HZ, along with 8-16 Bit Color. This translates to fluid, filmlike images and vivid, saturated, and gorgeous onscreen images. Cables with less bandwidth might deliver 4K UltraHD video, but will probably do so with 4K, 30/60Hz, 8-14 Bit Color--meaning you don’t get 100% of the UltraHD performance you paid for.

- This HDMI cable is suitable for tight computer workstations and around corners. This CI 3-rated cable is ready for easy in-wall installations.

- This ready for use cable can be conveniently used with your laptop or camera. Hence, it can keep up with HD needs, like hooking a Blu-ray player-equipped laptop to an HDTV.

- Increases bandwidth to 10.2Gbps (340Mhz)

- Offers support for 16-bit color, increased refresh rates (ex. 120Hz), support for 1440p/WQXGA resolutions

- Adds support for Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio standards

CONS:

- This is one of the best HDMI cables around, and is also one of the most expensive HDMI cables on the market.

Conclusion:

With all the various connections you can make to your TV, it’s hard to know if you’re getting the resolution that you paid for. Monster Cable's exclusive Performance Indicators show you the resolution being pushed to your display, whether it’s Standard Definition, High Definition, or 4K UltraHD resolution.

Monster Cable's gets the royal treatment with Monster’s very best technology. 24K gold contacts offer better signal transfer. Patented Monster V-Grip technology ensures cables don’t accidentally loosen. Aluminized Mylar and copper braid shielding prevent interference. Monster Cable's has all of this flagship Monster technology, and more. Plus their Cable for Life guarantee means if technology outpaces thier Monster Cable's, they will replace it.