Podcast #885: HDMI 2.1

After reading Robert’s email we thought it might be a good idea to review the HDMI 2.1 specification will everyone. The following information and more is available at HDMI.org. HDMI® Specification 2.1 is the most recent update of the HDMI specification and supports a range of higher video resolutions and refresh rates including 8K60 and 4K120, and resolutions up to 10K. Dynamic HDR formats are also supported, and bandwidth capability is increased up to 48Gbps.

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Today's Show:

News:

• It looks a lot like Amazon wants to hide Alexa inside your web router
• Google Home gets Apple Music support
• Disney reportedly in talks to buy AT&T’s stake in Hulu

Other:

• Hands-on: LG 2019 4K & 8K OLED TVs (& technical information)
• HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) and eARC explained
• LG 4K OLED TV End-Of-Year Specials Revealed
• How Often Do You Replace Your TV?

HDMI 2.1

After reading Robert’s email we thought it might be a good idea to review the HDMI 2.1 specification will everyone. The following information and more is available at HDMI.org. HDMI® Specification 2.1 is the most recent update of the HDMI specification and supports a range of higher video resolutions and refresh rates including 8K60 and 4K120, and resolutions up to 10K. Dynamic HDR formats are also supported, and bandwidth capability is increased up to 48Gbps.

Supporting the 48Gbps bandwidth is the new Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable. The cable ensures high-bandwidth dependent features are delivered including uncompressed 8K video with HDR. It features exceptionally low EMI (electro-magnetic interference) which reduces interference with nearby wireless devices. The cable is backwards compatible and can be used with the existing installed base of HDMI devices.

HDMI Specification 2.1 feature highlights

• Higher video resolutions support a range of high resolutions and faster refresh rates including 8K60Hz and 4K120Hz for immersive viewing and smooth fast-action detail. Resolutions up to 10K are also supported for commercial AV, and industrial and specialty usages.

• Dynamic HDR support ensures every moment of a video is displayed at its ideal values for depth, detail, brightness, contrast and wider color gamuts—on a scene-by-scene or even a frame-by-frame basis.

• The Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable supports the 48G bandwidth for uncompressed HDMI 2.1 feature support. The cable also features very low EMI emission and is backwards compatible with earlier versions of the HDMI Specification and can be used with existing HDMI devices.

• eARC simplifies connectivity, provides greater ease of use, and supports the most advanced audio formats and highest audio quality. It ensures full compatibility between audio devices and upcoming HDMI 2.1 products.

• Enhanced refresh rate features ensure an added level of smooth and seamless motion and transitions for gaming, movies and video. They include:

  • Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) reduces or eliminates lag, stutter and frame tearing for more fluid and better detailed gameplay.

  • Quick Media Switching (QMS) for movies and video eliminates the delay that can result in blank screens before content is displayed.

  • Quick Frame Transport (QFT) reduces latency for smoother no-lag gaming, and real-time interactive virtual reality.

• Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) allows the ideal latency setting to automatically be set allowing for smooth, lag-free and uninterrupted viewing and interactivity.

Version 2.1 of the HDMI Specification is backward compatible with earlier versions of the Specification and is available to all HDMI 2.0 Adopters.

Some Observations:

• The specification does not indicate a cable length. Cable length depends on the cable manufacturer. It is likely the maximum lengths for passive cables will be approximately 2 to 3 meters.

• Manufacturers may or may not be able to enable Dynamic HDR with a firmware upgrade. This is manufacturer specific

• eARC requires HDMI High Speed Cables with Ethernet and the new Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable.

• Generally speaking, eARC will not be upgradable via a firmware update. Check with the manufacturer of your product to confirm.

• eARC will support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X as well as previous audio formats.

Download Episode #885