HDMI Multimedia Switch

HDMI switches are hardware devices that allow you to connect multiple HDMI source devices to a single HDMI input on a display. This can be particularly useful if you have a display with limited HDMI inputs but several source devices (like game consoles, Blu-ray players, cable or satellite boxes).

In 2007, Fairchild Semiconductor's high-definition multimedia interface switch was selected by XOCECO for use in its new 42-inch LCD TV. The manufacturer chose the HDMI switch for its industry-leading protection features, high-bandwidth and low power consumption. Another selection factor was Fairchild's HDMI pre-testing support that resulted in the XOCECO TV easily attaining HDMI certification. "Fairchild's FSHDMI04, with intra-pair skew of 55pS typical (under 1.65Gbps), high 8kV ESD performance and low quiescent current consumption of only 1uA max, was integral in helping our LCD TV pass the stringent HDMI tests that led to our certification," said Mr. Lin of XOCECO. "In addition to providing us with advanced switch technology, Fairchild provided a pre-compliance testing lab in Shanghai that prepared us to pass the rigorous HDMI test at the authorized testing center on our first attempt." When used in media systems with dual interfaces, the HDMI multimedia switch allows the application to connect to two other video sources such as DVDs, game consoles and set-top boxes. By offering HDMI functionality in a single device, designers could easily add a second HDMI input to the circuitry of their existing application.

How HDMI switches work

1. Connecting the Devices: Each of your HDMI source devices will connect to an input port on the HDMI switch. The HDMI switch will then connect to your display via a single HDMI cable from its output port.
2. Selecting the Source: HDMI switches will have some method of selecting which source is active. This could be a physical button or switch on the device itself, a remote control, or even an automatic function that switches to the source which is currently powered on.
3. Signal Transmission: Once a source is selected, the HDMI switch will transmit the audio-visual signal from that source to your display. Only one source will be displayed at a time, but you can easily switch between sources as desired.
4. Support for Features: Modern HDMI switches should support all the features of your HDMI devices, such as 4K resolution, 3D video, High Dynamic Range (HDR), and various audio formats.

The quality of the HDMI switch can affect the signal quality. High-quality switches should not degrade the signal, while low-quality ones might. Also, the HDMI switch should be compatible with the HDMI version that your devices use for best results. HDMI switches simplify the management of multiple devices, eliminating the need to constantly plug and unplug cables when you want to switch between sources.