View this article at: http://www.electronista.com/articles/08/08/11/hd.signal.300m.on.cat.5/
Monday, Aug 11, 2008 8:10pm
Gefen system sends HD signa...
Connectivity solutions company Gefen recently introduced three new systems integrators for audio/video systems using the component video format. The new products allow a full HD signal to be carried on a CAT-5 cable distances up to 300 meters. This is ideal for large scale home entertainment systems, digital signage applications and high profile audio/video installations. All three products perform two functions from a single box, reducing the need for extra equipment.

The '4x4 Component Audio over CAT5 Matrix' solution directly connects any four component video sources to any four displays. Audio inputs/outputs support either analog or digital signals. Individual receivers at each display connect back to the source using just one CAT-5 cable. Additional remote receivers are available, allowing matrix switching for up to 8 devices. Paired with an optional extender, the signal can be sent up to 300 meters.

Gefen also introduced two distribution amplifiers that allow component audio/video signals to be split. The '1:2 Component Audio over CAT5' splits an input into two, while the '1:4 Component Audio over CAT5' splits the input into four. Both splitters retain HD quality and are compatible with analog or digital audio output.

The 4x4 Component Matrix switcher and 1:4 Component Audio splitter both sell for $800. The 1:2 Component Audio splitter sells for $500.