Updated September 27, 2019: Today’s audio-video installation is complex. The number of routable sources can cause pitfalls. The number of connectors, sources, and lengths can make a person pull their hair out.
That’s why it’s important to use the right distribution of products. Here are some handy solutions from CE labs for A/V integrators that will help keep things organized and updateable—especially when planning upscale home theater systems or commercial-grade installations.
Simply put, a distribution amplifier takes one source and feeds it to multiple outputs. Amplification keeps the signal strength strong over the entire length of each output’s cabling run. CE labs offer amplifiers for HDMI and composite cabling.
Some of the HDMI distribution amps are Ultra HD, 3D or even 4K compatible, while all feature cable retention brackets and are cascadable for more elaborate setups. They’re also compatible with differing HDMI resolutions and signal processing variables. Component distribution amps are daisy-chainable for larger displays. Even composite amps are capable of loops and cascades.
These amps are not designed to talk to multiple cabling formats. So if there’s a need to up-convert older tech so it will interface with a new system, CE labs offer format converters and scalers that can be added into the system on either side of the amp.
Extender kits convert audio or video signals from unbalanced to balanced or vice versa. It adjusts the impedance between different kinds of wiring.
Ideal for indoor use, extender kits are a cheaper way to run signals because they use lesser expensive CAT-5, CAT-5e or CAT-6 cable instead of coaxial cable. They also allow for a longer signal run. So save the stiffer, more insulated, heavier, and a good deal more expensive coaxial cable for outdoor or underground use. Use extenders and CAT cabling instead.
For homes already wired with CAT-5e or 6, using extenders is a no-brainer. Just connect one at each end of the cable run then connect the cabling to the source and destination equipment. These CAT-6 extender kits transmit HDMI and/or 4K signals by using a transmitter and receiver setup. Unlike passive balun, they do require power.
Even the simplest home theater now has many components. Commercial-grade systems are even more complicated. Custom installers must be prepared to integrate a vast array of electronics to meet their customers’ requirements.
CE labs has been specializing in engineering research and development of state-of-the-art technology for over 25 years. Their A/V distribution products have withstood the most rigorous and demanding applications. Your installations will benefit from the top-end technology from CE Labs and Petra!