What is HDBaseT?

HDBaseT is a revolutionary technology that has transformed the professional audiovisual (AV) industry by simplifying and enhancing how multimedia is transmitted. It offers an all-in-one solution for distributing ultra-high-definition (UHD) audio and video, Ethernet, USB, control signals, and power over a single standard Category cable for distances of up to 100 meters (328 feet).

The Power of HDBaseT

Performance: HDBaseT is the only technology capable of distributing uncompressed UHD audio and video over long distances, point-to-point, or through daisy-chaining, all with zero latency. This makes it ideal for real-time, high-quality applications like video conferencing, digital signage, and home theatre systems.
Convergence: HDBaseT’s hallmark 5Play™ solution consolidates five key functionalities—uncompressed UHD audio and video, USB 2.0, Ethernet, control signals (e.g., RS-232, IR), and power—into a single cable. This unique feature reduces cable clutter and lowers installation costs by simplifying AV infrastructure.
Simplicity: The technology is designed for plug-and-play usability, making it accessible even to non-technical users. Its reliance on standard, field-terminated Category cables eliminates the need for proprietary or specialized wiring, streamlining installations in both residential and professional settings.
Interoperability: HDBaseT adheres to strict standards that ensure any two HDBaseT-supported devices, regardless of manufacturer, will work together seamlessly. This interoperability allows installers and users to choose from a wide array of compatible devices without compatibility concerns.

HDBaseT Standard Specifications

Since its introduction in 2010, HDBaseT has set the benchmark for innovation in the AV market. Each iteration of the standard has enhanced its capabilities while maintaining backward compatibility, ensuring that any two HDBaseT devices can operate at their highest common feature set.

HDBaseT 1.0 (2010)

The first version introduced the groundbreaking 5Play™ feature set, enabling the long-range extension of UHD audio and video, 100 Mbps Ethernet, control signals, and up to 100 watts of power over a single Category cable.

Recommended Cables: Cat5e (minimum), Cat6 (preferred).
Supported Distances:
– 1080p video up to 100m (328 ft.).
– 4K video up to 70m (230 ft.) over Cat5e and up; 100m (328 ft.) with select Cat6a.

HDBaseT 2.0 (2013)

Building on the success of HDBaseT 1.0, version 2.0 expanded capabilities to include:

Enhanced Resolution: UHD 4K@30 4:4:4 and 4K@60 4:2:0 up to 100m (328 ft.) over Cat6.
USB 2.0 Extension: Added to the 5Play™ set for improved interactivity.
Fiber Optic Support: Enabled even longer distances for large-scale installations.
Cable Recommendations: Cat6 for optimal performance, with extended compatibility for Cat5e.

HDBaseT 3.0 (2019)

The latest and most advanced version of HDBaseT delivers unmatched performance and features:
• Uncompressed UHD Video: Fully uncompressed 4K@60Hz 4:4:4 video up to 100m (328 ft.).
• Gigabit Ethernet: Upgraded from 100 Mbps to full-duplex Gigabit speeds.
• Improved Cable Recommendation: Category 6a U/FTP cables are recommended to fully realize its potential.

Applications of HDBaseT

The versatility of HDBaseT has made it a go-to solution for a wide range of industries and applications, including:

Corporate Environments: Simplified AV setups for conference rooms and training centers.
Education: Reliable distribution of multimedia content in lecture halls and classrooms.
Healthcare: High-quality transmission of medical imaging and control systems.
Residential: Streamlined home theatre and automation systems.

Why Choose HDBaseT?

HDBaseT’s unique combination of performance, convergence, simplicity, and interoperability makes it a cornerstone of modern AV infrastructure. Its ability to transmit uncompressed UHD video and audio, alongside control signals and power, sets it apart from competing technologies. Whether you’re designing a home theatre, outfitting a corporate boardroom, or implementing digital signage, HDBaseT delivers the reliability and quality that professionals demand.