With the abundance of various cables and cords on the market, it can be difficult to determine which wires are right for your home or office setup. With HDMI cords alone, there’s a plethora of cable options. Even though HDMI cables are relatively easy to configure than most other cords, the range in costs, length, versions, and connectors can make the process of purchasing HDMI cables a bit intimidating for individuals with limited knowledge of different IT equipment. That’s why we created this comprehensive guide on what to consider when buying a high-speed HDMI cable.

CableWholesale’s team of tech representatives is dedicated to providing resources so you can make an educated purchase, whatever your network needs may be. Read on to explore the ins and outs of HDMI cables for your home, office, or wherever you need this versatile cord.

Considerations for Buying High-Speed HDMI Cables for Your Home or Office

Guarantee a satisfying purchase by making these considerations before making any kinds of investments in cables. By keeping the following factors in mind when on the hunt for high-speed HDMI cables, you minimize the risk of purchasing equipment that doesn’t quite successfully meet your demands.

HDMI 101: Understanding That It’s Digital

One noteworthy point you should acknowledge about HDMI cables is that they have a digital standard. This means that as long as the cable can function properly and is the right version for your setup, there should be no difference in performance between one that’s inexpensive and one that’s pricey. This differs from older analog standards that declare that the cable you purchase can make a huge difference, calling for cable users to make steeper investments in their cords.

The reason cost is not much of a factor to consider when buying a high-speed HDMI cable is that the data that they process is digital. Unless the HDMI cable has a physical hindrance, it should work to transmit digital video. Essentially, the cable will work, and the digital bits will get through, or it won’t work, and the bits won’t get through—price is an irrelevant factor to which will occur.

Despite the cost of an HDMI cable not making much of a difference in performance, there are still components of the cable that you ought to think about when buying one. Different factors between HDMI cables still influence whether it will work with your existing network elements.

Setting Standards: Checking for Adequate Build Quality and Reliability

Though the price tag doesn’t infer much on whether an HDMI cable is inherently good or bad, the way an HDMI cable is structured heavily influences its performance. That said, some cables are built to withstand greater use than others, which are likely to be sold at a higher price.

So, the build quality is impactful on determining an HDMI cable’s lifespan and can inform just how reliable your cable may be. One way to maximize your cable’s lifetime is by avoiding bending and moving it constantly.

Making Sure It Fits the Bill: Different Length Needs

It’s crucial to assess the length between connectors to determine the required length for your HDMI cable. One way you can achieve this is by running a string along the distance where your HDMI cord would go. Then, measure this string and add a little extra measurement so your cable isn’t pulled tight or doesn’t come up short.

If you plan to leave your HDMI cable unbothered after plugging it in, you don’t necessarily need an excess length, as that would only make cable management more difficult. Discover how to accommodate for a longer distance and more flexible setup in the next section.

Considering Longer Cable Runs for Your Network

Some setups, on the other hand, do require longer cables, whether that be to account for more flexibility or a longer distance between connectors. CableWholesale supplies 100-foot HDMI cable bundles to fit this need and cable management accessories to help organize any cable coiling that occurs.

Creating a Cohesive Unit: Reviewing HDMI Connector Type and Size

There are three main types of HDMI connectors:

• Standard
• Mini
• Micro

You’ll want to stick to one of these three when buying for your home or office, as Type E connectors are for automotive applications, and Type B and dual connectors are rarely used for everyday applications. Always be cognizant of the cable connectors on both ends, as some HDMI cables have different connectors on opposing ends to plug into various devices.

Deciding Between Straight or Right-Angled Connectors

In addition to selecting the right type of HDMI connectors, consider whether a straight or right-angled connector is for you. While straight connectors are most common, right-angled connectors are convenient for HDMI cables that get plugged into tight spaces, such as behind equipment or furnishing. This reduces the need for cable bending.

Evolution of HDMI: Recognizing the Different Versions of HDMI Cables

Cable manufacturers have evolved their HDMI cords over the years, leaving us with different versions of HDMI to choose from off the shelves. Each version has its own unique features that are worth reflecting on before making a cable selection, which we’ll discuss below.

Something that will be super influential over which HDMI version is right for you is noting which versions your existing equipment supports. When finding the right HDMI cable, be sure to check which applications the cable version supports.

The Difference in Versions of HDMI Cords: HDMI 1.4, 2.0, and 2.1

HDMI 1.4: This HDMI version’s inception dates over ten years old. HDMI 1.4’s specifications support 4K video at a maximum of 24 frames per second. There have since been evolutions of this HDMI version, though HDMI 1.4a and HDMI 1.4b are considered quite as dated. Manufacturers produce all HDMI cables with at least an HDMI 1.4 specification.

HDMI 2.0: Released in the early 2010s, HDMI 2.0 boosted HDMI cables’ bandwidths from 10.2 Gbps to 18 Gbps. This upgraded HDMI cables’ abilities to support 4K at up to 60 frames per second.

HDMI 2.1: This evolution of HDMI can transmit 4K and 8K video at up to 120 frames per second and resolutions above 8K, with a bandwidth of 48 Gbps. This design is intended for the highest-quality purposes, such as serious gaming setups and other entertainment systems.

With a better understanding of how to select the right HDMI cable, head on over to CableWholesale’s inventory of expansive HDMI products. Adapters, extenders, high-speed cables—we have everything you need to create a comprehensive setup at home or in-office. Contact a member of our team today to learn more about our well-performing products and ideal warranty.

Haphazard and cheap cabling is one of the first reasons why a company’s network isn’t performing up to par. Companies that want versatile cabling systems for their telephone and data communication needs have grown to love structured cabling systems. Their reliability and flexibility make them much easier for IT departments to navigate and troubleshoot, which in turn contributes to productivity. CableWholesale delves into each of the main components of forming a structured cabling system, in addition to how it works and the benefits of using one for your business.

What Is Structured Cabling and Why Does It Matter?

Structured cabling is essentially a hub for telecommunication components. It’s a building or campus used by companies to stow a variety of their smaller telecommunications elements called structured cabling subsystems. Structured cabling systems vary for a number of reasons. The following factors affect how each structured cabling system operates, though they’ll nearly always have the same selection of subsystems.

• The architectural features of the building that hosts the structured cabling system.
• The installation procedure for the structured cabling system, and the type of equipment installation requires for future expansion.
• Preexisting cabling materials and how they interact with newly implemented structured cabling equipment.
• Manufacturing warranties.
• The different functionalities of the structured cabling installation.

The Main Standards for Structured Cabling Systems

Structured cabling standards are essential to facility staff safety and quality performance of equipment. Without standards, cabling manufacturers and companies would not be held accountable for maintaining the quality of their products.

Standards keep cable design and installation consistent, ensure cables’ physical and transmission line requirements are met, support comprehensive cabling system expansion, and encourage dependable documentation. Learn which standards are used as a frame of reference for today’s cabling infrastructure.

ANSI/TIA/EIA-568

In the mid-1980s, ANSI (American National Standards Institute) delegated the TIA (Telecommunications Industry Association) with the task of creating cabling requirements within telecommunications. Come 1991, the first evolution of the Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling System was published.

This specification was known as both the TIA/EIA-568 and ANSI/TIA/EIA-568. The standard promoted a more unified structure for cabling systems, making them safer and more effective for an array of industries. It has since evolved for several purposes:

1. To support a greater vat of vendor applications
2. To provide design guidance for telecommunications equipment.
3. To offer a structured cabling system that supports voice and data.
4. To establish basic guidelines for structured cabling system layouts and technology.

ISO/IEC 11801

The ISO/IEC 11801 is the international standard. It helps regulate IT networks with structured cabling systems worldwide. Since the standards are universally considered, they’re reviewed for technical revision every five years. These routine revisions ensure the standard is up to date with all the newest cabling developments.

The reason section 11801 is significant is because it deals with commercial buildings. It outlines the standards for data, voice, video, and offers some basic guidelines for copper and fiber-optic cabling.

Standards and Cable Installation

Every IT professional who oversees the installation of a structured cabling system should abide by both ANSI/TIA/EIA-568 and ISO/IEC 11801 standards. From the physical installation to the cable configuration, the specialist should best align their procedure with that of the standards’ recommendations.

Adhering to these standards during installation is important because it makes the prospects of cabling system expansion feasible. Specialists who neglect the standards run the risk of having more complicated experiences why trying to troubleshoot or scale a system.

The Six Main Components of a Structured Cabling System

>The main components of forming a structured cabling system include entrance facilities, backbone and horizontal cabling, telecommunications and equipment rooms, and workstations. CableWholesale explores each subsystem in depth.

Entrance Facilities

A structured cabling system’s entrance facility houses connections between cabling inside and outside of the building. The equipment you’ll find at the entrance facility includes the network demarcation points, or the point at which a public telecommunications company’s network ends and your company’s private network begins.

A few other features found in the entrance facility include cables, connecting devices, protection equipment, and other materials that attach to the private or public network provider.

The Equipment Room

What may come as no surprise due to its name is that the equipment room is the designated space for complex equipment of the structured cabling system. Telecommunications systems, such as servers and switches, and termination devices for wiring systems are often placed here. Compared to the telecommunications room, the equipment room harbors much more complicated technology.

Backbone Cabling

Also referred to as vertical cabling, backbone cabling establishes connections between different rooms within the structured cabling system. The telecommunications room, equipment room, entrance facility, and access provider area are all reliant upon backbone cabling’s connection.

This type of cabling will cover much ground in any structured cabling facility. It can run all throughout the same floor, different floors, and has the potential to run between buildings. Because backbone cabling is asked to cover long distances, it’s best to opt for CableWholesale’s longest bundles of 100 ft Cat6 Ethernet cables for the job.

Telecommunications Area or Enclosure

In a closet or a room, your structured cabling system will need to place the rest of its telecommunications equipment. The size of your telecommunications room will depend on how much equipment, distribution frames, cross-connects, and cable terminations you need space for.

Horizontal Cabling

The system’s horizontal cabling lies between the workstations’ outlets and the horizontal cross-connect in the telecommunications room. Unsurprisingly, this cabling runs horizontal, either in the ceilings or beneath the floors. Like backbone cabling, horizontal cabling has some great demands as far as cabling distances.

Workstations or Areas

Workstations house all the end-user materials. So, think laptop, phone, computer—and pretty much any hardware that you’d need to get through your daily workload. Patch cables and communication outlets connect users with the network at large.

The Advantages of Using a Structured Cabling System for Your Business

So, after all this talk of structured cabling systems, what makes one worth it? CableWholesale explains the perks.

Structured Cabling Cuts Down on Downtime

Structured cabling systems are highly organized and labeled, which reduces downtime significantly. Because of their complexity, structured cabling systems typically have a greater resistance to interruptions as well.

Structured Cabling Is Amenable, Adaptable, and Scalable

Structured cabling can accommodate new equipment easily, enabling your company’s growth. The standards set in place make management, operation, and expansion a breeze.

Structured Cabling Is Easier To Manage and Highly Reliable

Structured cabling systems offer optimal telecommunication services for your business. Investing in a system is extremely cost-effective and promotes smoothly functioning technological operations.

When setting up the internet at home or in the office, many people have difficulty deciding between a wired or wireless connection. CableWholesale reviews the advantages and disadvantages of both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections so that you can determine which is better for your application. Read on to learn more.

Wi-Fi

The Advantages

• Flexibility: Wi-Fi allows users to connect from anywhere within the wireless LAN’s reach. Users are free to move around within the facility and still access the internet.
• Cost: Wi-Fi is typically cheaper to set up than wired connections.

The Disadvantages

• Security: Cybercriminals can easily penetrate Wi-Fi. You’re more likely to experience a breach of sensitive data on a wireless network than a wired one.
• Speed: Wi-Fi speed isn’t the most reliable. Weak signals, buffering, and disconnection can cause inconveniences and costly downtime.
• Reach: A building’s infrastructure can prohibit Wi-Fi signals from reaching pockets of your home or office. For example, concrete walls may interfere with the connection between a router and a device in another room.

Ethernet Connection

The Advantages

• Security: Since wired connections require physical attachments, only those with physical access to the network can gain its information. The chances of somebody hooking up their equipment and stealing info without anyone noticing are slim to none, especially with adequate security.
• Distance: Ethernet cables exist in various lengths and speeds, covering up to hundreds of feet. So, you can find an Ethernet connection for just about any distance you need to cover.
• Speed: While most Wi-Fi setups max out at one Gbps, Ethernet connection speeds can reach up to five Gbps.

The Disadvantages

• Cost: A high-quality Ethernet connection typically requires a steep investment. Upgrading wired networks can be expensive too. Fortunately, you can purchase Ethernet cables in bulk to cut down on equipment costs.

In Conclusion…

So, think about the differences between Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet connections and which is better for your application. Your choice will ultimately depend on your needs. If you’re looking to offer an internet connection in your public business, such as a coffee shop or bookstore, Wi-Fi will be a nice amenity for your guests.

However, if you’re setting up a network for your private business or household, Ethernet connections are the way to go because they’re safer and faster. Having quality equipment for your network will also ensure that your Ethernet connection remains reliable for data transmission.

CableWholesale supplies high-speed HDMI cables with Ethernet for people looking to get the greatest internet connection for entertainment, work, and anything in between. We have a broad selection of high-speed Ethernet cords to choose from as well, so you can create a suitable wired connection no matter what devices you use. Contact one of our tech professionals today to learn more about our products and impressive warranty.

Creating a complete entertainment setup, whether it be for gaming or movie purposes, can be a challenging task for folks who aren’t familiar with different cables and their functions. HDMI and VGA are two popular cables used for video purposes. CableWholesale explores the key differences between HDMI and VGA cabling systems by reviewing their pros and cons, helping you feel more confident when selecting equipment for your at-home setup.

Key Difference #1: Analog vs. Digital

VGA cables have an analog interface. Analog interface is a point-to-point connection between an output and input, with signal flowing in one direction. CableWholesale assesses the pros and cons of analog connection.

Pros

• Simple to configure and troubleshoot
• Highly reliable
• Signal transference does not have a delay or latency

Cons

• A cable’s electrical properties may impede the signal
• Susceptible to noise issues
• Multi-pair analog connection cables are heavy and costly

HDMI cables have a digital interface. Using a single cable, HDMIs transmit audio and video signals. We break down the pros and cons of digital interface in HDMI cables.

Pros

• Less vulnerable to noise than VGA cables
• One cable with two channels
• Input and output functions similarly to analog

Cons

• More difficult to troubleshoot
• Output digital signal is always latent to the input, causing unavoidable delay

Key Difference #2: Supporting Video vs. Video and Audio

Another significant difference between VGA cables and HDMI cables is that VGA only supports video formats, while HDMI supports both audio and video, making it a popular choice for entertainment devices. However, many servers still use VGA, which makes them highly effective for computer users.

After assessing the key differences of HDMI and VGA cabling systems, you can bulk buy VGA cables and HDMI cords through CableWholesale at a favorable price. We also offer different cable accessories, adapters, management resources to help you create a setup that’s safe, tidy, and efficient.

Many industries use both flat and round Ethernet cables for their applications. However, both types of cables have some advantages over the other that are worth considering if you need to narrow down your options. CableWholesale reviews the key difference between flat and round Ethernet cables to help you determine which is right for your application or whether you might want to invest both.

Flat Ethernet Cables

• Flat Ethernet cables are revered for the electrical quality of their conductors. When conductors remain parallel to one another, that quality remains constant, which is convenient for the user’s sake. The coveted balance that flat Ethernet cables provide is not often found in round cables.
• The structure of this type of Ethernet cable tends to be more high maintenance than round Ethernet cables since it doesn’t have as reliable of self-sustaining features against heat as round cords.
• Flat Ethernet cables typically have a reduced volume and weight when compared to round cables because they lack fillers or low-friction wires, which is beneficial for storage and installation purposes.
• Flat Ethernet cables are usually sold at a lower price than round wires.

Round Ethernet Cables

• Round cables produce much less heat than flat cables because of their build. They contain several layers of wires and additional components that aim to reduce internal heat.
• Round cables are very user-friendly, as they have a simple installation process, are flexible for tight spaces, and are super durable. Their flexibility and durability make them the popular choice for data center applications over flat Ethernet cables.
• These Ethernet cords have a higher uptime, or level of operational performance, than flat Ethernet cables.

CableWholesale has a variety of high-speed HDMI Ethernet cables to choose from, allowing you to reflect on the key differences between flat and round Ethernet cables and purchase your preference, or integrate the use of both for your network. You can refer to CableWholesale for other network, entertainment, or gaming setup needs, too, as we have an abundant supply of cable management, home theater, and gaming supplies. Contact us today to learn more about our diverse selection of high-quality cables and digital accessories.