How To Use An HDMI Splitter

HDMI cables come with great signal transfer strength. They transfer the video signals in high definition with a clear output. But this display feature is limited to one input and output source. What if you want multiple HDMI display outputs with a single input? Is this possible to split the HDMI port signal into multiple output ports to have the same display on multiple monitors or TVs? Yes, it is possible if you use an HDMI splitter. So in this article, we will describe how to use an HDMI splitter if you want to split the HDMI signals from one source device to two or more devices.

What is an HDMI splitter?

An HDMI splitter is an HDMI output device that splits the HDMI signals from the single HDMI input source. It has a splitter box with only one HDMI input port and multiple output ports so that you can have the same display of a single source on multiple devices. Suppose you want to enjoy the movie on multiple screens from a single computer or laptop. Then you can use the HDMI cable splitter to have the signal to multiple displays.

How does an HDMI splitter work?

An HDMI splitter takes the signal from one source HDMI signal device. It splits it into multiple output sources, which are then used as audio and video sources using HDMI cables. An HDMI splitter consists of an HDMI splitter box with one main HDMI input port on one side and several output HDMI ports through which multiple HDMI-supported devices are connected.

How to use an HDMI splitter?

1. 1. Run the HDMI cable through the laptop or signal source to the splitter input.
   2. Now connect the plug to the HDMI splitter power source if it’s a powered splitter.
   3. Connect HDMI cables of HDMI devices on which you want to have resolution through the splitter HDMI output port.
   4. Enable audio video output from your laptop if disabled to have a display.

Make the connections according to the image illustrated below. Once the connection is made, the splitter will replicate the signal onto multiple devices, including your Television or projector.

Difference between HDMI splitter and HDMI switch

HDMI SPLITTER

The HDMI splitter receives the signal from one device and splits the signal onto multiple devices or screens.

For Example: If you have a laptop and are watching a movie, and you want to display the movie on your TV and living room projector, then you can use a splitter to have the same display from one main device to several HDMI-supported devices.

HDMI SWITCH

The HDMI switch combines multiple signals from HDMI devices to one display device.

For example: If you have multiple cameras and want to share all their video images on one screen, you would use an HDMI switch. HDMI cables from all cameras are plugged into the HDMI switch input section. After that, you will use an HDMI cable to connect the switch’s HDMI output section and your display device.

Low display quality is due to HDMI cable or HDMI cable splitter.

The reason can be both HDMI cable or splitter. Sometimes a splitter may be a passive splitter. It has lower power input than required to support two devices or more. So always choose the best HDMI splitter for good video quality.

HDMI cables can also affect video quality. Sometimes the cable is broken or has a slow speed to function properly. If your device supports HDMI 2.1, you should use a version of HDMI cable instead of a normal 1.1 HDMI cable.

Best HDMI splitter to extend the display to multiple monitors.

So now you know how a splitter works, you may be searching for a good splitter to connect multiple TVs. OREI HDMI Splitter 1 in 2 Out 4K is one of them. It has many features, such as:

1. 1. • Fully Compatible with any HDMI 1.4/ 1.3/ 1.2 version, supports HDCP 1.4(NOTE: Will Not BYPASS HDCP), Easily Split Signal for devices with standard HDMI interface. Input: Computer, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS3, PS4 Pro Console, Fire Stick, Blu-Ray player, Satellite Receiver, Route Roku, Chromecast, PC, Projectors, etc. Output: Apple TV, HD-Ready, Full HD TVs, HD Monitors, Samsung TV, and more.
      • The heavy-duty cool metal enclosure protects the insides. It keeps the unit cool by aiding in quick heat absorption and dissipation. The operating temperature is 0°C ~ 40°C / 32°F ~ 104°F. Power Consumption (Max): 5W
      • OREI HDMI splitter allows full video format 3D, 4K x [email protected], 1080P @30hz, 1080P @60hz. Deep Color 4K @ 30Hz / 480i/ 576i/ 480p/ 576p/ 720p/ 1080i/ 1080p/ 1440i/ 1440p.

HDCP restriction from the source device

Many devices show HDCP restrictions when connecting them with an HDMI splitter. HDCP means high bandwidth digital content protection is a system designed to protect copies of video content so there can be no theft or piracy. But somehow, it becomes teasing in certain conditions, even when trying to have multiple displays. So to avoid this restriction, disable HDCP restriction from your device’s HDMI system settings. After that, you can have multiple streams of HDMI signals on two or more sources.

HDMI splitter not working solution to queries

Sometimes the HDMI splitter won’t work due to various issues. There are some issues described under which you have solutions.

Cable not supported:

There are different types of HDMI cables in the market, each with its own specifications. Your HDMI splitter will support a specific type, or your source device will support a specific one. So to tackle the situation, use the supported cables.

1. 1. • If your splitter is designed to support 4K resolution, the first thing is to check the cables. Whether the cables you are using are 4k supported or not.
      • Some cables won’t support HDR, and a high refresh rate can lead to a blurry or laggy display. So use the specific cable with supported features.
      • Check your source device features to see if it supports a 4k display. Use HDMI cable 1.4 or higher for a brilliant experience.
      • Some cables are not HDCP compatible. So use such cables that are HDCP compatible. Older cables usually do not have this feature.

Signal loss due to cable length:

Signal loss due to cable length is a major cause of signal loss. Connecting devices with longer HDMI can result in signal loss. The best way to tackle this situation is:

1. 1. • Use short cables.
      • Align your setup so that your devices are close to the splitter.
      • Use an HDMI extender if you use an HDMI cable more than 10 ft in length.

Low-powered HDMI splitter:

Your HDMI splitter needs sufficient power to work properly. If the power is low, it will result in a laggy display or blurry display. If you are using a splitter to make more than two connections, make sure it comes with a power supply.

Firmware update:

Whenever you are trying to connect devices, make sure to check that your input and output devices are both updated. Manufacturers release regular updates of their devices. If your splitter is not working, you may update the firmware of your laptop and TV. Changing ports may also resolve your issue in some conditions.

Conclusion

Using an HDMI splitter is a best practice to have the same screen on multiple displays. Make sure to follow the exact procedure for a smooth connection. If you have any queries, please let us know in the comments.

FAQS

Q: Does HDMI 1.4 support HDCP conditions?

A: Yes, HDMI 1.4 and HDMI 2.0 both support HDCP.

Q: How do you use an HDMI splitter for dual monitors?

A: Plug the HDMI cables from monitors into the output ports of the HDMI splitter. Then connect the HDMI cable from your computer to the splitter’s input port.

Q: Do I need two HDMI ports to connect two computer monitors?

A: It’s not necessary to have two HDMI ports. You can use an HDMI splitter if you don’t have two HDMI ports on your computer to connect two monitors on your computer

Q: Is it possible to use an HDMI switch as an HDMI splitter?

A: An HDMI switch has only one output, whereas a splitter has multiple outputs, so you can’t use a switch as a splitter.

Q: Do all HDMI splitters support 4k?

A: Most modern splitters support 4k, but you have to look for such splitters that support 4k. It’s also necessary to use cables that support 4k signal transfer while using 4k HDMI splitters.