Why Do We Need Extenders?

Why Do We Need Extenders?

It is fundamental to solving a common challenge in professional audio-visual setups: getting signals (like video, audio, or control data) from one place to another when distance or physical barriers are involved.

In simple terms, extenders are devices that allow you to transmit AV signals (like HDMI for video/audio, USB for data, or even Ethernet) over much longer distances than standard cables can reliably handle. Here’s why they’re necessary:

1. Distance Limitations of Standard Cables:
   • HDMI cables, for example, start losing signal quality after about 25 feet (8 meters) due to their high-frequency, high-density nature. Beyond that, you might get flickering video, audio dropouts, or no signal at all.
   • USB cables also have a limit—typically around 16 feet (5 meters)—before the signal degrades.
   • Extenders overcome these limits by boosting or converting the signal to travel much farther, often up to 100s of feet (e.g., 70m/230ft for 1080p or 40m/130ft for 4K with some HDBaseT extenders).
2. Flexibility in Installation:
   • In ProAV setups—like conference rooms, classrooms, or live events—source devices (e.g., a Blu-ray player, laptop, or camera) are often far from displays (e.g., projectors, TVs, or monitors). Running a short HDMI cable isn’t practical when you’re dealing with walls, ceilings, or large spaces.
   • Extenders let you use more affordable and widely available cables (like Cat5e/6 Ethernet cables) to bridge those distances, which are easier to install and manage.
3. Signal Integrity:
   • Extenders don’t just push signals farther; they help maintain quality. For instance, they can prevent issues like HDCP handshake problems (a common headache with HDMI) or signal noise, ensuring crisp video and clear audio at the destination.
4. Added Functionality:
   • Many extenders go beyond just video and audio. They can carry additional signals like IR (infrared for remote control), RS-232 (for device control), Ethernet (for network access), or even power (via PoC—Power over Cable). This reduces the need for extra wiring and simplifies setups.
5. Real-World Scenarios:
   • Imagine a corporate boardroom where a laptop at the table needs to send 4K video to a projector mounted 50 feet away on the ceiling. An HDMI extender using HDBaseT technology can send that signal over a single Cat6 cable, along with power and control signals, without any loss.
   • Or in a live event, a camera’s feed might need to reach a control booth 100 meters away—extenders make that possible.

Extenders vs. Receivers: What’s the Difference?

You’re hearing "extender" and "receiver" together because they often work as a pair:

• Extender (Transmitter): This is the device at the source (e.g., your laptop or media player). It takes the signal (HDMI, USB, etc.), converts it into a format suitable for long-distance travel (often over Cat5e/6 or fiber optic cables), and sends it out.
• Receiver: This sits at the destination (e.g., the TV or projector). It takes the transmitted signal, converts it back to its original format (like HDMI), and outputs it to the display or speaker.

For example, on the INFOBIT landing page you mentioned (https://www.infobitav.com/category/extenders-connectivity/), products like the "iTrans E70C" HDMI extender use HDBaseT technology. The transmitter connects to your HDMI source, sends the signal up to 70 meters over a Cat5e/6 cable, and the receiver at the other end delivers it to your display. Some setups even include "loopout" ports for local monitoring or bidirectional IR for controlling devices remotely.

A Peek at the INFOBIT Page

Looking at that page, you’ll see extenders categorized by type:

• HDBaseT Extenders: Use Cat cables to send HDMI, audio, and control signals (e.g., up to 150m for 1080p).
• USB Extenders: Extend USB signals for cameras, keyboards, etc., up to 100m.
• Wireless Extenders: Send signals without cables (up to 100m in open spaces), great for temporary setups.
• Audio Extenders: Focus on sending audio signals over long distances (e.g., 300m for digital audio).

Each type addresses specific needs—whether it’s video in a meeting room, USB for a conference camera, or audio for a concert hall.

Why It Matters in ProAV

In professional AV, the goal is seamless, high-quality performance across complex setups. Extenders solve the logistical puzzle of distance and signal management, letting integrators and designers create systems that work reliably in real-world environments—without breaking the bank on custom ultra-long cables or compromising on quality.

🏢 Green Technology Engineering Co., Ltd. Bangkok, Thailand

Green Technology Engineering offers comprehensive consultation and turnkey design services for professional audiovisual (Pro AV) systems in Thailand. Our expertise covers everything from digital signage solutions—featuring video walls, LED displays, and direct-view LED screens—to fully integrated command room systems. With over 30 years of experience in the AV industry, we are committed to delivering tailored solutions that meet your specific needs and enhance your visual communication. Let us help you bring your vision to life with smart, reliable, and impactful AV designs.

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