Show Me the Next-Generation HDMI

Early versions of HDMI (version 1.2 and below) clocked their serial links at 165 MHz, giving the connection a total capacity of 4.95 Gbps. When the HDMI 1.3 specification was introduced in 2006, its optional 340 MHz system clock rate doubled the link’s maximum capacity to 10.2 Gbps. To put some perspective on this enormous bandwidth, it only takes 2.23 Gbps to support a 1080i, 8 bits/color HDTV display running at a 60 Hz frame refresh rate.

The HDMI serial data stream is segmented into packets that allow it to encapsulate nearly any digital media format including standard, enhanced, or high-definition video, multi-channel digital audio and control information on a single cable. Video data is always transmitted in an uncompressed format, complete with horizontal and vertical blanking intervals. The video blanking intervals (Data Island Periods) are used to transmit audio data, which can consist of any compressed, non-compressed, PCM, single or multi-channel formats and control information. The audio formats include the new DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD formats used by Blu-ray media players.

The HDMI market can be divided into four key segments:

• Digital Home: This established, stable market is HDMI’s “home turf”, where it enjoys 90-95% penetration in audio/video recorders, DTVs, set-top boxes, game consoles and home entertainment devices.
• Portable Multimedia: This growing market includes cameras (still and video) and portable media players where the number of ports shipped per year is currently at a 33% CAGR. Much of HDMI’s success in this market is due to the smaller Type C connectors introduced by the HDMI 1.3 specification. Now, the Type D micro HDMI connector introduced with the 1.4 specification is making it an attractive option for mediaenabled mobile phones.
• Industrial Applications: HDMI’s high bandwidth and ability to support virtually any audio or video protocol has helped it earn a dominant position in digital signage, as well as high-end video projectors used in business/commercial and even so-called “prosumer” applications.
• PC/Laptop Equipment: HDMI has penetrated into the laptop and graphic cards market, but its adoption in this market is slowed somewhat due to competition from the DisplayPort interface.

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