Silicon Line GmbH, a specialist in optical link technology for consumer and commercial applications, has launched its HDMI 2.1 active optical cable modules sampling program for OEMs and 8K TV manufacturers.
Silicon Line notes that it has played an active role in the HDMI Forum's Test Subgroup which is working to incorporate active optical technology and other technologies into the final compliance test specification (CTS) for cables.
The Silicon Line HDMI 2.1 modules support all features of the standard's latest spec, including 48 Gbps bandwidth, eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) and a reduction in video latency for gaming consoles. In addition, the upcoming HDMI 2.1 compliant cables powered by Silicon Line's modules offer the distinct advantage of not requiring external power (which the company contends is absolutely unique in the market) and are backwards compatible in supporting the previous HDMI 2.0 and HDMI 1.4 specifications.
In addition to extensive laboratory research, Silicon Line notes that it has field-tested its modules through its regular participation in HDMI plugfests, where engineers have been able to evaluate the modules with more than 100 combinations of next-generation sources and display products. The company is therefore confident the HDMI 2.1 modules will be in full and speedy compliance shortly after the CTS is released.
Ruud van der Linden, CEO, Silicon Line, says this provides a great opportunity for cable manufacturers and partners to accelerate their time to market.
"Our HDMI 2.1 active cable modules sampling program enables our partners to order our modules now with a high level of confidence that they are getting a head start on being able to deliver fully compliant cables to the market once the Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable Certification Program for Category 3 HDMI cables will be operational," said van der Linden.
He added that the HDMI 2.1 cable market will undoubtedly be very competitive, and those partners securing this crucial component early for evaluation and implementation will have a significant time-to-market advantage.
"Active optical cables are going to be a much larger part of the HDMI 2.1 ecosystem due to limitations in terms of length and diameter of copper cables and the need for consistent and reliable performance," concluded Silicon Line's van der Linden.
For more information on Silicon Line's HDMI 2.1 compliant modules, or to place orders for samples, visit https://www.silicon-line.com/modules.html or contact Jerome Py, CMO and Optical Modules Business Unit Head, at [email protected] or +49 89 546 3700 118.