How to Decide What Length HDMI Cable Need Buy

 
The High Definition Multimedia Interface protocol allows you to run one cable per component for high quality audio and video. While this eliminates much of the rat's nest of cabling normally associated with audio and video installations, you still need to take into account proper HDMI Cable length. Choosing the right cable length for your setup involves determining an acceptable comprise between signal quality, convenience and cost.
Measuring Distance
Step 1
Measure the distance between your source components and the receiver or processor performing HDMI switching. Add 18 inches to this length to account for pulling a component forward on the rack to examine the back panel if necessary. Pulling on or stressing an HDMI connector due to insufficient length may eventually cause the delicate internal connections to fail.
Step 2
Convert the measurement in inches to feet. Divide by 3.3 to determine the distance in meters. This is the measurement used on most cable packaging. For example, if the distance from your Blu-ray player to your receiver is 6 feet, you need a 2-meter HDMI cable.
Step 3
Repeat the process, measuring from your receiver or HDMI switcher to the television or projector in use. Remember to measure along the path required by the cable. If the cable travels up the wall 7 feet, then across the ceiling 12 feet, measure the same way. Add 15 percent to this length to ensure adequate cable length.
Step 4
Account for cable gauge. Select a 24-gauge HDMI cable if your total installed distance per cable excedes 5 meters. Below that, less-expensive 24-gauge cables suffice.
Extending Existing Installations
Step 1
Measure the distance from the source component to the receiver, television or projector you are trying to reach. Subtract the distance already covered by the installed HDMI cable.
Step 2
Slide the HDMI joiner to the end of the cable leading away from your component, receiver or switcher.
Step 3
Connect the HDMI extension cable to the other end of the joiner. Slide the free end into the destination component's HDMI port.
HDMI signals travel comfortably approximately 75 feet before experiencing intermittent performance. Many cables offer in-line boosters to regenerate the signal, preventing dropouts and poor performance.
Always select the newest version of HDMI Cables. Newer revisions enable features found in supporting components.