Gefen intros v1.3-compliant 1:10 HDMI Distribution Amplifier and 1:5 HDMI Splitter
By Darren Murph 
posted Feb 11th 2008 1:15AM
posted Feb 11th 2008 1:15AM
Two New Distribution Solutions from Gefen Deliver 1080P for HDMI v1.3
CHATSWORTH, CA – Gefen's newest solutions engineered to support the expanded HDMI v1.3 format include a 1:5 Splitter for HDMI v1.3, and a 1:10 HDMI v1.3 Distribution Amplifier.
The Gefen 1:5 Splitter for HDMI v1.3 accepts one audio/video input, such as a DVD player or set top box, and transmits the same signal to five displays. The 1:10 HDMI v1.3 Distribution Amplifier transmits one HDMI source to ten displays. Both units can accommodate larger distributions when "daisy chained" with another splitter.
For optimal and consistent results, the source and destination displays' resolutions should match. All high definition resolutions are supported from 480p up to 1080p.
Both solutions enable a clean, simultaneous distribution of one high definition audio/video signal to multiple HDMI displays. The instant delivery of HDCP-compliant video to several displays is desired in entertainment venues, public spaces, clubs, restaurants and event facilities offering a cutting-edge delivery of HDTV.
The expanded HDMI v1.3 format allows for optional color and audio refinements along with an increased bandwidth that ensures the highest signal quality possible from high definition video delivered using HDMI.
The Gefen 1:5 Splitter for HDMI v1.3 and the 1:10 HDMI v1.3 Distribution Amplifier are both rack mountable and currently available for pre-order at Gefen.com.
Resellers are located on most major continents and listed here:
http://www.gefen.com/dealers/worldmap.jsp
1:10 HDMI v1.3 Distribution Amplifier:
http://www.gefen.com/kvm/product.jsp?prod_id=5023
1:5 Splitter for HDMI v1.3:
http://www.gefen.com/kvm/product.jsp?prod_id=5244
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About Gefen:
Gefen delivers advanced technologies with multi-platform extension, switching, distribution and conversion capabilities. Gefen equipment is valued around the world in professional A/V, information technology and consumer electronics/home theater environments. Their add-on hardware maximizes functionality by enabling systems to operate beyond their original capabilities. A selection of high quality cabling is also available. Visit www.gefen.com for detailed product information.
$500+ for an HDMI switcher? Bah, I just checked out a switcher from Monoprice that's 1.3 compliant for less than $100!
It's not a switcher but a splitter. With a switcher you can only output to one display at a time (a,b,c or d). With this you can output to several tv's at the same time. I imagine this type of device will eventually replace units such as RF modulators for people trying to feed several TV's from one source. I will wait for future pricing and just keep using my rf modulator for now.
Not only did you get the equipment type wrong, you got the market wrong too. Gefen looks like a specialty company mostly serving a niche in commercial installations. In commercial installations, they shouldn't be using cheap consumer devices if they can avoid it. It looks to me that Gefen is a pretty solid commercial grade device, with a steel enclosure and rather than a cheap plastic shell, and their products have serial control too.
Plus, there's probably no consumer market for a 5:1 or 10:1 splitter, not only no competition, there's no chance for economies of scale of a consumer market either.
Ooooh hellz yeah!