Splitting HDMI

[kemps12]

I've recently finished my basement and set up all my electronics (amp, dish box, blu ray, etc.) in the closet about 30 ft. from my main TV and nearly the same distance from my second TV.

My plan was to split the signal from my dish box so that I could watch on both TVs, I didn't want to pay for an additional satellite receiver box, since the 2nd TV is over the bar and will only be utilized for big games, etc.

I have run in to a problem however with splitting the signal, as the HDMI cables I ran are 40' long for both runs. I was told by Monoprice tech support that the best option would be to buy a different splitter/extender and use Cat 6 cables. Call me lazy, but my 40' HDMI cables are already run through the wall and the ceiling respectively, and I'd rather not redo that part, it sucked since the ceilings are dry walled (not my doing).

I was wondering if anyone has had success splitting two HDMI cables over similar runs in the past, and if so what splitter did they use. I was looking at one on Monoprice, they won't let me post the link since I don't have enough posts on here, but it's product #7522 to those familiar with Monoprice.

Some of the reviews for that splitter mention long runs, but not necessarily for both TVs, so I'm a little unsure. Any feedback is appreciated.

 

[kemps12]

More Info

I should also mention that the HDMI cables I'm using are 22AWG, which I figured would be strong enough for this application to work...somehow.

 

[macddmac]

I have used a monoprice splitter (1x4) with some success in the past using 50'/22awg cable. I would occasionally have to re- boot in order to get a good hand shake. The only issue that I've run into is terminating those heavy, stiff cables. They can play hell on the cheesy female ends on receivers and displays, so I use monoprice wall plates (which have sturdier connectors) and run short cables to the connected components.
Cheers, Mac

 

[kemps12]

Thanks Mac. i definitely know what you mean with those cables, they are no joke. Do you happen to know by chance which splitter you used/are using? Have a link or a product # by chance?

They seem to have a few options and then make them in all the different formats 1x2, 1x4, etc.

 

[BMXTRIX]

I used this with two long runs from the equipment rack to a TV at the front of a theater and the projector.

For only $41.72 each when QTY 50+ purchased - 1x4 Mini HDMI® Splitter w/ 3D Support | HDMI Powered & Passive 1 X 4 Splitters

It worked just fine for both in my installation. I've also used one from them which just didn't play nicely. I would go with the one I linked again though if I came upon a similar situation.

 

[Porschetech]

I have a beautiful component sized splitter by marantz for sale. It might work for what you're looking for. I used it for @ 6 months and its been in a box since. It's still like new

Hands-on with the Marantz VS3002 HDMI switcher -- Engadget

 

[macddmac]

I have the older version of what BMX recommended, slightly different form factor though
Model# is hs104
Cheers, Mac

 

[ImcLoud]

I went through this, ended up just getting a second box, I spent about $200 on matrix systems that would last anywhere between 2 weeks and 2 months... Spent anywhere from $59 to $130 and nothing lasted...

 

[BMXTRIX]

I went through this, ended up just getting a second box, I spent about $200 on matrix systems that would last anywhere between 2 weeks and 2 months... Spent anywhere from $59 to $130 and nothing lasted...

That's terrible. The product I listed above I purchased about a bit over a couple of years ago and it is still running strong for my client. Hope it keeps running for him.

 

[ssu]

HDMI extender

22AWG is a good size wire and should be ok for 40ft. If the picture drops out you can always try adding a HDMI Extender. Octava has a hdmi extender that can be remotely powered or powered with a dedicated power supply ( recommended). This unit is better than most since it recovers both the video/audio and also the DDC lines which most low end extenders ignore. DDC lines are important to ensure EDID are read properly at startup.