How to make your own HDMI Cables - Page 2

Is it possible? Yes. Can it be done reliably? No, especially for long runs. It's hard enough getting factory-made cables to work. The splices will introduce signal 'reflections'.

But, it's a cool project. Nice job.

I think RapidRun and/or AudioQuest had some field-terminated HDMI connectors available, in the past, but I don't they're made anymore; might have something to do with HDMI licensing.

http://www.audioholics.com/news/indu...es-hdmi-cables

Edit - looks like BTX Technologies also offered/offers this field termination technology.

http://www.cepro.com/article/how_to_..._in_the_field/

Let this thread die PLEASE. It's insanity to attempt to make your own cables with tinny pins and burn ur fingers when perfectly good cables, neatly factory-made cables can be had for $10. U guys must have time to burn and/or make $5/hour.

HDMI cables are extremely difficult to make and requires expensive machinery. However, if you go to www.Cables.com, they can make you any length you need relatively cheap. I purchased a 40' HDMI from them for my laptop quite a few years back. The cable was only $39.99 + S&H, and it is a high quality cable. It works great on my laptop, my tablet, and my blu ray player. I have used it and dragged it around for about 4 or 5 years now and it stands up to abuse. The housing did move a little, but snapped right back on the connector and everything still works fine.

@KurtBJC - Can you clarify what you mean by "inconsistent twist rates"? If two twisted pairs have the same twist rates then the magnetic interference between the two pairs will increase over distance. By changing the twist rates, the magnetic interference between pairs is minimized. Right?

Haven't seen Kurt around for a while, so I will answer in case he doesn't see your question

Kurt was referring to a quality control issue, the twist rate not being consistent within a single pair. That affects the geometry of the pair. Impedance is a function of dielectric constant and geometry. Any difference from nominal affects impedance and thereby return loss degrading the signal.

Using different twist rates for different pairs in the same cable is one way to minimize crosstalk. However, it increases interpair skew.
Edited by Colm - 5/3/13 at 4:46pm