subject: What is the Purpose of Flat HDMI Cables? [print this page] When it comes to shopping for HDMI cables, it is not as simple as finding one at the lowest price. There are different styles of HDMI cables, including flat versions. What is the reasoning behind this style of cable? Most of the cables you currently have around your house are probably round in shape rather than flat, so what is all the hype about?
One of the reasons why manufacturers decided to create a flat HDMI cable is because it eliminates the crosstalk that may be encountered with a round cable. This refers to interference caused by internal wires wrapping and crossing over one another. This cannot occur in flat HDMI cables because the internal structures are laid flat across the width of the cable. Some will suggest this gives you a better picture quality, but unless you are a home theatre buff, you may not see much of a difference.
Other than an arguable picture quality improvement, there are other advantages to using a flat HDMI cable for your at-home HD experience. Overall, these cables are easier to work with than their round counterpart, and here are a few examples. First, it bends more easily for sharp turns behind an entertainment system, making it easier to install into and along walls. It is also easier to fit behind a wall-mounted HDTV. Since it can bend easier, a flat HDMI cable can be wrapped tighter and flatter, preventing it from bulging out from behind your television. As far as making a professional appearance in your entertainment system, a flat cable is the best for tucking behind baseboards and remaining hidden. It is also easier to paint in order to blend in with the wall when you run it along the baseboards. On this same note, it also runs beneath carpet without creating an unsightly bump.
Using a flat HDMI cable comes down to the level of convenience it creates for the user. While an improved picture is possible because of the lack of crosstalk within the cable itself, the biggest reason to choose this kind of cable instead of the traditional round model is to make installation easier and the appearance of your home theatre system better. Plus, since prices are comparable, why not invest in flat HDMI cables to get the best experience out of your home entertainment system? There is no reason to regret your decision to make this kind of investment.
