HDMI control, technically known as High-Definition Multimedia Interface Consumer Electronics Control (HDMI-CEC), is a feature that allows mulitmedia consumer products to communicate and exchange information with each other over the HDMI cable.
Understanding HDMI Control (HDMI-CEC)
At its core, HDMI control provides a way for devices connected via HDMI – like TVs, Blu-ray players, soundbars, gaming consoles, and streaming devices – to speak to one another. This communication facilitates various levels of control between the connected equipment, reducing the need for multiple remote controls and simplifying the user experience.
The reference clarifies that the standard enabling this functionality is the High-Definition Multimedia Interface Consumer Electronics Control (HDMI-CEC), which specifically "allows mulitmedia consumer products to communicate and exchange information with each other". This communication is sent over a dedicated channel within the HDMI cable.
How HDMI Control Works
Each HDMI-CEC enabled device connected to a TV can register itself and become part of a connected network of devices. The TV usually acts as the central hub. Commands are sent back and forth along the HDMI cable, enabling one device to control aspects of another.
For instance, pressing "play" on a Blu-ray player's remote can tell the TV to automatically switch to the Blu-ray player's input and the soundbar to turn on and handle the audio.
Practical Examples of HDMI Control
HDMI-CEC enables several convenient features commonly found in home entertainment systems:
- One Remote Control: Control basic functions (like volume, play, pause, power) of multiple devices using just one remote (often the TV remote).
- System Standby: Turning off one device (e.g., the TV) can automatically turn off other connected devices (like a soundbar or streaming box).
- System Audio Control: Allows you to control the volume of a connected audio system (like a soundbar or AV receiver) using your TV's remote.
- Automatic Input Switching: When you start playing content on a connected device (like a gaming console or Blu-ray player), the TV can automatically switch to that device's input.
- One Touch Play: Turning on a source device (like a streaming stick) can automatically turn on the TV and switch to its input.
Benefits of Using HDMI Control
Enabling HDMI-CEC offers significant benefits for your home theater setup:
- Convenience: Streamlines operation with fewer remotes.
- Simplified Setup: Devices can interact automatically without complex manual configuration.
- Integrated Experience: Creates a more seamless and user-friendly entertainment system.
Compatibility and Enabling
It's important to note that while HDMI-CEC is a standard feature of HDMI since version 1.3, support and implementation can vary between manufacturers. Each manufacturer often gives it a different marketing name (e.g., Anynet+ for Samsung, Bravia Sync for Sony, Simplink for LG, Viera Link for Panasonic, RIHD for Onkyo, CEC for Sharp). For HDMI control to work, the feature must be supported and enabled on all connected devices you wish to control or be controlled. You typically find the option to enable it in the settings menu of your TV and other connected devices.
