One type of splitter is a video signal booster.  The booster will allow the user to increase the distance between the two components without loosing signal quality.  Software is usually not required for this application; the user simply connects the desired devices to the box and plugs the signal booster box into a power source.  It is important to note when using this type of video cable splitter that extra long cables may need to be purchased, and the highest quality cables will be important to use to ensure quality and speed of signal.  Booster boxes may be available for a variety of signal types, include S-video to VGA, s-video to HDMI, s-video to component, or s-video shared with another s-video connection.  A price for the booster starts around $40, but does not include the cost of any needed cables.

A more advanced option is a multi-port splitter and extender with audio option as well.  The booster boxes are perfect for classroom, tradeshow, and demonstration applications and broadcast the computer audio and video simultaneously in up to four destinations.  In order to increase the number of desired output devices, a user may place the splitter/booster boxes in series similarly to adding extension cords to power strips.  Some multi-port splitters will come with cables included, and as the equipment is providing more ports prices are higher and generally start around $200.

While extending video signal over fifty feet can become expensive, most users find it advantageous to purchase a video cable splitter booster device.  When shopping, look for boosters that include the cables to reduce the needed start up cost.  Also, the cables included with the booster device are likely designed to work specifically over long range applications and will have the needed detents and double-shielded foil to secure a high quality signal.  When possible, also consider the flexibility of the cable.  The longer the distance cable is to be used, the more likely it is that cable will be stretched or contorted outside a traditional straight-ling configuration.  If the cable used is not flexible enough, it may damage when under these conditions and would need to be replaced.  If the splitter is to be consistently used in the same location, consider securing the cables to a wall or table to reduce the stress on the internal wires over time.  A good example of this is when a splitter is used at a conference room table to allow laptops to connect to the large flat screen television.  By running the cables under the table and securing them to ports built into the table, you can ensure a more attractive appearance and greater longevity to your devices.

First generation HDTV’s utilized a DVI, or Digital Video Interface, connection to connect with HD DVR’s, gaming systems, Blue Ray and HDDVD players.  However, as HD technology advanced a HDMI, or High Definition Multi-media Interface, became the norm.  One of the reasons for the changeover is HDMI connectors are much smaller than DVI options.  The DVI connector is almost identical to the VGA connectors used on computers after 1989, and the similarity was actually the reason for the initial implementation of DVI.  However, the HDMI connector is more similar to a USB device and mini-HDMI connectors are also available in some computers and notebook computers.  The decrease in the size of the port makes it much more manageable when attaching multiple devices and simplifies cord management.

A second advantage of using an HDMI connection is that both audio and visual signals can be carried over the same cable.  When using a DVI connection on a computer or television the user may have up to three mini-jack cables providing sound to the speakers and a fourth DVI connector to display the visuals.  However, a HDMI connection carries both audio and visual signals digitally simultaneously over one cable and greatly increases ease of use and installation.  However, most computers require video cable adapters paired with an audio converter box to access the graphics card and audio card outputs into a single steam.

HD application has also increased the demand for 30 or higher color-bit displays.  In older visual displays the human eye could not distinguish higher than 24-bit color processing, but with the advent of HD technology users can tell a difference between color depth and picture quality across the different bit ranges.  DVI is still limited to 24-bit color processing, whereas newer HDMI applications can process up to 48-bit colors with HDMI version 1.3.  For users currently on DVI, video cable adapters can work with existing equipment to bring picture quality to the higher standards now available.

The exciting news with the rise in HDMI is it is backwards compatible with DVI connections.  By connecting a cable adapter into the DVI port, the other end of the cord can be attached to HDMI output to view the signal with the benefits of the HDMI increased picture quality.  However, it should be noted this is only pertinent to the visual aspects of the signal carried over DVI; the audio signal will still need to be carried via a secondary cable unless the user elects to completely exchange the DVI port for an HDMI port or purchase a converter box.

Prices for adapters are generally low and start around $9.  Adapters can be located at most major electronics stores and through many different online specialty stores.  When selecting the adaptor for you consider also if any additional cabling is needed as these can often be purchased as a bundle pack for a reduced price.

A y-splitter indicates the cable has one male connector and two or more female connectors.  A male connector is the portion of the connection device which has pins or other protuberances that are inserted to the female connector to join the two components.  For example, all the ports on the back of a computer are female as they receive the male connectors from the keyboard, mouse, USB devices, etc.  As such, in order to split the VGA signal, multiple female connectors are needed.  When there are two female connectors, the overall shape is a Y, thus the name of the VGA Y splitter cable.

The most basic form of the y splitter is to allow multiple VGA input on one device.  This may be required when multiple monitors are to be used on one computer with either identical or unique displays on each monitor.  However, some newer computers come equipped with two VGA input ports and this is not required.  Generally the VGA to VGA cords can be shorter as the computer or laptop is likely to be within five feet of both VGA devices.  These cords can be purchased at most major electronics stores and at a variety of online specialty stores such as Tiger Direct and prices start around $4 depending on the length and quality.

A second type of VGA Y splitter cable is geared towards using different types of devices that utilize HDMI, S-Video, component or some other display type.  HDMI is user in some newer HD monitors as well as for HDTV applications; s-video and component are the types of output more commonly seen in older CRT televisions.  LCD projectors may have any of these types of output options depending on the maker for the projector.  The cable will have one male VGA connector, and either a combination of one VGA female connector and second-type connector or two female connectors neither of which are VGA.  Multi-use cords can be found in the same locations as the solely VGA cables, but prices are generally higher starting around $9.  Due to the applications multi-use cables are utilized for it is more common to need a longer length cord which will also increase the cord.

When purchasing a y splitter cable there are a few things to look for to ensure the quality of your cable.  Higher-end cables will offer gold plating on the contacts for maximum conduction; other quality amplifiers are double shielded foil insulation and the flexibility of the cable to reduce breaking.  In longer cables, detents or “stop clicks” will work to keep the signal from degrading over distance by ensuring signal integrity.

One reason a user may need the VGA signal split is to show the same display at multiple monitor locations.  This may be used to complete a sales presentation, training presentations, LCD projectors or to allow a larger display on a second device (such as a televison).  An additional reason the signal may need to be split is to allow usage of multiple monitors to increase the amount of visual workspace allowed by the computer.  When splitting the display across multiple monitors, each monitor will display a selected portion of the screen and have a unique output.

The first type of VGA splitter cable is a male to female Y shaped cable.  The cable will plug the male side into the back of the computer or laptop in the same way a monitor would be attached; the two female connectors receive the plug from the monitor devices that will be used.  This type of cable is available in a variety of lengths and is traditionally used to allow simultaneous display of one picture on both screens.  More advanced cables of this type will have a series of female ports to allow multiple monitors, LCD projectors, televisions with VGA input and the like to display the output simultaneously; it can be difficult to find one cord with more than thirty female connectors.  Prices are low for this type of splitter and start around $4; superior quality cables will offer gold plating in the connectors and start around $10.

A second type of VGA splitter cable offers the ability to split the VGA signal between a VGA device and additional visual output device such as S-video or HDMI.  This is typically used to connect a computer to a television or HD monitor.  The cable will have one male VGA connector and two or more female connectors of different types.  Newer computers may not require the splitter as it is now common for machines to offer s-video and DVI output on the standard package; however, just because a computer does not offer these output offerings on the back of the machine does not mean that the video card equipped on the computer does not support the output.  Prices will vary based on the type of secondary output device and generally start around $10 per cable; the longer the cable the more expensive the price and greater chance of signal degradation.

In order for a computer to truly split the display across different displays for a unique picture on each screen the user will need to confirm the graphics card is capable of multi-monitor display.  For XP users, a simple download from Microsoft can enable this capacity for up to 10 computers.  However, for Vista and Windows 7 users, a new or additional graphics card may be required.  You may confirm you graphics card capacity in the settings portion of your control panel, and by calling the manufacturer of the graphics card you may confirm the abilities of the device.

There are many types of Radio Shack cable available including component, composite, coaxial, fiber optic, HDMI/DVI, speaker, patch, video and microphone cables.  In addition to basic cables, “The Shack” also offers cables that connect one type of signal to another and extension cabling.

When shopping online, the store offers a section in each department to view the items on sale.  When checking the Cables, Parts and Connectors division a user can easily locate items by brand or price that are on a clearance or weekly special.  If the desired cable can not be located in the sale section, the main section divides cabling options by application.  Many cables can be found online only as they are not available for purchase in local stores.

The site and local store can also advise consumers as to best selling brands in each category and the benefits of selecting a higher-end product over an economically driven option.  For example, Monster speaker wire may be slightly more expensive than other alternatives, but offers a unique Single-Helix construction that eliminates interference and produces a more natural sound in audio devices.  If the consumer elects to go into a local store the staff is well informed to speak to these benefits, whereas online a variety of user reviews can also attest to this fact.

Another well-recommended brand is the Axis HDMI cable.  In addition to providing the gold connectors needed for outstanding connection, the Axis product can also support resolution formats up to 1080p and meets top of the line industry standards.  Most online offerings are focused on audio cables as this is the most common purchase of Radio Shack cable.

When purchasing cable it is important to first determine the type of ports it will be used in and the necessary length.  A consumer may wish to conduct research on the brand to determine if the price point is correct, or may also elect to call the Radio Shack staff at their customer service number when shopping online.  One aspect that will help a user determine this information is to fully understand the application the cable is to be used for.  For example, when installing car stereo equipment, is the cable to be used on standard speakers, or for more advanced sound?  For HDMI cables, will the cable need to be able to carry a signal consistently over a long distance, or is it only to be used on select occasions for low-picture quality applications such as PowerPoint presentations?

It should also be noted that Radio Shack brand cable can be purchased at other vendors than Radio shack.  Amazon among other online vendors offers the Radio Shack brand for consumers who wish to combine superior quality cable with other merchandise in one bulk order.

With the VGA y splitter cable from Radio Shack, you’d be able to connect the main source laptop or computer to another video screen, whether it is a television or a projector. The graphics are solid and the output on the second display has the same quality as with the original source. Definitely, this is a great feature especially for those who would need a bigger display for a large number of audiences. Even if you have a single VGA card, you can have two displays without even compromising the graphics of the second display.

The splitter would usually have several models and ports to choose from, depending on your preference. You can purchase among any of those nifty units and enjoy several displays using a single computer. Although this is usually a common need in the offices, you can also use this for school and other activities by organizations in your school. This is perfect for those who are going to have a report or a presentation because you will be able to let the other people see the contents of what you are discussing. Through this, they can easily follow the report and take note of the things that they do not understand.

In a single cable, you would be able to mix the numerous signals in transmitting the video signals sent out by the original source. The good thing about the video splitter cable is that, it is quite easy to use. Once you already have the unit, you can already start using it by simply connecting the original source of video to the secondary output display. This type of unit is plug and play, so you can use it even without having too much technical and electronics knowledge.

If you are going to purchase a splitter, you need to make sure that it is made by a well known company. You also need to make sure that it comes with a warranty to make sure that you are guaranteed and your money will not be wasted on items that are useless. Make sure that the splitter is also made with high quality materials that are guaranteed to last for a long time. Although a video splitter cable doesn’t cost that much, it is still important to find those high quality splitters to get your money’s worth.

When purchasing a splitter from a particular brand, make sure that you check the review and testimonials of other users that have purchased the splitter from that brand. If the reviews and testimonials are good, then you have a good shot at that splitter. When buying a splitter, you should also ensure that the video quality is not compromised while replicating the original graphics to the secondary display. Do not chose those splitters that produce cloudy graphics or too blurred images because it will not serve the purpose of being able to replicate the display and letting a greater number of people to see what you want them to see on the secondary display source.

Advice From A Video Jockey On Setting Up A Video Splitter

Another name for a video splitter would be a distribution amplifier. This acts both as a splitter and a booster in one. The splitter device would be facilitating the display of one PC to another alternative display. There are various models to choose from, depending on the format of the video signal that you will be transmitting. If you purchase a video splitter cable that has a built in signal booster, the video quality of the displays will be enhanced. Hence, you will see crystal clear graphics and images, as if the monitor is connected directly to the PC. This is definitely a great buy for those who would like to have several displays using only one computer. Aside from that, these splitters are also available in several units depending on the type that you need.

As mentioned, there are several models for these splitters. The format of the video signals would determine the type of the video splitter that you need. The most basic video splitter cable model is the VGA splitter while the most high end model of splitter cable would be the HDMI splitter. The HDMI type of splitter can allow those devices such as DVD players, set top boxes, and other HDTV devices that have the HDMI output to be connected to more than one HDTV displays. Apparently, you can connect it to two or more HDTV displays depending on your needs. Actually, the compact high definition device uses a single cable instead of numerous cables when connecting to the HDTV display.

These types of splitters are very convenient to use because they are all plug and play. You don’t have to be a tech geek or someone who is informed about electronics when you are going to set up multiple displays with one computer. If you need more displays, you can simply daisy chain these splitters and achieve the number of displays that you need. You can set it up and get numerous displays in just a few minutes.

Apparently, the most basic splitter would be the VGA splitter which is the easiest to install. If you would like to achieve numerous VGA displays, you’d be surprised at how many you were able to do in just a short period of time. This VGA cable also includes a built in signal booster which improves the quality of the video that you are going to watch.  Aside from all those features, another good thing about this type of VGA cable splitter is that, it is very affordable. Among the several models of video splitters available in the market, the VGA splitter cable is the most inexpensive. Those who would like to have numerous displays especially those who would like to make announcements using several displays or those who are on a tight budget would definitely be able to afford the VGA splitter.