HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) connectors support a physically compact communications interface supporting uncompressed digital audio and video transmissions between devices such as DVD players, High Definition TV, set-top boxes, computer monitors, and 3D HDTV. Five types of HDMI connectors have been released, labelled Type A - E. The latest is Types D and E, for use with HDMI version 1.4. HDMI is an industry standard with a founding organization whose original goal was to provide a single interface that was also backwards-compatible with the existing DVI (Digital Video Interface) format. The first HDMI cables were released in late 2002. HDMI has since greatly increased in bandwidth (amount of data carrying capability) and allows crystal clear pictures on HDTV with billions of possible color variations. HDMI also includes encryption technology that prevents users from copying content and a royalty fee is charged for it's use by manufacturers.
