Transformative Engineering’s Intros HDBase-T Matrix

Transformative Engineering has introduced the HDM-4×2, a four-source, two-display HDMI matrix switch with a local HDMI output and remote HDBaseT output that they claim is capable of switching 4K signals (buyer beware, as there are no 4K compatibility specs for color bit depth). The local output is Audio Return Channel (ARC) enabled, and the remote output uses HDBaseT technology that allows inexpensive Cat5/6e network cable and an included receiver module to deliver content to TVs up to 70m away. The HDM-4×2 has IR or RS-232 control.

The remote TV output from the HDM-4×2 is connected via UTP (Cat5e/6) wiring and is an HDBaseT signal. It is designed to run over a length of UTP (Cat 5e/6) wire up to 70 meters and connect to the supplied HDBaseT Receiver at the TV, where it is converted to HDMI and IR. There is no ARC along this path. The HDBaseT receiver at the TV side is powered over the UTP wire from the transmitter built into the HDM-4×2. No Power Supply is needed at the TV side.

The HDM-4×2 will list for $749 but it’s not on TE’s website yet. When it is, it will be here.