DVIGear launches DVI cables to the HyperLight series-- a new generation of Active Optical Cables (AOC) with support for the extension of DVI 1.0 signals and, with an optional adapter cable, HDMI.

The cables are HDCP 1.4 compliant and support signals with aggregate data rates up to 4.95Gbps. Such features enable HyperLight cables to support any single-link DVI resolution with cable lengths up to 328m. Construction is in a hybrid design of four POF (Polyfluorinated Optical Fiber) and 6 copper wires, allowing for a rugged and flexible cable with a minimum bend radius of only 2mm.

Installers can remove the two DVI docking connectors in order to minimise cable diameter, revealing a connector cross-section of just 13.9 x 14.2mm. The docking connectors include fixation screws for added security, as do the removable pull covers. As a result the cables are easy to install, even in narrow conduits or plenum air spaces.

CEDIA Expo 2018 has Metra Home Theatre Group launch the Ethereal passive Velox HDMI cables, the EHV-HDP10-R2, featuring a microwave RF design and support for 18Gbps, 4K/60, 4:4:4 video signals with HDR.

Metra claims the cable offers features in metallurgy, topology, dielectric and shielding in the highest bandwidth of the market, as well as less insertion loss over long distances with a diameter of 9.5mm. Smooth solder joints optimise impedance matching between conductors, while the conductors are directly soldered to the connector to reduce insertion loss.

D-Tools launches its Cloud offering-- a multi-OS, web-accessible platform enabling a connected workflow and in-app collaboration for both internal and external stakeholders.

D-Tools Cloud is a scalable, simple-to-adopt web-based solution able to guide users from managing sales prospects, through quoting, system design and procurement. The Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) application features sales pipeline and opportunity management, in-app collaboration, workflow management and guidance, critical business analytics and interactive multimedia proposals accessible from any web-enabled Mac, PC or tablet.

Designed to get users onboard and working in minutes, users simply need to answer a few basic questions before D-Tools Cloud configures accounts, catalogs, templates and base systems, allowing users to start building accurate quotes through an intuitive process able to kick start productivity and reduce time to sale.

FIBBR launches the Crystal fibre optic active HDMI cable at CEDIA 2018-- a cable featuring a transparent jacket able to combine Data Display Cannel (DDC) and Hot Plug Detection (HPD) signals into a single copper wire.

To do so, the cable uses FIBBR TransFuture technology, with 2 micro-controller units managing the signals for EDID and HDCP 2.2 operation. The system also includes a firmware update option to remedy compatibility issues.

Like all FIBBR HDMI cables, Crystal features BendRobust technology allowing installers to bend the fibre by 180 degrees for easier management. The company claims Crystal carries uncompressed, native 4K content at 18Gbps up to 50m, without loss or interference. It uses power direct from AC coupling, eliminating the need for external power on the receiving end.

TV Template unveils a TV Template Sizing Kit at CEDIA 2018. TV Templates are a visual representation of TVs, giving installers and customers the most accurate visual of the size TV for the space.

Designed to reduce the number of TV returns, maximise TV sales and improve the customer experience, the kit comes with 85-, 75-, 65-, 49- and 40-inch prints delivered in a poster tube. Intstallers hang the lightweight prints with blue painters' tape or tacks. Once a template is on the wall, installers and customers get a visual and feel of what size is right for the particular space.

Covid announces an addition to the AOC cable product line-- the Shielded Active Optical HDMI cable, with many of the same benefits as other AOC cable products, such as use in longer distance applications and a plenum rating.

What makes AOC cables different is HDMI 2.0 support, in addition to overall shielding and a durable metal connector shell. The overall shell helps make the cable suitable for sensitive installations, including some medical applications.

While AOC cables offer many benefits compared to full copper cables, one potential downfall is most cannot be used outside of point-to-point applications. The shielded AOC cable is not bound by the point-to-point restriction, and can be used in a range of applications, depending on resolution and source/display devices in use.