The Bottom Line
An HDMI switch is a way to expand an HDTV's single HDMI input into two or more inputs. One example is the OPPO HM-31 Advanced 3-1 HDMI Switch, which provides for the connection of three HDMI sources. This unit is very easy to use, provides several control options, and does not degrade signal quality from HDMI sources.
Pros
- HDMI ver1.3 Compatible
- Easy to set up and use
- Built-in signal booster (equalizer feature to accommodate longer cable lengths)
- RS232 connection for custom installation requirements.
- Remote Control included
Cons
- Only 3 HDMI inputs.
- Components with continously active HDMI outputs (cable box) need to be connected to Input 3.
Description
- Easy and convenient selection from up to three HDMI sources
- Meets HDMI 1.3 specifications.
- Supports 1080p, Deep Color, and all HDTV resolutions.
- DVI and HDCP compliant.
- Long cable support with built-in equalizer
- Remote control Included
- Custom installation options – external IR input and RS-232C port.
- AC Adapter Power Supply Included: Input: ~ 100V – 240V, 50/60Hz AC, Output: 5V DC, 1A max. Power Consumption: 3 Watts (max).
- Operating Temperature: 5°C - 35°C (41°F - 95°F). Operating Humidity: 15% - 75%
- Dimensions: 7-3/8" x 4-1/2" x 1-1/16", (187mm x 116mm x 27mm). Weight: 9oz or 0.25kg
Guide Review - OPPO HM-31 Advanced 3-1 HDMI Switch
Another useful feature provided is the IR extender port. This allows the user to plug in an optional IR sensor (OPPO Part #IR-ES1), that is on the end of a cable, so that the switch can be hidden away and the IR sensor positioned to pick up the commands from the provided remote control. In addition, the HM-31 can also be wall mounted for use with flat panel TV installations.
Additional control options provided are an RS232 port, which is used by Custom Installers, and Input Auto Sensing, which detects when a source component is turned on. The Auto-Sensing inputs work in the following order: Input 1 overides Input 2, Input 2 overrides Input 3.
Using several HDMI source components ( OPPO DV-980H Upscaling DVD player, Sony BDP-S1 Blu-ray Disc Player, Toshiba HD-XA1 HD-DVD player) and several HDMI cable lengths (3ft to 12ft), neither the the HDMI "handshake" or signal integrity was an issue. When comparing direct connection of the HDMI components to the HDTVs used ( Westinghouse LVM-37w3 1080p LCD Monitor and Samsung LN-R238W 720p LCD TV ) vs HDMI signals going through the switch before going to the HDTV, there was no detectable difference between the two options.
The HM-31 is great for expanding the number of HDMI inputs on an HDTV. It provides convenience and good performance, and is fully HDMI 1.3 compatible. The only disappointment is that the HM-31 provides three inputs, while most HDMI switches provide four inputs.
Photos of the OPPO HM-31 Advanced 3-1 HDMI Switch:
Switch with Remote Control and AC Adapter
Switch Rear View - RS232, HDMI, and Power Supply Connections
Photos (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com
