How to use a HDMI extender in a DVR

In this article we will show how to use HDMI extender to connect a DVR or NVR to a TV/monitor. If you need to carry the video signal from your DVR for long distances, one solution is to use an HDMI extender that allows you to use Category 5 or 6 network cables (so called Ethernet cable) to extend the signal to distances that can reach up to 120m (600-700 feet).

This is a very common installation situation where the use of an HDMI cable imposes a limit on the maximum distance to be used. Let’s say you have the CCTV recorder in your basement and you want to view the cameras on a TV on the second floor of your house. If that’s your case, a HDMI extender will help you to send the video signals from your DVR/NVR to a distant monitor, by using UTP cables.

HDMI extender options

• Passive HDMI extender using one cat5/6 cable
• Active HDMI extender using one cat5/6 cable

The types of HDMI extenders and prices vary according to the models, for some situations it is doable to use passive models, for other situations however, active models are recommended. Active HDMI extenders need to be powered, passive ones don’t need a power source.

Passive HDMI extender using one Ethernet cable

A basic solution that utilizes an HDMI transmitter (Tx) on the DVR/NVR side, and another HDMI receiver (Rx) on the monitor side. You need to use one network cable to connect both sides. See the diagram below.
An advantage of this type of HDMI extender is that since being a passive one you don’t need to power it. All you have to do is plug it on both sides (recorder and TV). See in the picture below an example of this type of HDMI extender.
Although the implementation is simple there are some limitations in this model. It’s necessary to make sure you are using the right one. Many manufacturers claim that their HDMI extenders carry the signals at distances of up to 30m (100 feet), however many times they can’t transmit the signal at the claimed distance. Buy reliable models such as this one: HDMI Extender H-COME or even this model manufactured by Jahyshow.

Active HDMI extender using one Ethernet cable

For situations where it is necessary to use an HDMI extender that allows the use of longer distance cables, an active (powered) model must be used. The installation is very similar, you have to use the transmitter (Tx) and the receiver (Rx) to carry the signals from one point to another. See an example below with a model that can work with up to 2 outputs (monitors, TVs) at the same time.
​With this this type of HDMI extender is possible to amplify the signal to travel at distances 150-200 feet. This HDMI extender uses 5VDC power source, note the connector for power and porr the Cat5/6 cable. It’s more expensive, but the quality is good. It’s possible to transmit images with 720p and 1080p resolution at long distances, including clear audio signal.

Which HDMI extender should I buy?

It all depends on what you need, if you want to have something with high quality but there’s no issues with interference or long cables, it is recommendable to buy the passive model that uses only one Ethernet cable. Prices for this type can vary from 9 to 15 dollars, really affordable.

The active HDMI extenders cost a little bit more, from 50 to 150 dollars depending on the model and technical specifications. They can run the signal in a long distance, amplify the signal and deliver a 1080p image to the monitor or TV. An important detail is the size of the extender. Make sure it fits into the output of the DVR or NVR. If the HDMI extender is too bulky, you won’t be able to plug it in because the VGA port is too close.