Why are we using HDMI cables at all? When the signal is brought in via coaxial, why not have coaxial connections on our tv’s for HD programming?
You *could* do that. But a coaxial cable is essentially just one set of connections…signal in the center, surrounded by ground (return). If you want to send multiple signals simultaneously, you'd need to modulate a high frequency carrier wave to put onto the coax, then demodulate it and split o…
The Short Answer
You *could* do that. But a coaxial cable is essentially just one set of connections…signal in the center, surrounded by ground (return). If you want to send multiple signals simultaneously, you'd need to modulate a high frequency carrier wave to put onto the coax, then demodulate it and split out the different signals at the other end. And if you want to send power over a coax, you'd need more special circuitry to separate the signal from the power. With a multi-conductor cable like HDMI, you can send various types of signals (and power) independently. And you can send direct digital signals without converting first to analog/RF (modulating) and then back to digital (demodulating). This means that the circuitry at either end is a bit simpler and cheaper. Again, you *could* do it all over coax using a very high frequency carrier. But it is simpler/cheaper to keep the various signals and power separate.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Signals, send, power
This explanation focuses on signals, send, power and spans 157 words across 9 sentences. At 109% above the average Technology explanation (75 words), this is one of the more thorough answers in this category, reflecting the complexity of the underlying question.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “You *could* do that.” It then elaborates by presenting a contrasting perspective, ultimately building toward a complete picture across 9 connected points.
How This Compares in Technology
Ranked #23 of 500 Technology questions by answer depth (top 5%). This places it in the comprehensive tier — the top quarter of most thoroughly answered questions. Questions at this depth typically involve multi-faceted topics requiring nuanced explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why we using hdmi cables at all? when the signal is brought in via coaxial, why not have coaxial connections on our tv's for hd programming?
You *could* do that. But a coaxial cable is essentially just one set of connections…signal in the center, surrounded by ground (return). If you want to send multiple signals simultaneously, you'd need to modulate a high frequency carrier wave to…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Technology questions?
This is one of the most thorough answer at 157 words, ranked #23 of 500 Technology questions by depth. The key concepts covered are signals, send, power.
What approach does this answer take to explain we using hdmi cables at all? when the signal is brought in v?
The explanation uses contrasting perspectives across 157 words. It is categorized under Technology and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.