AV over UTP refers to the transmission of analog or digital Audio-Video signals over
unshielded twisted pair category cables, such as Cat5 or Cat6r, which have four twisted pairs. This technology allows you to send AV signals on a one-to-one (point-to-point) or many-to-one (multipoint-to-point) configuration.
AV over UTP solutions require specialized equipment, known as baluns and extenders, to convert the signals for transmission over the four twisted pairs on Cat5e or better cables.
Baluns are usually used to transmit
uncompressed analog signals and usually do not require power. The word baluns refers to the unbalanced-to-balanced and balanced-to-unbalanced conversion made by the baluns, which work in pairs. The baluns take an "unbalanced" analog AV signal and convert it to a "balanced signal" which effectively rejects electro-magnetic interference (EMI) that affect coaxial cables that carry an unbalanced signal. Passive (non-powered) baluns are a very economical way of sending one or up to four analog audio and video signals over long distances using a single UTP Cat5 or Cat6 cable. Although passive baluns have some distance limitations, the results can be very good when used within the distance limitations specified by the manufacturer.
Extenders are usually used for digital signals, such as HDMI, and require power at the transmitter and receiver. Extenders can send the HDMI signal using one or two UTP Cat5 or better cables.
AV over UTP is different than AV over IP (Internet Protocol). AV over IP refers to the transmission of AV signals over a network using Internet Protocol. AV over IP requires the signal to be digitized, compressed, and converted into IP packets, which are then sent over a standard IP network, such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
See our extensive selection of AV over UTP products below.
