Available now, the HEX18GARC-KIT extender set uses the latest HDBaseT technology for the distribution of bit-for-bit 4K HDMI video and audio up to 328 feet over a single Cat6A cable, with support for USB 2.0/KVM, eARC, ARC, and 1Gb Ethernet pass-through. The result is a full HDMI and control solution that leverages nearly all the capabilities in the latest HDBaseT technology.

“The HEX18GARC-KIT is the big brother to our recently released HEX18G-KIT and completes our initial line of uncompressed and unconverted 4K 18Gbps HDBaseT extenders,” said Martyn Shirley, Blustream GM. “Like its predecessor, it delivers the ultimate in picture quality for the most demanding residential and commercial spaces while adding a range of industry-first audio and network features for critical viewing areas.”

The kit supports the HDMI 2.0 18Gbps specification, including 4K 60Hz 4:4:4 UHD video, and HDCP 2.3/2.2/1.4. Its transmitter and receiver support uncompressed distribution of the latest HDR resolutions — including HDR10/10+ and Dolby Vision — for the ultimate in picture quality. HDMI re-clocking on the HDBaseT receiver helps to resolve HDMI HDCP, compatibility, and handshaking issues.

With support for USB 2.0 at speeds up to 350Mbps, the HEX18GARC-KIT features an integrated 4-port hub with bi-directionality that provides flexibility when deploying KVM or USB accessories to or from the local or remote location.

The extender set supports eARC from the display via HDMI and standard ARC from HDMI and optical (S/PDIF) digital inputs. The device supports all known HDMI audio formats — including Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, and DTS-HD Master Audio transmission — in addition to bi-directional IR, RS-232, and power over cable.