FSR Fiber Optic HDMI Cable Review
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FSR Next Generation Fiber Optic HDMI Cable
So after a couple of years my CablesToGo 10.2Gbps active fiber optic HDMI cable has become intermittent when pushed to 1080P60. It’s fine at 1080P24. Not too stellar at $233.99 for a 33 footer.
Cables To Go Fiber Optic Cable
I also use a Monoprice SlimRun HDMI active fiber optic cable that supports my 18Gbps 4K connection; list price $158.99. See here for my earlier review on both of these fiber cables.
MonoPrice SlimRun Fiber Optic Cable
I have therefore decided to have both of my projector connections support 4K as I have two 4K sources, an Oppo 203 and Oppo 205. My Denon AVP A1 does not support 4K so all 4K sources must be connected directly to my JVC DLA-RS640R projector. I then use the players HDMI inputs to support all my 1080P sources via my Denon AVP A1.
FSR Next Generation Digital Ribbon Cables
These latest generation fiber optic cables come in various lengths from 33 feet to 328 feet, with or without a stainless steel protective jacket (CoilGuard).
Image Credit: FSR Inc. Next Gen CoilGuard Steel Jacket
Both versions have identical technical performance. However, I choose to use the CoilGuard version due to my cable path being rather challenging. The CoilGuard version is much more robust and can stand more than double the pulling force (100lbs). Despite its stainless steel metal jacket the cable is still remarkably flexible and supports the same 0.5 inch bend radius as the none steel jacketed version. If in doubt FSR sells the DS-SOCK. A re-usable pulling tool that will protect the connector and provides a suitable pulling eye – approx cost $20.00.
These cable assemblies are well made with a very flexible yet sturdy plenum rated jacket, and very solid connectors that are securely attached to each cable end. Being active, like all fiber optic cables, they require power for the electronics embedded inside each HDMI connector. The connectors are clearly labeled Source and Display as the display end provides the cables very low power draw of 0.25watts. All displays and projectors should be easily capable of providing this power.
Despite these cables sturdy construction care should still be taken when pulling through conduits and wall spaces and DO NOT use the connector to pull it. Attach the pull string to the main cable or use the DS-SOCK, and no bend radius less than 0.5″.
Firstly did it support the claimed bandwidth? Absolutely, with no apparent problems of any kind. I drove the cable at all resolutions up to 4KP60 4:4:4 8 bit and it performed admirably.
These Next Generation Digital Ribbon Cables utilize a proprietary technology to allow high speed and high definition HDMI signal transmission over distances of up to 328 ft. Both cables come in a black Plenum Rated jacket giving you protection and high quality packaged together.
Image(s) Credit: FSR Inc. Next Generation HDMI Cable Construction.
Common Features:
- HDMI 2.0 with 4k@60Hz YUV 4:4:4 and HDCP 2.2 compliance
- Overcomes distance limitations of conventional copper HDMI cables
- Competitive in cost to similar quality cable types
- Multi format compatibility
- No external power or special tooling required
- Cable and connectors easily fit within a 1” conduit
- Plenum Rated – Type CMP/FT6
- UL Listed
- Supports DDC for HDCP and EDID
- Supports PCM, Dolby, DTS-HD and True HD audio
- ARC compatible
- Lengths from 10m (33′) to 100m (328′)
- List Price – no CoilGuard $219.00 (33 feet)
- List Price – with CoilGuard $265.00 (33 feet)
For those Cable Gurus out there, there is no visible (or audible) difference between this optical fiber HDMI cable and ANY of my other copper or optical HDMI cables at any bit rate up to 18Gbps. Nor should there ever be, if the cable can support the required digital bit rate.
FSR Website for more information.
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