Choose a length that follows the planned route with room for bends and service slack, then match the connector type to the equipment, such as HDMI for AV devices or SFP+ for compatible network hardware, while checking whether the cable is directional and requires source-side power. Select bandwidth based on the system’s requirements, such as up to 18 Gbps for supported HDMI video applications or 10 Gbps for compatible SFP+ network connections.

For AV connections, verify the connector type, cable direction, source and display ends, supported bandwidth and video features, such as 4K at 60 Hz, HDR, HDCP, CEC, ARC, and audio formats; also confirm whether the cable requires source-end USB or adapter power. For networking equipment, match the active optical cable’s SFP or SFP+ connectors, link speed, multimode fiber requirements, and equipment compatibility, and check that the transceivers or switches support the applicable standard.

Many active optical cables draw power from the connected source and do not require an external supply, while some directional HDMI cables require USB or adapter power at the source end. Connect the marked source end to the signal source, such as a media player or network switch, and connect the display or network end to the receiving device.

For in-wall installations, select an active optical cable with the appropriate CL2 or CL3 rating, and follow local code requirements and the cable’s specified bend radius. Plan enough routing space for gentle bends and connector access, keep runs away from strong electromagnetic interference where practical, and verify directional HDMI connections and any source-end power requirements before closing the wall.