Measure the complete cable path, including bends, equipment placement, and a practical amount of service slack, then choose the closest available length that covers the run without leaving excessive spare cable. For long-distance AV installations, active optical HDMI cables are available in lengths from 5 to 40 meters, but check the cable’s stated ARC or eARC distance when audio return is part of the design.

Compare cables for the resolution your system needs, such as 4K, 5K, 8K, or 10K, along with bandwidth up to 48 Gbps and refresh rates up to 120 frames per second or hertz. Also check support for HDR, Consumer Electronics Control (CEC), Audio Return Channel (ARC), and enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC), noting the cable’s stated distance limits for ARC and eARC.

Most HDMI to optical cables do not require external power, but an included USB cord can provide power when the connected equipment supplies less than five volts through HDMI. For installation, choose a length that fits the run, confirm the cable supports the planned resolution and ARC or eARC needs, and use the plenum-jacketed construction where the installation requires plenum-rated cabling.

HDMI to optical cables can support audio return through Audio Return Channel (ARC) or enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC), along with Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) for compatible devices. They may also carry HDR and high-resolution video signals, while most applications do not require external power, subject to the cable length and connected equipment.