New extender from Gefen sends HDTV with audio, ethernet and IR up to 100 meters over just one CAT-5 cable.

CHATSWORTH, CA – Connectivity solutions provider Gefen today announced the release of its HDMI v1.3 over CAT-5 ELR (Extra Long Range) extender. This sender/receiver system sends high definition video with audio, Ethernet and IR back channel up to 330 feet (100m) over just one CAT-5 cable. This is nearly double the distance previous systems could reach using two CAT-5 cables.

“Installers can now turn to Gefen for the most cutting-edge and affordable CAT-5 cable-based extension system for HDTV,� said Hagai Gefen, president and CEO, Gefen Inc. “The HDMI v1.3 CAT-5 ELR cuts cable costs, expands the range of HDTV signal delivery and allows standard network devices to be extended over the same cable.�

The ability to extend Ethernet allows IP-based applications to be easily integrated into the system, and an IR blaster allows the remote source to be controlled by an IR remote pointed at the display.

Hi-def resolutions up to 1080p/60 full HD supporting deep color, lip sync and 8.1 digital audio with Dolby TrueHD and DTS Master Audio are delivered instantly from the local source to the extended display.

The system’s sender unit connects to the source; the receiver unit connects to the display. One CAT-5 cable connects the sender to the receiver, and may be placed in conduit or run along the floor.

A true plug and play installation, ease of use and a reliable, steadfast performance make the HDMI v1.3 CAT-5 ELR a valuable product for anyone installing hi-def audio/video systems today.

The HDMI v1.3 CAT-5 ELR will begin shipping in December 2009. Orders may be placed with one of Gefen’s international resellers, US-based distributors or online at Gefen.com.