LIKE OUR REVIEWS? SUPPORT OUR SITE ON FACEBOOK OR GOOGLE PLUS

When you're attaching a Digital Video Interface (DVI) source to a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) source, it's important that you have the right connection. The Cables Unlimited Pro A/V Series PCM-2296 DVI to HDMI adapter cable is a high-quality cable that will satisfy the needs of most users. However, keep in mind that while HDMI is both an audio and video signal, DVI only transfers a digital video signal. You'll have to use a separate cable if you want an audio feed.

Both the DVI-D connector and the HDMI connector on this cable are gold-plated. Gold plating helps prevent signal loss because gold is an excellent conductor of electricity. Gold is also resistant to corrosion, which is another reason why gold-plated connectors are preferable.

This DVI to HDMI cable does not have an oxygen-free copper (OFC) core conductor. Some consumers feel that lowering the amount of oxygen in the copper helps increase conductivity. Others, however, claim that it doesn't make a difference. It seems to be a matter of preference, but most of the highest-rated DVI to HDMI adapter cables in our review had OFC conductors.

Shielding is a built-in defense system against external interference. Without shielding, a cable's signal can be interrupted by electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference. The Cables Unlimited Pro A/V Series is fully shielded for maximum protection.

The PCM-2296 also supports high resolution. It is compatible with HDTV formats up to 1080p, so it will give you a full H signal. This cable is also able to transfer data at a rate of 10.2 gigabytes per second.

Impedance is a measurement of the resistance to an electrical current. It is important that each end of the cable has a matched impedance level so that one doesn't overload the other. We contacted customer support to ask about matching impedance levels on this cable and we were told, "The cable ends are not tested for matching impedance."

This DVI to HDMI cable is only available in two different lengths, which doesn't give you much flexibility. The Cables Unlimited Pro A/V Series PCM-2296 is available in 2-meter and 3-meter lengths. These lengths should work for most setups, but a variety is always appreciated.

The support section on the Cables Unlimited site is a little strange. Their FAQs page links to other websites, which is odd, and a few of their links direct you to articles that specifically attack Monster Cable.

We sent Cables Unlimited an email with some questions and received a helpful response. They also have a telephone number for technical support, but the recording told us that Cables Unlimited only does technical support via email now.

Summary:

Cables Unlimited manufactures a wide variety of cables for various purposes. The Cables Unlimited Pro A/V Series PCM-2296 is specifically engineered to connect a DVI source to an HDMI source. This DVI to HDMI adapter cable features gold-plated connectors to ensure a strong signal and it can support high-resolution images.

 
  • Software
  • Electronics
  • Mobile
  • Web Services
  • Appliances
  • Entertainment
  • Small Business
  • Auto Tech
  • More »
Electronics » Computers » DVI to HDMI Review » Cables Unlimited Pro A/V Series

Cables Unlimited Pro A/V Series PCM-2296

Pros
The Cables Unlimited Pro A/V Series PCM-2296 is shielded against interference.

Cons
This DVI to HDMI cable does not have many length options.

The Verdict

If you are happy with the length options, we recommend this cable for its quality signal.