MuxLab IMU-500456 - 5-Play HDMI Extender Kit, UHD-4
The MuxLab IMU-500456 is a professional signal extension solution designed to overcome the distance limitations of conventional HDMI cables, offering robust, latency-free transmission. Based on advanced HDBaseT technology, this kit enables point-to-point connections between an HDMI source (such as a Blu-ray player, media server, or PC) and a remote display or projector, using a single Cat 5e or Cat 6 network cable. Its ability to unify multiple signals into a single infrastructure makes it an essential tool for audiovisual integrators seeking clean and efficient installations.
This system stands out for its versatility, supporting not only 4K UHD ultra-high-definition video and multi-channel digital audio, but also a complete suite of control and data signals. Thanks to its "5-Play" design (according to signal convergence terminology), the device simultaneously manages video, audio, Ethernet (LAN) , and bidirectional control (IR and RS-232), all through a single twisted-pair cable. This eliminates the need for multiple cable runs, drastically reducing installation costs and maintenance complexity in both commercial and residential environments.
The kit includes both the transmitter and receiver, along with IR emitters and sensors, allowing remote control of the source devices from the display location and vice versa. Its metal chassis ensures durability and protection against interference, while its compatibility with 1080p Deep Color and 3D resolutions guarantees pristine image quality, without compression or loss of detail, even at distances of up to 100 meters.
Main features
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HDBaseT technology: Transmission of video, audio, Ethernet and control over a single Cat 5e/6 cable, simplifying the infrastructure.
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4K UHD Resolution: Supports resolutions up to 4K @ 30fps and 1080p Deep Color, delivering crisp, detailed images for digital signage and home theater.
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Integrated LAN connectivity: Includes additional RJ45 ports to pass network (Ethernet) signal between the transmitter and receiver, ideal for Smart TVs or devices that require internet.
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Full bidirectional control: Allows the passage of infrared (IR) signals and RS-232 commands, facilitating remote management of screens and sources from centralized control systems.
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Extended range: Transmits 1080p signals up to 100 meters and 4K signals up to 70 meters, covering large distances without the need for additional repeaters.
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Uncompressed audio: Compatible with all digital audio modes, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, for an immersive sound experience.
Product benefits
The MuxLab IMU-500456 delivers significant value by dramatically simplifying complex audiovisual installations. By reducing all necessary cabling to a single standard network cable, installers save time and materials, avoiding the difficulties of routing thick HDMI cables through narrow conduits. For the end user, the primary benefit is flexibility: they can place noisy or bulky equipment in a rack away from the meeting room or lounge, maintaining a quiet and aesthetically pleasing environment without sacrificing image quality or control capabilities.
Use cases
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Conference and meeting rooms: Connecting laptops on the meeting table to distant projectors or screens, keeping control and network on the same cable.
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Digital Signage: Distribution of advertising content in 4K to screens located in lobbies or shopping centers, away from the multimedia player.
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Residential Systems and Home Cinema: Centralization of AV equipment in a technical cabinet and signal transmission to televisions in different rooms.
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Educational environments: Classrooms and auditoriums where the projector is installed on the ceiling, away from the teacher's desk or the presentation podium.
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Medical systems: Transmission of high-resolution images from diagnostic equipment to consultation monitors without loss of quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cable should I use for maximum performance?
The use of high-quality Cat 5e or Cat 6 cables is strongly recommended, preferably with solid conductors and, in environments with interference, shielded (STP) cables. For maximum distances and 4K resolutions, Cat 6 or higher is the best option.
Does the device supply power through the cable (PoE)?
This specific model uses included external power supplies to ensure signal stability across all functions (video, audio, LAN, control). The power supplies must be connected to both the transmitter and the receiver.
Is it compatible with 3D signals?
Yes, the extender fully supports 3D video formats, as well as 1080p Deep Color and 4K, provided the display and source are compatible.
Can I control my DVD or Blu-ray player from another room?
Yes, thanks to the included IR emitters and sensors, you can point your remote control at the receiver (near the TV) and the signal will travel to the transmitter to control the hidden source device.
Project description
This point-to-point HDBaseT HDMI extender kit, consisting of a transmitter and receiver, is capable of sending UHD 4K video, digital audio, Ethernet (LAN), RS-232, and bidirectional IR signals over a single Cat 5e/6 cable. It supports resolutions up to 4K @ 30Hz (4:4:4) or 60Hz (4:2:0) at a distance of 70 meters, and 1080p Deep Color up to 100 meters. It includes RJ45 ports for 10/100BaseT data transmission and 3.5 mm connectors for infrared extension. The kit features a metal housing with an included external power supply for both units.
