What is MHL – Mobile High-Definition Link Connection Interface
MHL is same as the, Mobile High-Definition Link. It is a new type of connection technology that we came to know last year thanks to its incorporation into the known Samsung Galaxy SII and HTC Sensation. In 2012, there will be many more devices incorporating it.
But what exactly is MHL? This is a type of connection emerged in 2010 for transmitting 1080p quality video uncompressed (192 khz with 7.1 sound output) from phones and tablets to larger screen Televisions, although the connection is open to all types of equipment.
How MHL is different from other Connection Interfaces?
To begin with, this specification was developed and is being supported by the MHL Consortium that consists of Nokia, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba and Silicon Image.
Furthermore, the use of only five-pin connection facilitates the interconnection and interoperability between computers. In case of absence of connection that supports this new kind of technology, adapters are easily available in Market.
Also, the MHL connection allows charging (5 V, 500 mA) of connected equipment while it performs video and audio transmission.
Another important thing is that it has full support for High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) technologies for the safeguarding of high-value digital motion pictures, television programs and audio against unauthorized interception and copying.
Which devices are MHL compatible?
As of now, Mobile devices that support MHL, are:
- Samsung: Infuse, Galaxy S2 Galaxy Note, Galaxy Nexus, Epic 4G Touch
- HTC: Sensation, Sensation XE, Sensation XL, Rezound, Vivid, EVO 3D, Amaze, Raider, Flyer, EVO View 4G, JetStream
- LG: Optimus LTE (Nitro HD)
- Meizu: Meizu M
Brands such as Samsung have already started introducing MHL compatibility in their Series 7 Smart Television models.
If you don’t have an MHL-compatible TV yet? No worries, because as I said already, MHL-to-HDMI adapters that connect to any HD TV are readily available for around $15. Don’t spend much as it hadly makes any difference as in case of difference between cheap and expensive HDMI cable.
In future, MHL 2.0 is expected to feature support for 3D content too.
For more info: Silicon Image
