If you need to display the same image from one source on multiple displays, you will also need an HDMI splitter and an additional HDMI cable for each additional display. It’s important to understand that HDMI splitters serve a very specific purpose and cannot help you if you are trying to open multiple windows on your workstation.
If your goal is to extend your workspace across multiple monitors, an HDMI splitter won’t work. The workspace extension adds more real estate to the screen, creating a larger viewing area and workstation without duplicating content. Many computers today support multiple monitors through internal system design, or a DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport (MST) hub can create true expanded displays by sending separate video streams to each monitor.
Use an HDMI splitter
Zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
How do HDMI splitters work? They copy a single incoming signal from your source and send identical versions to each output port. HDMI splitters cannot extend a display due to limitations in how HDMI splitters handle video signals. The device does not create new video outputs or generate additional display streams.
Common scenarios for using an HDMI splitter include presentations in a meeting room, home theater setups, and even retail environments. Need to configure multiple screens? Make sure you know these three rules of the HDMI splitter before plugging it in.
If you’re looking to create duplicate displays, make sure you have the correct cable configuration for your setup. There are different types of HDMI splitters to accommodate different numbers of displays. Additionally, you need a separate HDMI cable for each output device.
When shopping, make sure you choose a reliable HDMI splitter to get the best picture on each monitor.
