How do HDMI cables go bad?

Time for a Cable Change? Here's How to Find Out

Believe it or not, yes television cables can expire with time. The problem is that not many people are aware what truly causes problems with their cords. Not only this, but some also neglect to check frequently to understand the signs that replacement is needed. These issues can include, but not limited to: no image at all, a blurry image, image that isn't consistent and also not hearing any sound. Now some of these can be due to other issues, but it never hurts to check your cables before anything else.

The first thing that may not be on everyone's mind when thinking something is wrong with their HDMI cable is that there's simply a kink in the line. The truth is: technology is fragile, and they can easily be broken rather easily if proper care is not ensured. Therefore bends in your cord can cause issues; however, sometimes this isn't something you can avoid at times. On the other hand, the physical cord itself isn't the only thing that can be bent and be causing a problem. If you look at the end of your HDMI cable, there are connector pins which are what is being connected to your television. These can bend from general use and also from being plugged in again and again. Now, these are possible to fix with a pair of needle nose pliers; however this is sometimes impossible with severe bends and also the chance of bending, even breaking, other pins in the process. If bending the pins back into place or if you don't want to risk making the issue worse than it already is, your best bet is to buy a new HDMI cable altogether.

The more serious issue can be when HDMI cables are worn out with age and further damage. Like most cables and electronic items, corrosion is always possible. However, this is slightly more avoidable by using the gold plated connectors; this does lead to a higher price point, but some do believe it to be worth the cost. Silver cables perform just as well, except for the fact that corrosion is simply possible. The major drawback is not only doing companies charge more for gold connectors, but they also advertise them exponentially more than other metals. Cleaning the corrosion with chemicals is possible; if these are too harsh, however, more damage can be done to the cable. Some even say that cleaning the cables is pointless, as it's better just to purchase a new cable entirely.

Knowing when your HDMI cable, or any electronic cable for that matter, is in need of tune-up or replacement is incredibly important. Being unaware not lead to damage not just within the cord itself, but anything the cord itself is connected to such as a television or gaming console. HDMI cables can last a long time if taken care of properly, up to many years. Proper care involves checking your connectors regularly, be sure to store cables away from harm and also by ensuring that any damage is taken care properly; however knowing simply when the time does come for a new cable is the most important to prevent pointless effort and headaches from trying to salvage a non-working cable.