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8K 48Gbps HDMI 2.1 | 4K 18Gbps HDMI 2.0 | 4K 18Gbps HDMI 2.0 over HDBaseT | HDMI 2.0 with Audio De-embed & Downscale | VLink HDMI over CAT with Extenders
VLink HDMI over CAT Distribution Amplifiers with Extenders
About VLink HDMI over CAT Distribution Amplifiers
VigilLink's VLink CAT distribution amplifier family distributes HDMI signals across standard Cat5e/6 structured cabling infrastructure, combining signal splitting and CAT cable transmission in a single head-end unit. Each output extends HDMI up to 60 meters (HDMI 2.0, 18Gbps) or 70 meters (HDMI 1.4, 10.2Gbps) over a single Cat cable run with integrated transmitter and receiver functionality — making VLink the cost-efficient choice for installations where Cat cabling is already in place to display locations and HDBaseT-class distances are not required. Available in HDMI 2.0 and HDMI 1.4 bandwidth tiers across 1x2, 1x4, and 1x8 output configurations, VLink CAT amplifiers are designed for education, corporate, and hospitality environments where existing Cat infrastructure can be leveraged for AV distribution.
Choosing the Right VLink Distribution Amplifier
HDMI 2.0 at 60m (VLSP-12CTH20 / VLSP-14CTH20 / VLSP-18CTH20): Full 4K@60Hz 18Gbps distribution over Cat5e/6 to 60 meters per output. Choose the CTH20 series when source content is 4K@60Hz and display locations are within 60 meters of the head end.
HDMI 1.4 at 70m (VLSP-12CTH14 / VLSP-14CTH14 / VLSP-18CTH14): 1080p/4K@30Hz 10.2Gbps distribution over Cat5e/6 to 70 meters per output. Choose the CTH14 series when source content is 1080p or 4K@30Hz, or when the additional 10 meters of reach is needed and full 4K@60Hz is not required.
VLink CAT vs. HDBaseT: VLink CAT models transmit HDMI over CAT cable at lower cost than HDBaseT, but with shorter reach (60–70m vs. 150m) and without HDBaseT protocol features such as PoE, control signal passthrough, or ethernet over the same cable. For installations requiring distances beyond 70 meters or the full HDBaseT feature set, use the HDBaseT distribution amplifier family (VLSP-12HT150, VLSP-14HT150, VLSP-18HT150).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum distance per output for VLink CAT distribution amplifiers?
VLink HDMI 2.0 models (CTH20 series) support up to 60 meters per output over Cat5e/6 at 4K@60Hz. VLink HDMI 1.4 models (CTH14 series) support up to 70 meters per output over Cat5e/6 at up to 4K@30Hz or 1080p. These distances apply to each individual Cat cable run from the amplifier to the display or receiver — all outputs operate at maximum distance simultaneously.
What cable category is required for VLink CAT distribution amplifiers?
Cat5e or Cat6 is required for all VLink CTH-series distribution amplifiers. Cat6 is recommended for reliable 4K@60Hz performance at maximum distance on the CTH20 series. Avoid using patch cables for long runs — use solid-core, properly terminated structured cabling for best signal integrity.
Do VLink CAT distribution amplifiers require a receiver at each display?
Yes. A compatible VLink receiver module or HDBaseT receiver is required at each display to convert the Cat cable signal back to HDMI. The receiver connects between the Cat cable run and the display's HDMI input. Check each model's compatibility notes for recommended receiver modules.
What is the difference between VLink CAT and HDBaseT distribution amplifiers?
Both distribute HDMI over Cat cabling, but HDBaseT (VLSP-HT150 series) supports 150-meter distances, full HDBaseT feature set including PoE and control signal passthrough, and interoperability with all HDBaseT-certified equipment. VLink CAT models offer shorter reach (60–70m) at lower cost and are suited to installations where existing Cat cabling is already in place and HDBaseT distances are not needed.
Can VLink CAT distribution amplifiers be used with existing structured cabling?
Yes — VLink CTH-series amplifiers are designed specifically for installations where Cat5e/6 structured cabling already runs to display locations. As long as cable runs are within the distance limits and the cabling is properly terminated, VLink CAT distribution amplifiers can utilize the existing infrastructure without rewiring.