Active HDMI Cables

Active optical HDMI converts the signal to light inside the connector, carries it over glass fibre, and converts it back at the far end. Because the signal travels optically, attenuation over distance effectively stops being the limiting factor, and full 48Gbps bandwidth holds at 100 feet and considerably further where copper would have failed long before.

These cables are directional

The most common installation error with AOC. One end is marked source and the other display, and reversing them produces no picture at all. Because AOC is typically installed inside walls or conduit, getting this wrong means pulling the cable back out. Check the marking before the run, not after.

Choosing between AOC and copper

Under 25 feet, passive copper is cheaper and entirely adequate. Between 25 and 50 feet at 4K, heavy gauge copper may work depending on the equipment. Beyond 50 feet, or at 8K beyond about 15 feet, active optical is the only dependable answer. AOC is also thinner and more flexible than heavy copper of equivalent capability, which matters when pulling through conduit or around tight corners.

Plenum rated jackets are available for runs through air handling spaces.

Further reading: What HDMI Cable Do You Need for a Long Run?