Crestron HD-EARC KIT – DM Essentials 4K60 4:4:4 eARC HDMI Transmitter/Receiver Kit over CATx

Product Overview

The Crestron HD-EARC KIT is a matched transmitter and receiver set that extends 4K60 4:4:4 HDMI video, eARC audio, RS-232, IR, and optical audio signals over a single CATx cable. Part of the DM Essentials product line, it provides a high-performance, cost-effective signal extension solution for conference rooms, classrooms, and display installations where source and display are separated by distances that exceed standard HDMI cable limits.

Product Description

The kit includes one transmitter and one receiver, designed to work together to extend the full HDMI signal including 4K60 4:4:4 HDR video and eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) audio over industry-standard CATx structured cabling. The eARC capability allows the connected display's audio output to be returned to an AV receiver or DSP at the source end, supporting modern soundbar and home theater audio extraction workflows. RS-232 and IR pass-through enable control of source or display equipment through the same cable infrastructure. Optical audio pass-through provides an additional audio routing path. The DM Essentials line is positioned for installations requiring reliable AV signal extension without the complexity of full DM NVX AV-over-IP infrastructure.

Key Features

• 4K60 4:4:4 HDMI video extension over CATx cable
• eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) support for downstream audio extraction
• RS-232 pass-through for serial device control
• IR pass-through for remote control signal extension
• Optical audio pass-through
• Kit includes matched transmitter and receiver
• Designed for DM Essentials simple deployment without AV-over-IP infrastructure
• Compatible with standard Cat 6/6A structured cabling

Typical Applications

• Conference room display extension from a central AV credenza or rack to a wall-mounted display
• Classroom projection and display signal distribution
• Boardroom and executive suite AV installations with separated source and display
• Hotel meeting room and event space AV signal extension
• Residential home theater where eARC audio return from display to AV receiver is required

Technical Specifications

• Model: HD-EARC KIT
• Video: HDMI, 4K60 4:4:4
• Audio Return: eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel)
• Control Pass-Through: RS-232, IR
• Additional Audio: Optical audio pass-through
• Cable Type: CATx (Cat 6 / Cat 6A recommended)
• Product Line: Crestron DM Essentials
• Kit Contents: 1x Transmitter, 1x Receiver

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What maximum distance does the HD-EARC KIT support over CATx?
A: Maximum extension distance depends on cable quality and gauge. Refer to Crestron's HD-EARC KIT installation documentation for confirmed distance specifications with Cat 6 and Cat 6A cable.

Q: Is eARC supported on all HDMI sources and displays with this kit?
A: eARC requires both the source/display and the connected AV equipment to support eARC. The HD-EARC KIT passes the eARC signal through the extension; confirm eARC compatibility at both endpoints before deployment.

Q: Does this kit require Crestron control system programming to operate?
A: No. The HD-EARC KIT operates as a standalone signal extender and does not require connection to a Crestron control processor. It can be integrated with a Crestron system for RS-232 and IR control if desired.