Valve Reveals Reason Behind HDMI Version on Steam Machine Spec Sheet

In recent times, there have been several discussions among tech enthusiasts about the specifications listed for Valve's upcoming Steam Machines. One particular aspect that caught attention is the port type listed – HDMI 2.0. This has sparked curiosity and raised questions about why the hardware seems to be wired for a higher version of HDMI (HDMI 2.1) but only lists HDMI 2.0 on the spec sheet.

Understanding the Specification

To get to the bottom of this, it's essential to understand what HDMI stands for – High-Definition Multimedia Interface. It's a widely used interface standard for digital video and audio interfaces between devices.

HDMI versions are incremental updates that improve upon previous specifications. For instance:

• HDMI 1.0: Introduced in 2002
• HDMI 1.3: Released in 2006, with increased bandwidth
• HDMI 1.4: Launched in 2009, adding new features like 3D support and Ethernet connectivity
• HDMI 2.0: Released in 2013, featuring higher bandwidth and improved performance

Why HDMI 2.0 on Steam Machine Spec Sheet?

Valve recently clarified the reason behind listing only HDMI 2.0 for their Steam Machines. According to them, the port is indeed capable of carrying an HDMI 2.1 signal.

However, there's a catch – SteamOS, the operating system pre-installed on these machines, cannot take full advantage of HDMI 2.1 features without further development.

The Limitation

At present, SteamOS is not optimized to work with the full range of capabilities offered by HDMI 2.1. The current version does not support some of the newer features like variable refresh rate (VRR) and dynamic audio return channel (DAC).

This limitation might seem like a minor issue at first but has significant implications for those who want to utilize their Steam Machines' hardware in its entirety.

What Does This Mean for Users?

While this might be disappointing news, it's essential to note that Valve is actively working on improving the capabilities of SteamOS. As the operating system evolves, we can expect to see better support for newer HDMI versions and additional features like VRR and DAC.

In the meantime, users who purchase Steam Machines will still have access to a robust gaming experience thanks to the existing capabilities offered by HDMI 2.0.

Conclusion

The reason behind Valve's listing of only HDMI 2.0 on their Steam Machine spec sheet might seem confusing at first, but it's essential to understand that the port is indeed capable of carrying an HDMI 2.1 signal. However, due to limitations in SteamOS, these features are not yet available.

As the operating system continues to evolve, we can expect to see improved support for newer HDMI versions and additional features. For now, users will still enjoy a powerful gaming experience thanks to their Steam Machines' existing capabilities.

Key Takeaways:

• The port on Valve's Steam Machines is capable of carrying an HDMI 2.1 signal.
• However, SteamOS cannot take full advantage of this feature without further development.
• The current limitation has implications for users who want to utilize their Steam Machines' hardware in its entirety.
• Valve is actively working on improving the capabilities of SteamOS, which will likely include better support for newer HDMI versions and additional features.