HDCP
HDCP, which stands for High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection, is a copy protection technology designed to eliminate the interception of digital data midstream between the source and the display. In simpler terms, it prevents the transmission of illegal high definition content. HDCP compatible DVD players, set top boxes and PCs require a secure connection with HDTV compliant monitors in order to display the digital data. HDCP, which has been developed by Intel, and licensed by Digital Content Protection, LLC uses an authentication and key exchange method for protecting data interchange between source and display devices.
While the main purpose behind the development of HDCP is protection of digital data while transmission, the protocol ensures that graphic images are transferred without losing the clarity or quality of the original visual content. A number of protection controls keep the images from getting contaminated or distorted with other high band-width machines operating in that area. HDCP ensures that content is transferred over high bandwidths from a computer, DVD player or a satellite television receiver to an HDCP monitor while the original image remains free of any kind of static or snow.
Eventually, one will require HDCP capable monitors or video cards for watching high definition DVDs or Blu ray media. So in case you are planning to buy a new HD computer monitor or TV, then ensure that you get one that is HDCP compatible. For, while HDCP might not be the technology of today, it is definitely going to be the technology of tomorrow. While HDCP is currently not a standard used in PC monitors, some companies have started making such machines. Although PC monitors are HDTV capable, HDCP encryption limits this type of use. If you use an HDPC and want to ensure dual use of your new flat panel display, look for HDCP compatibility or you can check on line for HDCP monitor reviews in order to find the best HDCP monitor. As of today, these monitors are on the higher side price wise, but if you are planning to buy a new one that you might want to use for at least the next five years, then an HDCP processing monitor, even a small 20” one is a good investment. Gateway is one brand that is offering many HDCP compliant TV screens and computer monitors currently. In a very short time, you will require an HDCP enabled graphics card /software player that supports HDCP content, an HDCP compliant monitor, Blu-ray/HD-DVD drive and media and a DVI/HDMI monitor connection for playing high definition digital media. Most satellite networks like Comcast, DISH Network and DirecTV etcetra have started or will be transmitting HDCP content.
As HDCP is gaining popularity, people are already in the process of trying to hack HDCP codes and develop HDCP removal devices. One such device, Spatz-Tech’s DVIMAGIC, which is sold as a DVI amplifier, is also being promoted as an HDCP stripper. However, till date, HDCP has proved to be quite fool-proof and no stripper, converter or HDCP enabler has been successful in getting the better of HDCP.
