The new HDMI Active Optical Cable (AOC) from Furutech, snappily dubbed HF-A-NCF, employs four OM3 multimode optical fibres to transport the digital HDMI signal alongside seven high-grade copper conductors for communication protocols. This, we are assured, enables lossless signal transfer over longer distances than possible with standard copper HDMI cables. Furthermore, the Japanese cable and connector specialist states that this method reduces the risk of EMI and RFI interference.

Furutech says that the HF-A-NCF cable has been purposely limited to a diameter of 4.7mm so that it is incredibly light and flexible while still delivering the highest possible performance.

Naturally, being a Furutech cable, you can expect the brand's propriety special sauce in the mix, starting with the HF-A-NCF's cable clamp incorporating the manufacturer's electrical and mechanical damping material, NCF (Nano Crystal2 Formula). This, we are told, features a special crystalline material with two 'active' properties. Apparently, it generates negative ions that eliminate static while also being able to convert thermal energy into far-infrared.

Furthermore, Furutech says it combines this material with nano-sized ceramic particles and carbon powder for additional 'piezoelectric effect' damping properties.

Of course, insulation is also essential. Here the 24AWG copper conductors are insulted with FOAM-PE-SKIN while special LSZH insulation is utilised for the optical fibres. Additionally, double layer aluminium foil shielding for each twisted conductor prevents EMI and eliminates noise and crosstalk.

The upshot of all this is that electrical and mechanical vibration and static derived noise are eliminated. According to the press release, the results include increased sound resolution, blacker backgrounds, and a boost in colour vividness.

Meanwhile, the cable's connectors feature “special photoelectric conversion circuitry” to deliver the ultimate in balanced signal amplification. The optical converter circuitry is powered by the HDMI interface, so there is no need for power from an external supply.

All metal parts are treated with Furutech's two-stage 'Alpha' cryogenic and demagnetisation process, designed to render the metal stress-free, stable and highly electrically conductive, enabling that all-important Furutech goal of 'pure transmission'.

The Furutech HF-A-NCF is available in 1.5m (£220), 3m (£285), 5m (£350), 7.5m (£435), 10m (£500),15m (£625), 20m (£750) lengths with the
1.5m and 3m lengths tested to Furutech in-house standards. All other sizes are ATC 8K V2.1 certified.

Visit Furutech for more information