Quick Media Switching (QMS)

HDMI 2.1 features Quick Media Switching for movies and video which eliminates the delay that can result in blank screens before content is displayed.

HDMI® Quick Media Switching (QMS)

Have you ever noticed a 1-3 second blackout when a new video starts up? HDMI 2.1b is designed to eliminate these blackouts.

With HDMI 2.1b, Quick Media Switching for movies and video uses the HDMI VRR mechanism to eliminate the blackout period when an HDMI Source device switches its video mode. As long as the resolution remains the same and only the frame rate changes, QMS will instantly switch between frame rates.

Qms Graphic

For example, when watching trailers from a streaming service or Blu-ray, some may be in 24Hz, 50Hz, or 60Hz. Before HDMI 2.1b with QMS, every time a trailer with a different frame rate is selected, either (1) the frames must be repeated using a specific cadence to compensate for the frame rate difference, introducing motion judder; or (2) the entire system must change its clocking and re-sync when the frame rate changes, causing an A/V blackout.

QMS eliminates A/V blackouts by using VRR technology to change frame rates, allowing instant changes from 24Hz to 60Hz frame rate, and anywhere in-between. The viewer never sees blank screens and gets a seamless experience.

(FAQ)

HDMI® Licensing Administrator, Inc. (HDMI LA) is the agent appointed by the HDMI Forum to license Version 2.1b of the HDMI Specification and is the agent appointed by the HDMI Founders to license earlier HDMI Specifications.

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