Overview of MHL™ Standard
The MHL standard defines a new mobile interface to directly connect mobile phones and other portable consumer electronics devices to high-definition televisions and displays. It features a single-cable with a 5-pin interface able to support high-definition (HD) video and digital audio while simultaneously providing power to the mobile device. A specification was developed and is being supported by the MHL Consortium that consists of Nokia, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba and Silicon Image.
One of the main advantages of the MHL specification is that it enables manufacturers to utilize widely established connectors available in today’s mobile and CE products. Utilizing existing connectors saves valuable space in devices by keeping form factors small, allows for cost-effective implementation, and enables consumers to get more functionality and features from a single connector. Additional benefits include:
- HD video content with up to 1080p/60 picture quality
- Digital audio up to 192 kHz and capable of delivering 7.1 channel surround sound from a mobile device
- Low pin count interface that allows mobile devices to maintain their small form factor and keep implementation costs low
- Operation of the mobile device in MHL mode while 5 volts and 500 mA of power are simultaneously provided from an HDTV or other CE device
- Full support for High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) technologies for the safeguarding of high-value digital motion pictures, television programs and audio against unauthorized interception and copying
To obtain the MHL abridged draft specification, 1.0 specification, or become an adopter, please visit the MHL website at
www.mhlconsortium.org.