High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is the port of choice for hooking together modern home-theater gear such as cable and satellite set-top boxes, Blu-ray disc players, and game consoles. While it's true that some HDTVs provide up to four HDMI inputs, these flexible sets are usually pretty expensive. Conversely, many value-priced HDTVs may provide only two HDMI ports, and some older sets are equipped with only one. The best way to add additional HDMI ports to your A/V setup is to use an HDMI switch, and the Monoprice HDX-401E HDMI Switcher ($39.10 direct) is the least expensive four-port switch we've seen yet. More important, the HDX-401E incorporates a rugged design that delivers glitch-free video performance with a variety of quality HD sources.

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In addition to the switch itself, the HDX-401E package includes a 5V DC adapter and a smallish IR remote. The product's lack of an included HDMI cable is normal for low-cost switches, but I was still mildly surprised that there's no included printed documentation either. All you get is a warranty card, and online documentation is limited to a generic Q&A area. At least the switch's four inputs and one output are clearly labeled.

Basically a matte-black metal box, the HDX-401E measures 1 by 7 by 3.4 inches (HWD). The port-status indicator lights on the switch's face are somewhat brighter than I prefer for a home-theater environment, but it's nothing that a little electrician's tape can't correct. An input selection button that doubles as a power switch is also located on the face of the device, and a pair of mounting holes on the bottom of the box can be used for permanently affixing the unit.

The HDX-401E's comfortably tapered seven-button remote control measures about 6 by 2 inches (LW), making it appreciably larger and easier to wield than the credit card–size controllers included with other switches such as the Accell UltraAV and the IOGear four-port auto-switch. The remote provided good communication from distances exceeding 20 feet and at off-axis angles exceeding 45 degrees. Button layout includes keys for specific input selection pl