"HAVi" is the acronym for home audio/video interoperability. HAVi is an advanced layer of communication protocols for devices using the IEEE 1394 (a.k.a. FireWire or i.Link) standard. IEEE-1394 allows home theater components to be networked using a high-speed, two-way digital interconnect. IEEE-1394 and HAVi are not the same thing, but they go together. IEEE-1394 is the cable connection used to network the devices together, while HAVi is the software behind the system that provides advanced features and ease of use. If IEEE-1394 and HAVi are successful, traditional A/V interconnects would not be needed in the connection of a system with all compatible devices. Devices in a network differ from those just connected with a/v interconnects because devices in a network have the ability to communicate with each other. Although networking your devices can be useful, when HAVi is used to its full potential, it should make things easier to use by incorporating advanced connectivity and functionality between components.
For example: When you connect a HAVi enabled VCR to a HAVi enabled digital television, the VCR tells the TV what it is, what it does, and how to control its functions. Once the communication is established, a one-wire connection will allow you to record and playback programs without the need to pick up the VCR remote. Through an on-screen display you tell the television what program you want to record and when. The TV then tunes in the appropriate program at that time and tells the VCR to wake up and begin recording. The TV then feeds the program's picture and sound through one cable to the VCR. When you are ready to view your program, you select "play" on your TV screen, and the TV tells the VCR to begin playback.
Although that's a simple overview of one thing HAVi can do, it can do a whole lot more. A system comprised of all HAVi devices would be seamless in its operation, and its ease of use would be astonishing. Not all devices must be HAVi enabled to get some benefit from them. In the example above, if a non-HAVi DVD player was connected to the system, the recording function between the HAVi TV and VCR should still work.
What's more, a complete system with six HAVi enabled components would only need five IEEE-1394 cables to completely connect all of the devices as opposed to 20-30 cables it takes today. An entire HAVi-based system would yield the most benefit, but would require you to replace every component in your rack. It's best to build a HAVi system over time, replacing components as your resources allow, or when you need to purchase new hardware.
HAVi has been around since 1999, but products using HAVi are still in their infancy. The most common HAVi enabled devices include HDTVs, D-VHS VCRs, and HD set-top boxes. Over time, HAVi will move to other home theater devices such as DVD players, surround receivers, and DVRs.
For more information about HAVi and how it works, visit the HAVi website.