View Full Version : HDMI>USB -- Which way around is Best


Chris Harding
January 23rd, 2017, 11:26 PM
Hi Guys

Just a quick thought ..if you are using an HDMI camera, lets say 50' from your computer and vision mixer and are using an HDMI>USB converter would it be better to have the converter at the camera end and run active USB cable back to the desk or run HDMI cable to the unit at the computer? Does it make any difference. With our USB Conference cameras we just run USB active extender cables daisy chained up to 20 meteres (60') with no issues. I was told the maximum one can push HDMI was supposed to be around 30-40' at best so if it's better to have the conversion at the computer how far can you run HDMI cable without it freaking out the signal?

Phil Holder
February 1st, 2017, 07:24 AM
I don't really know which way around would be better. HDMI purpose built for audio and video, USB purpose built for data transfer. As far as I'm aware base HDMI cable length only 5 meters. But according to Cable Chick boosted HDMI can run 40meters. I looked at the price of the cables they are around $200 each.

Pete Cofrancesco
February 1st, 2017, 08:44 AM
Since the Usb cable limit is 3 meters, a HDMI signal booster would be the best solution.

Jon Fairhurst
February 1st, 2017, 05:12 PM
I've used HDMI -> CAT6 -> HDMI, and it worked great - 100m.

Phil Holder
February 1st, 2017, 06:55 PM
That"s one solution or HDMI to Fiber

Chris Harding
February 1st, 2017, 11:41 PM
Thanks Guys

I'm using wireless now ..so much easier but I did read that in the USA a run of 50' in homes is quite common for HDMI ... but I never tried it. Most capture devices still are based on the fact that your cameras are equipped with SDI .. and so many software based mixers are super fussy about whether your HDMI>USB capture boxes are compatible.

Donald McPherson
February 2nd, 2017, 12:27 AM
Hi Chris, which wireless system did you end up with?

Chris Harding
February 2nd, 2017, 01:05 AM
Hi Donald

LiveStream Broadcaster Pro since we use Livestream Studio ...it's simple and easy and I have the added advantage of being able to use it to stream with a single camera too when I need to move around all over and don't have anyone to run the computer. You obviously are stuck without graphics but for simple shoots it works great, In static situations I use it as a remote camera into Studio where I can do bonded streaming and add all the graphics and lower thirds I need to. Of course if you only have a basic account with LS you are stuck with them but suits us especially for weddings. If I have to go to Facebook or YouTube Live they are merciless about any commercial ambient music and all wedding ceremonies have entry and exit music chosen by the bride and not me, so not a good option.

How is your DIY wireless system working??

Steven Digges
March 1st, 2017, 10:35 AM
I would use proper HDMI cables and do the conversion at the computer. I have a very good quality passive HDMI 30' cable that works. I also have a 50' and a 100' HDMI cables with built in boosters. No power required, you don't even know the boosters are there but they work. They are directional cables.

Good cables:

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/770154-REG/KanexPro_HDMI50FTCL314_High_Resolution_HDMI_Cable.html

50' $89.00 - 100' $129.00

For runs of those lengths I still prefer SDI!

Steve