There are times when you need to send video back to a monitor or switch, but because most DSLR and Mirrorless cameras only offer HDMI out, you are limited to how far you can position the camera. To exceed the limits of HDMI, this HDMI to SDI Converter will allow you to use SDI cables for longer distances.
Wireless kits with HDMI input, like the Radian Pro Kit from Camera Motion Research allow a camera operator to move freely, but they will still have limitations and can be prone to drop outs if the feed has to be sent through walls, the receiver is too far, or if there is interference. Running an SDI cable with the Wireless HDMI Receiver attached at the end can help you minimize the distance your between your wireless system while still having the entire camera system over 100 feet away.
Radian Pro Wireless HD Video System with HDMI
So if you're looking for a way to get your cameras moved further from where you need to send your feed, these HDMI to SDI (not SDI to HDMI) converters are probably the cheapest you can find. It does require power, or in my case, i'm using an adjustable voltage Tekkeon battery pack. I've also tested this converter with a BlackMagic Pocket Cinema Camera, and it works if you're looking to send a long video feed from that camera. Check it out via Amazon (click here).
HDMI to SDI Converter Supports 720P/1080P
100 foot Black BJC 3G HD SDI cable, BNC to BNC
Other Products You May Be Interested In
If you need a cheap SDI to HDMI converter, like when adding an inexpensive EVF to a BlackMagic Cinema Camera, here's the one shown in the video.
USB Powered SDI to HDMI Converter
If you can afford to spend more on a product that converts an HDMI signal to SDI, can be powered for 11+ hours through a Sony NP-series battery, and also adds conversion, check out the more expensive Atomos H2S Converter (here).
Atomos H2S or S2H Connect Converter
Simon
I have fiddled a lot with the BM ATEM switchers and it is true that the HDMI output does not change despite the various input/output modes available.
I use AJA FS2 units to get around the restrictions of ATEM stuff but it's not a budget solution obviously.
Simon
Emm
Post author@Ivan Bercholz - Unfortunately it's not converted to true 24p. It's still 59.94. I have tried everything, and there's no way to get 24p from the HDMI output. This has been one of my headaches with my switch, but the new GH4 will allow true framerate output. I've already ordered (2) GH4 cameras.
Ivan Bercholz
@Emm When you have the gh3 signal converted to SDI, is it actual 24p or embedded in a 59.94i stream? I'm adding two gh3s to a live production sent to a mixer with other cameras. I won't have the gear to test before the day before the event, but I hope it's possible to send 24p from the gh3s to the mixer, as that is what the other cameras will be sending.
Emm
Post author@MovieBuff - Yes I understand, but I have an actual switch. Otherwise for the Magewell 'workflow' I would need to build out a custom PC with several Magewell adapters, etc. etc. I'm not only doing streaming, i'm actually capturing in full HD to another HDMI recorder. It's a totally different workflow than what I need at this time.
MovieBuff
The Magewell is for live switching.
Emm
Post author@MovieBuff - I need to send a signal to a Live Switch, not to USB. This looks pretty good though for other purposes.
MovieBuff
Does this compare?
AVerMedia CV710 Capture Uncompressed HD USB3.0 HDMI 1080p 60fps 30Mbps E2D1
MovieBuff
Brilliant!
)
MovieBuff
How does the converter compare to Magewell's? (Converts SDI/HDMI to USB3.0)
XI100DUSB-HDMI
https://www.magewell.com/hardware/usb3-0-capture-dongle/xi100dusb-hdmi/xi100dusb-hdmi_features.html?lang=en
XI100DUSB-SDI
https://www.magewell.com/hardware/usb3-0-capture-dongle/xi100dusb-sdi/xi100dusb-sdi_features.html?lang=en
Support up to 1920x1200p60 (CVT-RB) Video Input
Video output support up to 1920x1200p60 in YUY2
Video output support up to 1920x1200p60 in RGB24
The process of video and audio is done by the dongle and will not occupy CPU.
I hate the price, 300$ each.
CV
If you can get away with a 60ft run, the monoprice RedMere cables work flawlessly with my ATEM 1 M/E switcher at 1080.
John
Awesome set up Em! Can't wait to see what you learn.
Emm
Post author@John - I'm still working on refining the equipment for this project. Finding the right cameras for this BlackMagic Design Switch is key as they all have to match output. You can't mix a 24p signal with a 59.94i, and then if you throw in the Atomos Ninja, Intensity Extreme for live streaming it becomes even more convoluted. Audio from my wireless Sennheiser kit comes in mono on one side, so I had to add a 4 input XLR Yamaha Mixer that outputs stereo into the analog of the BMD switch.
There's so much going on right now, my head is spinning, but i'm actually documenting as I go so that others don't run into the same issues. I'm just lucky to have so much equipment to test with Cameras, Monitors, Converters, Audio, etc. I'm able to figure out what works, and what doesn't work. There will be more info on this project soon.
My live switch in 4U rack
John
Em, do you have any behind the scenes footage for when you are using this set up for the project mentioned?
Simon
Here is a tip when using the tiny and cheap "Mini SDI to HDMI Converter SD-SDI HD-SDI" - when you send a new signal to it, it may not recognize it and show you black screen until you power cycle the box. Perhaps this is why it has an ON/OFF switch. The converter with curved top does not seem to have this problem but does not come with a pre-made USB power cable with it. (It will work from one though)
Simon
Scott
o_O
I think Cheesycam has become sentient. It converted my text into a link directly to an ebay ad without me doing anything. (and got the same ad that I purchased, even...)
tl;dr I own two of these, and they're amazing. It's hit or miss whether DHL charges another 18$ for tax/duty on arrival.
Also, I for one, welcome our new cheesy robot overlords.
-S
Scott
The Oupree HDMI to SDI converter
is a nicer unit than the one you posted, and it's about 10$ cheaper. It also comes with mounting ears, making it easier to affix to a rig.
-S
Rob S.
The Atomos version is nice kit. Very compact. Would work well with their higher end monitors which is what it's for, of course. I wish companies would just do away with HDMI. A bad idea for cameras.