USB C to HDMI cables. Asking top level community members

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USB C to HDMI cables. Asking top level community members

I just read an amazing user tip by Dogcow-Moof explaining about the differences with USB C data and charging cables for our devices. Very expertly explained. I did actually know all that. But there is something else to do with cables and USB C connection from latest devices.

maybe a top level community member could do the same for the cables that go to screens or TVs. I noticed that a normal USB C to HDMI cable I had would connect my iPad Pro 12.9” M2 to my Sony Bravia gaming level TV well the devices recognised the connection but for some reason it showed up as black on my TV.

I am assuming the cable was not capable of transferring the 4K screen image from the iPad. So there are better cables that can support more data transfer which are obviously more expensive. A bit confusing.

an amazing User Tip like the one for USB C normal cables explained concisely might be very helpful.

when I looked into there seemed to be different level of cables with HDMI. But then I was wondering about the

Apple USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter

https://store.apple.com/au/xc/product/MUF82ZA/A

it just says HDMI if I bought that to take care of the USB C connection to device will that be able to handle the 4K screen image transfer to the TV too or will that be a choke point. The Apple description just says HDMI.

iPad Pro, iPadOS 17

Posted on Mar 9, 2024 1:30 AM

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LotusPilot

Community+ 2025

Level 10

301,724 points

Mar 9, 2024 6:37 AM in response to Euromikeym9

Perhaps this will be helpful in gaining a better understanding HDMI specifications:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HDMI#Specifications

For 4K video over HDMI, you will require a cable that meets at least HDMI 1.4 - HDMI 3.1 being the most advanced standard. For your iPad, an HDMI cable that meets HDMI 2.1 should be more than adequate for your needs.

USB-C to HDMI cables will, by definition, incorporate a built-in HDMI Adapter. While these cables offer a simple combined cable/adapter - and possibly offer a cost effective (i.e., cheaper) solution over a separate HDMI Adapter + Cable solution - they may not offer the best solution for your needs.

Be aware that Copyright (DRM) Protected content may require support for HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) - which requires that all "active" devices in the signal chain (source device, display/monitor, adapter/AV-switch etc.) also support HDCP. While HDCP is not a consideration for a basic HDMI cable, it is a factor where cables incorporate a built-in HDMI Adapter. For best compatibility, you should look for devices that support HDCP 2.0.

Not all Adapters and one-piece cables support HDCP - and for those that don't, you'll not be able to play-back DRM protected content; in such circumstances, you'll just see a black screen.

Apple's USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter and Lightning to Digital AV Adapter both support HDCP - although this is [surprisingly] not obvious from Apple's published specifications.

There are many third-party Adapters and USB hubs that incorporate HDMI connections - and surprisingly few support HDCP. Absence of HDCP will not impact connection to a basic monitor - but will prevent playback of DRM protected material.

You can find some additional information about HDCP here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-bandwidth_Digital_Content_Protection

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USB C to HDMI cables. Asking top level community members

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