Long HDMI run: problem

[Alan Gordon]

We purchased a 100 foot HDMI cable for use on our upcoming shoot for use with our monitor that we know works with HDMI. The cable we bought is a thick HDMI cable bought from Redco. Unfortunately the longer run caused HDMI not to work. (blu-ray does work over 100' cable...)

Are there any good methods of boosting the HDMI signal to make it reach the monitor?

If not, what is the longest successful HDMI run you guys have used?

Or any other methods of getting this to work would be appreciated. (unfortunately my preferred method of renting a good HD-SDI monitor is out)

-Alan Gordon
RED Tech/Data Wrangler
"No More Heroes"

 

[Jeff Kilgroe]

It depends on the signal strength at the source, but in general anything longer than about 25~30ft is too much for 1080p without amplification.

I would get a powered in-line signal booster (Gefen and others make them), or get a cable that includes the active booster. Or consider switching to CAT-6 baluns. You can run HDMI 1.3a 1080p @ 10bit over a single CAT-6 up to about 150ft or so. Fiber optic HDMI cables can go over 1500ft.

I've run HDMI over 120ft in two separate installations. Using amplified cables (signal booster built in w/ 5V AC adapter at the source). No problems.

 

[Alan Gordon]

Would this be what I'm looking for?

http://www.gefen.com/kvm/dproduct.jsp?prod_id=8161

From their website, it looks like you put the booster near the monitor, but you mention that the booster goes near the source (RED).

A booster near the monitor could work being plugged into AC, but near the source, that could be a hassle unless it draws power from the RED.

Also, what about this powered booster? It's half the price of the Gefen...

http://www.hdtvsupply.com/hdaceqexreex.html

 

[William Demeritt]

Not to recommend you start from scratch now, but why not get a 100' HD-SDI cable and an HD-SDI converter box to place near the TV? Get something that does HD-SDI to HDMI, like the AJA Hi5. I know, a lot more expensive than a $40 HDMI booster, but running that thick HDMI cable across the set seems odd to me.

Of course, I think like a Steadicam operator, so being tethered with a thick ass HDMI cable I can't break out from my sled just sounds tedious.

 

[Alan Gordon]

I agree that HD-SDI is a much better format, but right now our budget is tight.

As I've said usually I like going HD-SDI the whole way using a good pro monitor, but the director already had a HDMI monitor that he knew worked with the RED, we just didn't do enough research about long runs and are trying to salvage our purchase of the 100 fot HDMI cable.

-Alan