Blackmagic Micro Converters are compact, rugged broadcast tools that bridge HDMI and SDI signals with a suite of features designed for professional monitoring, live production, and on-set workflows.
Overview and key capabilities
The new Blackmagic Micro Converter models are incredibly tiny broadcast video converters that let you connect between consumer HDMI and professional SDI equipment. The rugged and miniaturized design makes them small enough to be used anywhere! You get professional 3G-SDI or 12G-SDI connections, depending on the models, so you can work with SD, HD and Ultra HD formats up to 2160p60. Micro Converters use USB for power, so they can be powered directly from televisions or laptop computers. You can even purchase them without power supplies!
This model has been specifically designed for professional monitoring. It includes a 17 point 3D LUT for color calibrating any monitor, projector or television. You can even output the 3D LUT on the SDI loop output! This model is perfect for connecting HDMI cameras and computers to professional SDI equipment!
You get two 3G-SDI outputs which can be set to level A or level B formats. Get the world’s smallest bidirectional broadcast quality converter! Convert SDI to HDMI and at the same time HDMI to SDI, even in different formats! This model is perfect for monitoring in all SD, HD, 4K and Ultra HD standards up to 2160p60. It includes a 33 point 3D LUT for color calibrating monitors. You can also output the 3D LUT on the 12G-SDI loop output!
This model is perfect for connecting HDMI cameras and computers to professional SDI equipment! You get two 12G-SDI outputs for connecting to SD, HD or Ultra HD equipment. When working in HD it supports 3G-SDI level A and B. This model can convert in both directions, in different standards at the same time! You can convert SDI to HDMI and HDMI to SDI simultaneously.
Formats and compatibility
Blackmagic Micro Converters are compatible with a wide range of SDI and HDMI formats, including 525i59.94 NTSC, 625i50 PAL, 720p50, 720p59.94, 720p60, 1080p23.98, 1080p24, 1080p25, 1080p29.97, 1080p30, 1080p47.95, 1080p48, 1080p50, 1080p59.94, 1080p60, 1080i60, 1080i59.94, and 1080i50, among others. 12G-SDI models add Ultra HD and 4K formats up to 2160p60. All models support SDI re-clocking to regenerate the SDI video and improve the SDI eye pattern for longer cable runs, which is vital in live production environments.
HDMI standards include 525i59.94 NTSC, 625i50 PAL, 720p50, 720p59.94, 720p60, 1080p23.98, 1080p24, 1080p25, 1080p29.97, 1080p30, 1080p50, 1080p59.94, 1080p60, 1080i50, 1080i59.94 and 1080i60. The Micro Converter 12G models support full HDR workflows with ST2108-1, ST2084 and ST425 metadata handling for PQ and HLG, as well as 2 new VPID bits to indicate transfer characteristics.
Power, control, and monitoring
Micro Converters are powered via USB-C, allowing power from the same device they are converting for, such as laptops or TVs. Some versions are available with AC power supplies for universal compatibility. They offer a USB-based converter utility for power, name changes, and device management on Mac and Windows. The USB power also enables on-set portability where a wall outlet might not be readily available.
Many models include a 3D LUT for color calibration, with the option to output the LUT through the SDI loop output. Some 12G-SDI models also provide dual outputs and bidirectional conversion with timecode support, making them suitable for modern HDR and broadcast workflows. LEDs provide status indicators for quick at-a-glance checks on set.
Practical use cases and workflow tips
Across scenarios, Micro Converters are designed to turn any computer display, TV, or projector into a broadcast-quality monitor when fed via HDMI into SDI infrastructure. They are also ideal for converting HDMI outputs of computers or consumer cameras to high-end SDI equipment. The compact form factor makes them easy to deploy on a set, in a van, or at a venue where space is constrained. For live events, you can power a Micro Converter from a portable battery pack or a television, enabling flexible placement around the set.
In multi-device environments, you can leverage the cross-conversion capabilities to route signals between HDMI and SDI ecosystems. When working with camera control, the bidirectional SDI/HDMI models can translate SDI camera control to HDMI to manipulate camera color, tally, and remote recording settings. The ability to apply 3D LUTs on-the-fly is particularly helpful for on-set monitoring and color grading previews.
Troubleshooting: common issues and solutions
Significant issues often relate to signaling standards and refresh rates. For instance, SDI inputs on devices like the TriCaster Mini SDI require broadcast frame rates (fractions such as 29.97 Hz, not exactly 30 Hz). If your laptop is outputting at 30 Hz or a non-broadcast rate, the TriCaster may not accept the signal. In such cases, configuring the source to 29.97 Hz is essential for compatibility. Additionally, SDI ports on some Mini SDI units operate at 1.5G, which can influence the choice of cross converters for level adjustments.
If a device shows an image on another external monitor but not through the TriCaster, consider using a cross converter that lets you adjust signal levels (Level A vs. Level B) to ensure compatibility with the TriCaster’s inputs. In some setups, deliberate use of a Level B signal may resolve mismatches that Level A devices fail to address. If you need to bridge HDMI to SDI in a complex workflow, a reliable cross-converter can be a practical workaround.
Power delivery and connector robustness can also cause intermittent issues. Micro USB / USB-C connectors can be fragile in rough environments; ensure cables are secured and, if possible, reinforce the connection to avoid accidental pulls. Testing with different sources (Mac vs PC) and different refresh rates helps isolate whether the problem lies with the source, the converter, or the receiving device.
Examples of product lines and models
Blackmagic Micro Converter HDMI to SDI 3G offers standard 3G-SDI outputs with Level A/B compatibility, HDR support in 12G-SDI variants, and LUT processing for monitoring. The broader Micro Converter family includes 12G-SDI variants with more extensive formats, timecode support, and multiple SDI outputs, enabling flexible configurations across HD and Ultra HD workflows.
In practice, for example, if you’re using an HDMI source like a MacBook Pro and an SDI-based switcher, a Micro Converter can bridge the two while preserving intended frame rates and color fidelity. When paired with a TriCaster Mini SDI, proper matching of frame rate (29.97 Hz for 1080p/59.94 signals) and level compatibility is crucial for reliable signal delivery.
Illustrative uses and setup ideas
Use case ideas include classroom demonstrations, live event monitoring, and on-set pre-visualizations where a computer display needs to be fed into SDI workflows. A workflow example: connect HDMI from the computer to the Micro Converter, use SDI outputs to feed a switcher or monitor wall, and leverage the 3D LUT for accurate color grading previews on set.
Another scenario involves HDR monitoring where 12G-SDI variants can carry 4K60p signals with PQ or HLG metadata, ensuring that the on-site HDR display matches the anticipated final output in post or broadcast environments.
Table of spec highlights
| Model | Inputs/Outputs | Key Features | Max Formats |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI to 3G-SDI | HDMI in, 2x 3G-SDI out | Level A/B, 3D LUT, USB power | SD, HD up to 1080p60 |
| HDMI to 12G-SDI | HDMI in, 2x 12G-SDI out | HDR ready, cross-conversion | HD to 4K up to 2160p60 |
| BiDirectional SDI/HDMI | SDI in/out, HDMI in/out | Bidirectional, timecode, LUT loop | All SD/HD/ UHD up to 2160p60 |
Practical tips for best results
- Use the USB-C power option when convenient; power stability helps prevent dropouts during long shoots.
- Enable and monitor SDI re-clocking to minimize jitter and support longer cable runs.
- Consider HDR metadata handling if your project requires PQ/HLG with ST standards.
- When interference or compatibility issues arise, test multiple source devices (Mac vs PC) at both 29.97 and 59.94/60 Hz where applicable, and adjust Level A/B as needed.
The Blackmagic Bidirectional SDI / HDMI converter micro converter. A must-have for camera every kit.
Notes on troubleshooting real-world scenarios
In practice, some systems may require exact broadcast rates like 29.97 Hz rather than 30 Hz to be accepted by SDI inputs on switchers or production consoles. If a signal is detected on a monitor but not on a TriCaster, check frame rate compatibility and level settings. A cross converter can be a practical interim solution when direct compatibility is elusive, especially if you need to bridge Level A/B standards. Always verify cabling integrity and power delivery, and consider updating the converter’s firmware via the included utility to ensure the latest improvements and fixes are installed.