No eARC? No problem!
This app note shows you how to use an HDFury eARC adapter with the miniDSP Flex HT. This way you can use a display that doesn't have eARC – such as a computer monitor, projector or an older TV – together with the Flex HT. There are currently three suitable devices in the HDFury lineup. These can be bundled with a purchase of the Flex HT:
Note: miniDSP provides limited support for hardware and software that aren't miniDSP products. This application note demonstrates the use of miniDSP products together with other products.
Connections [Top]
The connections to the Arcana are simple as shown in Figure 1. The miniDSP Flex HT connects to the eARC out port. Your HDMI source connects to the HDMI IN port, and your TV, projector or monitor to the HDMI OUT port.
Figure 1. Connections of Flex HT to HDFury Arcana
The VRROOM adds more connectivity but the principle of use with the Flex HT is the same. Figure 2 illustrates the connections. The miniDSP Flex HT connects to the eARC AUDIO port. Your HDMI sources connect to the HDMI 0 to HDMI 3 ports, and your TV, projector or monitor to the HDMI TX1 port.
Figure 2. Connections of Flex HT to HDFury VRROOM
A practical example [Top]
We connected up the 4k Arcana and ran it through its paces. The 8k Arcana has the same connections as the 4k Arcana but additional video bandwidth and capabilities (such as VRR).
You will also need to connect power. Here's a photo with everything set up. The Flex HT of course has the HDMI input selected:
Connect your Mac or PC to the USB port of the Flex HT, start Device Console, and connect to the Flex HT. Then start something playing on your source device. You should see the meters moving on the Inputs tab of DC (if not, try turning up the volume control, as the input meters are after the volume control).
The Arcana also provides useful status information:
and some useful configuration options:
HDMI switch [Top]
While the VRROOM has multiple HDMI inputs, the Arcana has only one HDMI input. In that case, if you have more than one HDMI source, you will need to add an HDMI switch:
Note: Make sure that the HDMI switch as well as all cables are rated for the bandwidth you need, especially if it is 4k at 120 Hz. Older or lower quality spec might give you flickering or other problems.
Wrapping up [Top]
And that's it! Have fun, and please feel free to share your experiences with the HDFury devices in our community forum.
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