HDMI-CEC to USB and RS-232 bridge

-- protocol converter


Purchase:

The three versions of the HDMI-CEC to USB Bridge have identical functionality as detailed in this downloadable PDF (HDMICECtoUSBandRS232v2.0.pdf). The only difference between the three is that their version strings are different to establish compatibility with PC integration software (detail below).


Google Checkout:

Qty:

PayPal Checkout:

NOTE: the PayPal option will allow you to choose/upgrade your shipping method AFTER you enter your payment information. This can be done on the "Review Your Information" page of the checkout process. (more shipping information below)


Description:

Both receive and send hex-codes on the single wire CEC bus present in HDMI cables. The USB tty (serial-port) and RS-232 serial device is compatible with both Windows and Linux without custom device drivers. Though not officially supported, it has been demonstrated to work with OS-X.

NOTE: To use this device as a bridge to RS-232 (9600 baud on 3-pin Phoenix connector), it must be powered via the USB port using either a connection to a PC or a USB mobile phone wall charger.

This device allows one to monitor and send CEC hex codes on the single wire bus using a USB tty (serial-port) or RS-232 serial port. Compatible with Windows (validated on XP, Vista and Windows 7) and Linux (validated on Ubuntu distribution) without additional host drivers. Please note that even though a custom driver is not needed for Windows, you will still need the device’s '.inf' file to match the product’s VID and PID to the Microsoft driver (downloadable here).

The CEC bus is sampled every .1ms using a microprocessor. When a start bit is detected and a complete frame read, the contents are converted to plain text hex digits and forwarded to the host through a USB connection. As an alternative to USB, the device also provides a RS-232 protocol interface via a 3-pin Phoenix connector.

The USB device is detected by the host as a tty serial device or port. Reading from this port allows a program to see everything that is passed on the bus. Writing to the port allows a program to place complete frames onto the bus.

For a detailed description of this device, command set, and how to use it, refer to this downloadable PDF (HDMICECtoUSBandRS232v2.0.pdf).

The detailed specification of the HDMI-CEC protocol and bus can be found here.

This device has been demonstrated to work with TVs from Samsung, Sharp, Sony, Toshiba, LG, Panasonic, and Mitsubishi. TV CEC capabilities vary widely. Many recent models can be powered on, off, and have the external HDMI input source chosen via CEC. If you additional questions, please see the contact page and write us an e-mail.


PC Integration Software:

The three versions of the HDMI-CEC to USB Bridge have identical functionality as detailed in this downloadable PDF (HDMICECtoUSBandRS232v2.0.pdf). The only difference between the three is that their version strings are different to establish compatibility with PC integration software.

ValkyrieTech HTPC Version
To understand the HTPC Windows 7 software and features made available by ValkyrieTech, visit ValkyrieTech's website for more information. If you have purchased the HTPC version of the bridge, the PC integration software can be downloaded from that site.

RC Aware HA Version
To understand the EventGhost plugin approach available from RC Aware, visit www.rcaware.com. The package includes software available from RCAware that consists of an EventGhost plugin that provides fully customizable HDMI-CEC control via macro editing of just about any CEC capable equipment and HTPC program including Media Center, MediaPortal, XBMC, SageTV, iTunes, DVBViwer, DVB Dream, and Cyberlink PowerDVD just to name a few. This can even make things like control from your Android phone or tablet, iPhone or iPad possible. Also leverages a custom driver to fully support “wake from sleep functionality”, something that is not supported with the PC’s default USB-to-serial port. If you have purchased the HA version of the bridge, you will receive a "coupon" directly from RCAware to dowload the software from that site for free (coupon typically arrives by e-mail within 1-3 days from purchase).

RainShadow Tech 'OEM' PARA Version
This version is for programmers and system integrators who would like to talk to the device directly via USB or serial port. It is not compatible with either ValkyrieTech's or RCAware's PC integration software.


Additional purchase information:

If you would like to purchase and evaluate an assembled device as pictured the cost is $67 (HTPC Version), $75 (HA Version), or $65 ('OEM' PARA Version) plus $6 flat rate shipping to anywhere in the US. Payment accepted via PayPal (james@rainshadowtech.com) or via Google Checkout above. Please be aware that the PayPal "Buy Now" option will allow you to choose/upgrade your shipping method AFTER you enter your payment information. This can be done on the "Review Your Information" page of the checkout process.

Lead time is less than a week for individual units; typically 1-2 days. Large orders require 8-13 weeks to fulfill.

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING — For $45, USPS will provide a tracking number and deliver to most places in about 5-7 days, and for $80, USPS will send it “Global Express" (uses FedEx as their "sub-carrier") in 2-3 days. UPS and FedEx will deliver for approximately $90 in 2-3 days. These devices can also be shipped international USPS Priority Mail for $25. Unfortunately, that price does not include a tracking number and delivery is typically 2 weeks and as long as 6 weeks. If you would really like this option, contact us ahead of time and we can send you a custom invoice.