AJA Video Systems released two new Mini-Converters at NAB 2009: the Hi5-3G and the HDP2. These Mini-Converters are designed both for the broadcast and postproduction display markets and provide support for a wide array of the latest video and audio formats.

The Hi5-3G converts 3G-SDI, Dual or Single Link HD-SDI, or SD-SDI to HDMI v1.3a for driving HDMI monitors. HDMI v1.3a capability with Deep Color support at 30 and 36 bits per pixel provides integration with the latest 10-bit monitors. Audio is supported in the HDMI output, allowing a convenient single cable audio/video connection. The Hi5-3G provides 2-channel RCA style audio outputs for separate audio monitoring if needed.

The HDP2 is a miniature HD/SD-SDI to DVI-D converter for digital display devices such as LCD, DLP and plasma monitors or projectors. Using a high-quality scaling engine and deinterlacer, the HDP2 will automatically size 4:3 or 16:9 video inputs to many DVI-D monitors. For appropriate monitor configurations, scaling is automatically 1-to-1—for example, displaying 1920x1080 video on a WUXGA (1920x1200) monitor.

The HDP2 will automatically adapt the input frame rate for monitor compatibility. In addition, the HDP2 provides 2-channel audio monitoring and a looping output of the SDI input. The HDP2 is designed for general monitoring and is appropriate for use in applications such as general postproduction reference monitoring, client monitoring, presentation, projection, corporate displays and kiosk applications. The HDP2 also supports HDMI v1.3a Deep Color (with a DVI-to-HDMI adapter). In the HDMI mode, Deep Color is supported at 30/36 bits per pixel with 8-channel audio.

HDP2 replaces the HDP.

Both the Hi5-3G and the HDP2 provide USB connectivity to allow for easy PC/Mac setup and field upgrades, and are backed by AJA's five-year warranty.

"We've been making many of the industry's most popular video converter products for over 15 years, and our Mini-Converters are known for their great price/performance ratio," said Nick Rashby, president, AJA Video Systems. "With these two new Mini-Converters, we're building new and unique functionality that responds directly to our customer's demands."

Price and Availability
Hi5-3G has an MSRP of $690, and HDP2 also has an MSRP of $690. Both products will be available in May.