How to convert Coax to HDMI

Most manufacturers make new models of their TVs already without a coaxial connector. On the other hand, a TV can have multiple HDMI, USB, and component connectors, but does not have a coaxial connector. If you have an older cable or satellite set-top box that only outputs a coaxial signal, you may have trouble connecting the two devices.

You might think that coaxial cable is long obsolete, but there are plenty of different devices that require this cable and which we still use today. If you’re still using an old VHS player or an old game console, or maybe you’re using an antenna, you have many options.

So, in this article, we are going to tell you how to convert the coaxial cable to HDMI.

What does coaxial connection mean

A coaxial cable is an electrical cable consisting of a central wire and a metallic braid separated by a dielectric layer (internal insulation) and encased in a common external shell. Coaxial cable was until recently the most widely used, which is due to its high noise immunity (due to the metal braid), as well as higher than in the case of twisted pair, allowable data transmission speeds (up to 500 Mbit/s), and large allowable transmission distances (up to a kilometer and above). It is more difficult to physically connect to it for unauthorized sniffing of the network, it also gives noticeably less electromagnetic emissions to the outside.

This technology was used until recently, first in radio and telegraphy, then in television, and then in broadband communications. This technology was eventually replaced by fiber optics or other technologies that provide higher data transfer rates. 

Although coaxial cable is insulated, the signal requires frequent repeating and is prone to data loss over distance. Coaxial cable was popular because at the time it was superior, cheap, and easy to use. Fiber optic is faster and can transmit more data at the same time. Although fiber optic requires a larger initial investment, it needs less maintenance.

What does HDMI mean

HDMI, or High-Definition Multimedia Interface, is a modern alternative to coaxial cable. It is used to transmit signals between devices with as much data as possible for high or ultra-high definition broadcasts. It can also transmit sound.

HDMI is purely digital, so it is isolated from loss and does not need frequent repetition over distance. It can transmit more data over a distance of the same size at higher speeds. Digital transmissions are not susceptible to interference if the correct configuration is used, so it is very useful in large families with many different devices that connect to WiFi and do not conflict.

How to convert coaxial cable to HDMI

If you have indoor or outdoor antennas with coaxial cable and no coaxial input on your TV, you will need a simple OTA adapter from coaxial cable to HDMI, which costs $30 to $50. The low price is due to the fact that no major conversion components are required because over-the-air signals are not encrypted like cable TV.

If you want to convert the coaxial cable to HDMI, you have to follow these steps:

• First of all, connect your coaxial cable from your source to the “Coax In” connector on the adapter;
• After that, plug an HDMI cable into the “HDMI Out” on your adapter:
• Connect the other end of the HDMI cable to the TV;
• Then, make sure that both of your devices are turned on;
• Set the adapter to channel 3 or 4 to receive a coaxial signal;
• Finally, set your TV to the appropriate HDMI input.