Jansicotek HDMI to 3RCA AV Converter 1080P PAL/NTSC USB Powered (Black)

What this converter does

The Jansicotek adapter changes an HDMI video and audio signal into a composite CVBS signal with stereo RCA output. It is built for users who need to connect a modern HDMI source such as a laptop or TV box to an older display, VHS VCR or DVD recorder that only accepts the yellow, white and red inputs. The unit supports both PAL and NTSC television standards and requires a 5 V USB power connection to operate.

When the step down is useful

The device takes a 1080P HDMI feed and scales it down to standard-definition 480i or 576i CVBS, so the jump makes sense only when the target equipment cannot handle high-definition signals. It will not work with streaming sticks, game consoles, phones or tablets, so buyers whose only sources are those devices should look elsewhere. The conversion is one-way from HDMI to RCA; there is no reverse path or upscaling capability.

Hooking it up and common pitfalls

No driver installation is needed, but the included USB power cable must be plugged into a 5 V supply before the converter will function. The compact enclosure measures 67 by 55 by 20 millimetres and weighs 37 grams, so it fits easily behind a rack or television. Forgetting the power connection is the most frequent reason the unit appears dead, and using an HDMI source that enforces HDCP can also prevent a picture from appearing.