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  • Author Author: fustini
  • Date Created: Date Created
  • Views 958 views
  • Likes 1 like
  • Comments 4 comments
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Raspberry Pi HDMI to VGA converter

fustini

I recently bought a HDMI to VGA converter from Amazon for $27.45

 

SANOXY HDMI to VGA and Audio Converter (Support 1080P, Input HDMI, Video Output: VGA, Audio Output: 3.5 mm-outs)

(New, Fulfilled by Amazon, Sold by: US BIGBULL.LTD)


image

 

It "just worked" for me so far with no problems after a couple days of testing.  I'd previously disabled overscan and did not have to make any further configuration changes.  The Pi seems to automatically choose the correct resolution and ratio at bootup.

 

I've tried with a 20" ViewSonic 1080p LCD:

image

The ViewSonic also has DVI, so the converter wasn't really of much utility as already have a DVI to HDMI cable.  However, I have an old 4:3 LCD with VGA only that would be great to take along with my Pi for hackerspace visits.  The converter worked well with it, too:

image

Finally, the real impetus for purchasing the converter was to use a VGA-only projector for Pi demos:

image

The converter worked with it, too, when I just did a quick test at my desk:

image

 

Cheers,

Drew

http://twitter.com/pdp7

  • in reply to Former Member

    Yup, the Adafruit Pi Plate is quite handy especially with a small adhesive breadboard attached.  One of the things I like about the Adafruit Pi Box is that it can be used with the top on or off.

  • in reply to fustini

    Sorry this is off topic!  Drew, is that an Adafruit Pi Plate in those photos?  Did you just leave the top off the case to accomodate it?  Nice!

  • in reply to morgaine

    Do you have the Pi hooked up to the KVM just for inputs then? 

     

    I had been doing a similar VGA/DVI switching pattern with the 20" LCD monitor pictured up at top with PC on VGA and Pi on DVI.  I then have the keyboard and mouse connected to a USB switcher from Amazon.  Though you have me thinking now that I have the VGA converter I could use a normal VGA KVM and then only have to press one button to switch between PC and Pi (instead of 1 button on monitor and 1 button on USB switcher).

  • I had considered an HDMI-to-VGA converter before, but was dissuaded by price and the worry that the conversion would be poor quality.  This one has a nice price, and your experience is reassuring.  Useful report, thanks!

     

    I currently switch one of my two main monitors between Pi and various other hosts by selecting HDMI input on the monitor for Pi and VGA input for all the rest, which are attached to an 8-port VGA KVM running at 1920x1200, on a long run from the computer room.  Although the direct HDMI view is slightly crisper, the switchable KVM is more convenient so the HDMI-to-VGA converter is appealing.

     

    Once I've finished with hardware surgery on any Pi boards (and similar) on the worktable, I expect them to be relocated to a computer rack, either in the computer room or in the lounge.  It's somewhat dependent on Pi's problems being fixed before I can make a decision, so I'm not purchasing an adapter yet.  It's very much in mind though.