Atlona Launches USB to HDMI Converter Box for PCs, Macs

by , 1:15 PM EST, November 12th, 2008

Atlona Technologies has launched its USB to HDMI adapter box, the AT-HDPiX. The devices adds an HDMI port to any computer, is compatible with Macs, and has been tested with iTunes. It can display iTunes content on an HDTV via HDMI.

The device has applications ranging from digital signage to home theater and set up is as simple as plug and play,

HDPiX USB to HDMI Converter, front/back

Features include:

• HDTVs or Projector Compatible
• Resolutions supported up to UXGA 1600x1200 or 720p
• Up to 6 x AT-HDPiX could be used with one PC and up to 4 x AT-HDPiX with one Mac
• 32 bit True color depth of high quality images
• Capable of Mirroring or Extending Display
• Standard and wide-screen aspect ratios
• Compatible with all CRT and Flat Panel monitors
• Auto display ID using VESA compliant protocols
• Audio through 3.5mm (1/8-inch) stereo jack
• Embedded Audio into HDMI
• Quick and easy installation
• PC and Mac compatible
• Supports Windows 2000, XP and Vista, Mac OS X 10.4.1 and higher
• USB Powered (no external power needed)
• Includes software, USB cable and audio cable

The device is about 3.2 x 2.2 x 0.8 inches and weighs about 1 pound.

TMO spoke with an Atlona representative who confirmed that the devices has been tested with a Mac running iTunes, and the movie and TV content displayed properly on an HDTV connected via HDMI.

The Atlona USB to HDMI converter, Model AT-HDPix, is expected to ship December 15, 2008 and will be priced at US$179.

Atlona also mentioned that the company is working on a DisplayPort to HDMI converter box as well as a mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort converter cable for MacBooks (or other Macs that may use mini DisplayPort). Availability and pricing have not been set for those products.

Recently, TMO reviewed the new Netflix Silverlight plug-in (beta) that allows Netflix customers to stream content to a Mac. Combined with the Atlona devices above, Macintosh users will be able to watch their Netflix movies, even if streamed in high-definition (720p) at some point, on their HDTVs when, say, a MacBook/Pro is connected to the HDTV.