PC HMDI output to TVONE Corio2 C2-2350A

[TIZAX]

Hi all, frequent reader here but first time poster.

I've been working on a retro gaming setup with a consumer CRT. Via switchers, everything is either output direct by RGB SCART or first converted to RGB SCART (CVS & YC via a Kramer 4044), all into one SCART input on the TV.

I've been wanting to get my laptop outputting into this setup, to watch stuff on the CRT and maybe look into some emulation of rare consoles I don't own - and playing them displayed on the CRT.

I luckily got my hands on a TVONE Corio2 C2-2350A, and have used the really useful walkthrough on here to program 240p output successfully, which I am sending out of the VGA15-pin connector to Scart with RGsB (am I right that this should side step needing to attenuate TTL sync voltage like with RGBS (to avoid damaging consumer kit)?).

My problem is at the PC end. I've tried to attach an HDMI cable out of the PC to the 15-pin input on the Corio2 using a Tendak dongle, but the PC does not register the need to output via HDMI. If I go to NVIDIA control panel (card is GeForce G210M), 'rigorous display detection' is fruitless.

I have had success using a different laptop outputting direct from VGA 15-pin, but in future I imagine this output is not going to be a viable option, so I'd rather make the HDMI avenue work.

Any ideas as to how I can force the laptop PC to output via HDMI? One possibility I'd thought of was to try using a powered converter / adapter to change HDMI to DVI (with separate audio out), might that create a handshake / feedback to trigger output from PC?

I had previously discounted the DVI input to the Corio2 as I read there was compatibility issues with HDCP; I don't have experience with that.

Some of you might be shaking your heads at my lack of PC knowledge / terminology - I'm definitely still relatively new to this arena especially with PCs, but am enjoying the journey of learning!

Thanks for your time and any suggestions.

[Fudoh]

You need an EDID emulator with HDMI passthrough. These are around $15 and plug between your video card and the next device in the chain. These help you to keep the video card active even with no monitor connected (or lacking communication between devices as in your case).

This said, there's a much easier way: your Corio 2350 has a DVI-D input, so you can simply use a HDMI to DVI-D cable without any kind of conversion. This should also solve your EDID problem as the DVI-D input on the Corio should provide active EDID communication on its own.

[TIZAX]

Amazing, thank you Don Fudoh for your response.

So EDID was the missing piece of knowledge. I'm glad it's an easy solution.

I think that the EDID emulator is likely the way I'll proceed as the HDMI to HMDI cable option facilitates easy audio extraction / bypass at the Tendak dongle.

Otherwise I think I would need a separate audio cable running from the PC, and as I may need to run the connection(s) over a distance of some metres - a single cable would be better. From what I gather any audio input to the Corio2 has to be via the screw terminals - which I'm trying to avoid using.

However, it's great to know the DVI port is a valid alternative here for PC video input, it could usefully facilitate a second PC / HD video input device.

Thanks again

[Fudoh]

HDMI to DVI + Audio converters are sometimes not much more expensive. Just sayin', before you rule out a digital connection completely.

[TIZAX]

I'd previously looked at those converters but at the time I wasn't sure about potential HDCP (or what turned out to be EDID) issues with the DVI input, so I'd stuck with the analogue input as it was proven by the walkthrough. Though, I guess that was written describing slightly simpler Corio models.

From what you've said, it sounds that providing the Corio2 with the pure digital source signal would be preferable to the dongle converted analogue signal?

If that is the case, and the converter provides the EDID required - that would suggest a digital convertor is the better buy, even if I have to find it a power socket. Is there a brand you'd recommend?

Thanks for your advice, I really appreciate it.

[Fudoh]

With a HDMI to DVI converter the EDID is usually passed through from the display, so your source would see the Corio unit, not the converter.

Some of the HDMI to DVI converters only provide digital audio output (SPDIF), others provide analoge output. I don't have any brand in mind, just see what's available, what's affordable and what offers the right connection for your needs.

[Maskman]

Hi,

Someone could share the 240p xml file for the C2-2350A please ?
How do you check the firmware version on the unit ?

Thanks.