Blackmagic Design Micro Converter BiDirectional SDI/HDMI 3G (No PSU)

Blackmagic Design Micro Converter BiDirectional SDI/HDMI 3G (No PSU)

The Blackmagic Design Micro Converter BiDirectional SDI/HDMI 3G (No PSU) is the high-value, "converter-only" version of the 3G bidirectional model. It excludes the AC power adapter to reduce cost and waste, making it the perfect choice for professional installations where USB power is already available on-site.

It can convert SDI to HDMI and HDMI to SDI simultaneously, effectively giving you two separate broadcast-quality converters in a single metal housing the size of a matchbox.

Core Functionality

• Dual-Standard Conversion: Each direction is completely independent. You can convert an HDMI laptop feed to 1080p60 SDI for your switcher while simultaneously converting an SDI return feed from a camera at 1080i59.94 to an HDMI monitor.

• Blackmagic Camera Control: This is the primary reason many choose this model over generic converters. When used with an ATEM SDI switcher and a Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera, it translates the switcher's SDI control signals into HDMI. This enables remote control of the camera's iris, focus, color grading, and Tally.

• SDI Re-clocking: Features integrated re-clocking on the 3G-SDI output to regenerate the signal and reduce jitter. This allows for significantly longer SDI cable runs while maintaining signal stability.

• Automatic Handshaking: The unit automatically detects the input video standard and sets the output to match. If only one input is connected, both the HDMI and SDI outputs act as mirrored loop outputs.

Technical Specifications

Powering Without a PSU

Because this version does not include a wall plug, you must provide power via the USB-C port. This is actually the preferred setup for many 2026 workflows:

• Television Power: Plug the converter directly into the USB "service" or "power" port on the back of any modern monitor or TV.

• Rack Power: Use a high-density USB power strip in an equipment rack to power 10+ converters without using up dozens of AC outlets.

• Mobile Kits: Power the unit from a laptop, a camera’s USB-C output, or even a standard mobile phone power bank for field work.

Operational Insight

In 2026, the BiDirectional 3G is widely considered the "bridge" of choice for HD productions. It is frequently used to integrate HDMI-only gear into professional SDI infrastructures.

Troubleshooting Tip: If you connect a device and don't see a signal, use the Blackmagic Converter Setup utility on your computer. You can use it to toggle between SDI Level A and Level B. Many older broadcast monitors require Level B, while newer computer-based gear often defaults to Level A.

Since this model lacks the 33-point 3D LUT found in the 12G (4K) version, do you need it for critical color monitoring, or is it primarily for signal conversion and camera control?