Connecting Your Receiver To A Smallhd Monitor: Easy Steps

SmallHD has a range of wireless monitors that can be hooked to a receiver. The FOCUS Bolt Sidekick RX, for example, is a 5-inch daylight-viewable monitor with a built-in Teradek receiver. It has a touchscreen LCD, 800 nits brightness, a Micro HDMI input, and a 500' built-in wireless receiver. This monitor can work with the FOCUS Bolt 500 TX SDI monitor/transmitter and standalone Teradek 500 and 1000 transmitters. Alternatively, the 703 Bolt Wireless Monitor is a 7-inch Full HD monitor with a built-in Teradek receiver, featuring a 3000 nits brightness, 1 wireless and 2 SDI inputs, and a 500' built-in wireless receiver. This monitor is also compatible with the FOCUS Bolt 500 TX SDI monitor/transmitter and standalone Teradek transmitters.

Using a wireless monitor

SmallHD has partnered with Teradek to create a series of wireless monitors that simplify the setup process and provide a new level of convenience. These monitors come with built-in Teradek transmitters or receivers, enabling wireless connectivity.

The 5-inch daylight viewable monitor, for instance, features an 800 nits bright touchscreen LCD, Micro HDMI input, and a 500' built-in wireless transmitter or receiver. This monitor is compatible with the FOCUS Bolt RX (offering extended Teradek compatibility) and standalone Teradek 500 receivers, such as the LT, XT, and Sidekick II.

Another option is the FOCUS Bolt Sidekick RX, which has similar specifications to the 5-inch monitor but comes with handles included. This monitor is also compatible with the FOCUS Bolt 500 TX SDI monitor/transmitter and standalone Teradek 500, 1000, and 3000 transmitters.

For those seeking an even larger display, the 703 Bolt Wireless Monitor is the brightest 7-inch, Full HD monitor with a built-in Teradek receiver. It boasts a 3000 nits bright 7-inch LCD, 1x Wireless and 2x SDI input, and a 500' built-in wireless receiver. This monitor works seamlessly with the FOCUS Bolt 500 TX SDI monitor/transmitter and various standalone Teradek transmitters, including the 500, 1000, and 3000 series.

Alternatively, if you already own a SmallHD monitor, you can make it wireless by purchasing a wireless HDMI adapter, such as Google Chromecast. This adapter connects to your monitor's HDMI input plug and allows you to wirelessly transmit HD audio and video from your computer or receiver. The setup process typically involves connecting the adapter to your WiFi network and installing any necessary software. Once installed, you can use the 'Cast' option to mirror your computer's display to the monitor wirelessly.

Micro HDMI input

To hook your receiver to your SmallHD monitor using a Micro HDMI input, you will need a Micro HDMI to Micro HDMI cable. SmallHD offers a 3' Micro-HDMI to Micro-HDMI Cable for Focus Monitors, which is available on Amazon.

Once you have the correct cable, follow these steps:

• Connect the Micro HDMI cable to the Micro HDMI input on your SmallHD monitor. The Micro HDMI input on the monitor is typically located on the back or side of the device.
• Connect the other end of the Micro HDMI cable to the Micro HDMI output on your receiver. Again, this port is usually found on the back or side of the receiver.
• Ensure that both the monitor and the receiver are powered on.
• If needed, adjust the input settings on your SmallHD monitor to select the appropriate video input source (HDMI). The process for doing this will vary depending on your specific monitor model, so refer to your monitor's user manual for detailed instructions.
• Finally, test the connection by playing content through your receiver and ensuring that the video and audio are displayed correctly on the SmallHD monitor.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully hook up your receiver to your SmallHD monitor using a Micro HDMI connection.

Using a converter

HDMI to VGA Converter

If your SmallHD monitor has a VGA input instead of HDMI, you can use an HDMI to VGA converter. This will allow you to connect devices with HDMI outputs, such as streaming devices, DVD players, or cable boxes, to your VGA input. Simply connect the HDMI output from your device to the converter and then plug the converter into the VGA input on your monitor.

HDMI Audio Extractor

If your SmallHD monitor has an HDMI input but lacks audio or has poor audio quality, you can use an HDMI audio extractor. This device will extract the audio signal from the HDMI connection and allow you to connect an external speaker or soundbar for better sound. Connect your HDMI cable from the cable box to the extractor, then use a second HDMI cable from the extractor to your monitor for the video signal. Finally, connect an audio output cable from the extractor to your chosen speaker.

Digital-to-Analog Converter

If you have an old receiver that cannot decode digital audio signals, you may need a digital-to-analog converter. This will convert the digital signal from your TV's output jacks to an analog signal that your receiver can use. Common types of TV output jacks include optical digital outputs (TOSLINK) and coaxial digital outputs (RCA style). The converter will typically cost around $18-$25 and may or may not include the necessary cables.

RF Modulator

If your old receiver doesn't have AUX, DVD, or CD audio input options, you can use an RF modulator to convert an RCA connection pair to a radio frequency signal that the receiver can accept. You will also need a 75Ω to 300Ω adapter and a coaxial cable to connect to the receiver's 300Ω antenna lead terminals. Once connected, tune the receiver to the provided frequency to receive the audio signal.

Connecting to a video projector

If you want to connect your receiver to a video projector, you will need to determine the types of connections available on both devices. Most projectors have multiple input options, including HDMI, VGA, DVI, and USB. Similarly, receivers will have a variety of input and output ports, such as HDMI, optical, and RCA.

• Identify the available ports: Check the back of your receiver and projector to see what types of ports they have. Common ports include HDMI, VGA, DVI, and USB.
• Match the ports: Look for matching ports on both the receiver and the projector. For example, if both devices have HDMI ports, you can use an HDMI cable to connect them.
• Use adapters if needed: If the ports don't match, you may need to use adapters or converters. For instance, if your receiver has an HDMI output but your projector only has a VGA input, you can use an HDMI-to-VGA adapter.
• Connect the devices: Use the appropriate cable to connect the receiver to the projector. Ensure that the cable is securely plugged into both devices.
• Set the input: On your projector, locate the input settings and select the appropriate input source that matches the connection type you are using. For example, if you connected the receiver to the projector using an HDMI cable, select the HDMI input on the projector.
• Test the connection: Once the devices are connected and the input is set, turn on both the receiver and the projector. Play some content through the receiver to ensure that the video and audio are displayed correctly on the projector.

It is important to note that the specific steps may vary depending on the models of your receiver and projector, so it is always a good idea to refer to their user manuals for detailed instructions.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully connect your receiver to a video projector, allowing you to enjoy your favourite content on a larger display.

Using a VGA cable

To hook your receiver to your SmallHD monitor using a VGA cable, follow these steps:

First, some background on VGA cables. VGA stands for Video Graphics Array, and it was developed in 1987 by IBM. It is a standard connector used for computer video output and is mainly used to connect computers and laptops with screens and monitors. A VGA cable has 15 pins, and the connection looks like a trapezoid with two screw holes on either side. The VGA connection on your device is a female 15-pin D-sub port, and the cable will have a male connector.

Now, for the steps to hook up your receiver:

• Purchase the proper cables. You will need a VGA cable and a 3.5 mm audio cable if you want to transmit sound. The audio cable ensures that you can hear sounds from your computer.
• Connect one end of the VGA cable to your receiver. Make sure that your receiver is turned on. The VGA port is likely to be shaped like a trapezoid with two screw holes on either side.
• Connect the other end of the VGA cable to your SmallHD monitor. If your monitor does not have a VGA port, you may need to use an adapter, such as VGA-to-HDMI. Ensure that your monitor is turned on.
• Connect the audio cable to both devices. Plug one end of the 3.5 mm audio cable into the headphone jack on your receiver, and connect the other end to the audio output on your monitor. You can also connect the cable to external speakers or a stereo system if you prefer.
• Switch the monitor input. Your monitor should automatically detect the new connection. If it doesn't, change the input to match your receiver, which may be labelled VGA, D-Sub, or PC-Input.
• Adjust the projection (optional). By default, your receiver's screen should be mirrored on the monitor. If you want to change this, you can adjust the settings on your receiver.

Now you have successfully hooked your receiver to your SmallHD monitor using a VGA cable!

Frequently asked questions