StarTech.com 3ft HDMI to Mini DisplayPort Cable 4K 30Hz - Active Adapter Converter with Audio - USB Powered - Compatible with Mac & Windows - Male to Male Video Adapter Cable

Overview

The StarTech.com 3ft HDMI to Mini DisplayPort Cable is a high‑performance, active video converter that bridges the gap between HDMI sources and Mini DisplayPort displays. Designed for both Mac and Windows environments, this cable delivers full 4K resolution at 30 Hz while preserving multi‑channel audio up to 7.1 channels. Its USB‑powered architecture ensures reliable signal conversion without compromising on image quality.

Design & Build Quality

Encased in a robust black housing, the cable measures 1 meter (3.3 ft), providing ample length for flexible placement. The connectors are standard HDMI Type‑A male and Mini DisplayPort male, both featuring straight form factors that fit seamlessly into most devices. The cable’s outer dimensions—42 cm long, 43.5 cm wide, 41.5 cm tall—make it easy to manage in tight spaces.

The internal circuitry is powered by a dedicated USB connection, which supplies the active converter chip (MegaChips Technology – STDP2600) with the necessary voltage for signal processing. This design eliminates the need for external power adapters and ensures consistent performance across varied operating environments.

Technical Specifications

• Maximum Resolution: 3840 × 2160 pixels (4K)
• Maximum Refresh Rate: 30 Hz
• Audio Channels Supported: Up to 7.1 surround sound
• DisplayPort Version: 1.2
• HDMI Version: 1.x (compatible with HDMI 1.4 and newer)
• Connector Types: HDMI Type‑A male, Mini DisplayPort male
• Power Source: USB‑powered (requires a USB port for power)
• Operating Temperature: 0 °C to 70 °C
• Storage Temperature: –10 °C to 55 °C
• Humidity Range: 5 % to 90 %
• Compliance: CE, RoHS certified

Performance Highlights

The active conversion technology ensures that the HDMI signal is accurately translated into a Mini DisplayPort format without loss of detail or color fidelity. Users can enjoy crisp 4K imagery even when connecting to high‑resolution displays such as Apple MacBook Pro Retina screens, Dell UltraSharp monitors, and other compatible devices.

Audio passthrough is fully supported; the cable carries up to 7.1 channels of digital audio, making it ideal for home theater setups or professional audio monitoring where surround sound fidelity matters.

Compatibility

• Operating Systems: macOS (10.9 and newer), Windows 7/8/10/11
• Source Devices: Laptops, desktops, gaming consoles, Blu‑ray players, streaming boxes with HDMI output.
• Target Displays: Any device featuring a Mini DisplayPort input—MacBook Pro Retina, Dell XPS, Lenovo ThinkPad, and many external monitors.

Power Requirements & Setup

The cable draws power from a USB port; simply connect the provided USB plug to any available USB 2.0/3.0 port on your computer or an external USB hub. No additional power supply is required, which keeps the setup clean and portable.

1. Connect the HDMI end to your source device.
2. Attach the Mini DisplayPort end to your display.
3. Plug the USB power cable into a USB port.
4. Power on both devices; the converter should automatically detect and configure the optimal settings.

Troubleshooting Guide

No Display: Verify that the USB power connection is secure. Try a different USB port or cable if necessary.

Low Resolution: Ensure that your source device is set to output 4K at 30 Hz. Some devices default to lower resolutions when connected via adapters.

Audio Issues: Check the audio settings on both the source and target devices. The converter supports up to 7.1 channels; if you only hear stereo, confirm that your source is configured for multi‑channel output.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use this cable with a 60 Hz display? The converter supports a maximum refresh rate of 30 Hz. For displays requiring 60 Hz, an alternative adapter or direct HDMI connection is recommended.
• Is the cable compatible with HDMI‑to‑DisplayPort adapters that are passive? No; this product is an active converter and requires USB power for proper operation.
• Will it work with a Windows laptop that has only a single Mini DisplayPort output? Yes, as long as the laptop provides an HDMI input or you use an external HDMI source.

Conclusion

The StarTech.com 3ft HDMI to Mini DisplayPort Cable delivers reliable, high‑quality video and audio conversion for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Its active design, USB power supply, and support for 4K resolution with multi‑channel audio make it a versatile solution for bridging modern HDMI sources to Mini DisplayPort displays across both Mac and Windows platforms.