HDCP Requirements for Content

This article is to discuss HDCP (High-Definition Content Protection) requirements for common media formats and common issues with larger broadcast style environments like LED walls or Jumbotrons and broadcast style facilities in Stadiums, as well as individual use when trying to duplicate the image on a larger screen from a laptop or personal device.

More content formats are requiring HDCP to permit playback. This can be a requirement on Streaming media platforms, digital media files, Blu-ray discs, and even standard DVDs. When content requires HDCP it requires all components in the system from the source for the video to the screen to be able to pass HDCP. If it detects a break in the chain, it will not permit playback. 

We commonly hear about this in large stadiums with a broadcast room outputting to a LED wall or Jumbotron style screen, as well as individuals extending playback to TVs from personal devices. 

Only specific video connectors support HDCP. These are as follows: 

1. HDMI
2. DisplayPort
3. DVI (dual link)
4. USB-C Thunderbolt 3 (not all USB-C is Thunderbolt capable)
   *Please see the manufacturer's product documentation to determine if your device is HDCP compliant

Large stadiums with large LED walls or Jumbotron style screens are designed to accommodate video recording and broadcasting of custom content that is produced in house and not really designed for theatrical style playback. The following are some common issues that prevent HDCP:

1. These systems are typically wired and connected using SDI. SDI is not capable of supporting HDCP. Only HDMI, DisplayPort and DVI (dual link) are capable supporting HDCP. Any conversions to SDI, Coax, RCA or any other connection will drop HDCP.
2. Tri-casters and video switches being used with SDI will immediately drop HDCP. You *cannot* regain HDCP by converting to a supported connection
3. Another common culprit in these environments are HDMI audio splitters. Many of these will break HDCP as well and many are not fully visible as they may be a part of a larger video switching system like a Crestron or Extron switch. 
4. In many cases the screen itself is not HDCP complaint. This is the case with many LED wall devices, though it is said that newer LED walls are building in this capability now

Individuals using personal devices to stream content and extend content to a TV often report HDCP issues as well. This can be due to a few factors:

1. The device may not support HDCP output to the external monitor
2. An adapter inline may not support HDCP
3. Or the video may be on both screens. This can be resolved by only showing the video on the external screen rather than mirroring the screens