Distributing video source to multiple devices

[Claus Good]

Hi there
I am working at a music venue were we have a high definition camera directed at the stage that shows the live show on a large screen on either side of the stage.

Since we are running very long cables, and we still want a very high quality picture we are running HDMI from the camera to a HDMI splitter and then HDMI to a converter that converts it to cat5 and then about 75 meters (about 250 ft.) Then convert it back to HDMI and in to the screen. This works like a dream. All this is on a closed system so it can not be broadcasted on the internet in accordance with distribution laws and to prevent illegal broadcasting. We have had requests from several bands who would like a copy of this video for private use, to see, correct and tweak their on stage performances.

There area a lot of video capture cards out there, with a lot of different input methods, but are there cards that can take cat5 directly for the purpose of recordin? And if so, what are they called.

Hope anyone can help me
Regards
Claus

 

[basroil]

CAT5, no. You'll need to convert it back to HDMI.

Have you considered using HD-SDI instead? There's plenty of recorders for that (some under $200 too), and will work up to about 100m.

If you plan on sticking with CAT->HDMI, you'll need an HDMI recorder like the HD60 or anything from black magic and other pro companies.