Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.
I'm curious; How about DP; Could THAT support 4K 120Hz (ie, no HDMI involved)? ?
 
i
No need to be terse with them. They’re having a conversation. If you find them irritating, why even respond? I appreciate that they’re trying to clarify their thinking, to understand the boundaries of this standard.
its not like the explanation is clear either ,not even sure what explanation he's referring to tbh
 
I'm curious; How about DP; Could THAT support 4K 120Hz (ie, no HDMI involved)? ?
Yes. I have a M1 Max 16” driving two 4k/144hz displays through dp 1.4 to usb c adapter. One directly connected and then another through a tb4 dock (razer) and another dp 1.4 to usb c cable. Expensive workaround.. but they look awesome.

Displays are Eve Spectrum.
 
So, if we have 4K 120Hz on DP, why shouldn't a DP -> HDMI 2.1 converter work, as OP asked...?
macOS thinks the output is to the DP, so it can't be software, as long as the adapter works as it should, it should work.
Right? ?
 
So, if we have 4K 120Hz on DP, why shouldn't a DP -> HDMI 2.1 converter work, as OP asked...?
macOS thinks the output is to the DP, so it can't be software, as long as the adapter works as it should, it should work.
Right? 🤔
Because the video interface information is passed via the EDID handshake when the connection is made. The Mac will know that the end device is HDMI regardless of the types of connections and cables in between. If one of the other posters on this thread is right that Apple (either hardware or software) is not allowing those higher speed connections via HDMI this workaround won't work.

There are devices from companies like HD Fury that will intercept the EDID information and change it to whatever you want. Someone could reach out to them and verify whether something like the DR HDMI 8K could send DP video interface info, then understand the Mac's resulting DP output and translate it to your desired resolution/framerate over HDMI.
 
Because the video interface information is passed via the EDID handshake when the connection is made. The Mac will know that the end device is HDMI regardless of the types of connections and cables in between. If one of the other posters on this thread is right that Apple (either hardware or software) is not allowing those higher speed connections via HDMI this workaround won't work.

There are devices from companies like HD Fury that will intercept the EDID information and change it to whatever you want. Someone could reach out to them and verify whether something like the DR HDMI 8K could send DP video interface info, then understand the Mac's resulting DP output and translate it to your desired resolution/framerate over HDMI.
macOS has methods to override the EDID (at least for Intel Macs). A DisplayPort to HDMI adapter identifies itself using DisplayPort DPCD so an EDID override (whether with software or hardware) is not going to help.
Anyway 4K 120Hz does work with DisplayPort to HDMI 2.1 adapters with Intel Macs (8bpc RGB no DSC)
https://gist.github.com/adaugherity/7435890?permalink_comment_id=4043783#gistcomment-4043783
And we've seen 8K 60Hz (8bpc 4:2:0 no DSC) in the other thread.
https://forums.macrumors.com/thread...-2-0-displays-on-mac-pro-yes-you-can.2309750/
 
... Happily they have not done that, but other PC vendors can/will.
Isn't it worse than this? I recall something about HDMI no longer certifying HDMI 2.0 at all, so all new products, whether they want to or not, will definitely market as 2.1, even if they have zero of the new features, because 2.0 ⊆ 2.1 --- in other words, 2.0 is a subset (not a proper subset) of 2.1, so for all intents and purposes, any 2.0 compliant machine is also 2.1 compliant, which is balderdash.
 
  • Wow
Reactions: throAU
Because the video interface information is passed via the EDID handshake when the connection is made. The Mac will know that the end device is HDMI regardless of the types of connections and cables in between. If one of the other posters on this thread is right that Apple (either hardware or software) is not allowing those higher speed connections via HDMI this workaround won't work.

There are devices from companies HD Fury that will intercept the EDID information and change it to whatever you want. Someone could reach out to them and verify whether something like the DR HDMI 8K could send DP video interface info, then understand the Mac's resulting DP output and translate it to your desired resolution/framerate over HDMI.
macOS has methods to override the EDID (at least for Intel Macs). A DisplayPort to HDMI adapter identifies itself using DisplayPort DPCD so an EDID override (whether with software or hardware) is not going to help.
Anyway 4K 120Hz does work with DisplayPort to HDMI 2.1 adapters with Intel Macs (8bpc RGB no DSC)
https://gist.github.com/adaugherity/7435890?permalink_comment_id=4043783#gistcomment-4043783
And we've seen 8K 60Hz (8bpc 4:2:0 no DSC) in the other thread.
https://forums.macrumors.com/thread...-2-0-displays-on-mac-pro-yes-you-can.2309750/

No one is disputing that workarounds work on Intel.
 
mac doesn't support hdmi 2.1 at the hardware level, the intel and m1 gpus just can't do it. it's not a bandwidth thing. that's why you need an adaptor. the catch is the adaptor has to be compatible with mac's gpu, or it won't work.

I know realtek has been working on a dp 1.4 to hdmi 2.1 adaptor chip, and it's out now but I don't know if it works for macs. you'd need to somehow do tb4 -> dp 1.4 -> hdmi 2.1 probably through the use of a tb4 dock.


hardware level:

the graphics cards of the intel and m1 macs don't support hdmi 2.1, so you need an adaptor that can convert the tb4 or display port signals into hdmi 2.1.

an example would be CableMatters' usb c to hdmi 2.1 adaptor

Unfortunately, not all adaptors are compatible with all graphics cards, so the above adaptor doesn't work for macs since the current macs don't have a 2000 series nvidia card

"For Apple users, recent-generation MacBooks using the same Intel CPUs, or the new Apple M1 processor developed with ARM, can support a maximum resolution and refresh rate of 4K at 60Hz without HDR when using the adapter."

"The USB-C to HDMI 2.1 adapter can connect any device from the Nvidia 2000-series (using its VirtualLink USB-C connector) to an 8kTV, or one that supports 4K at 120Hz, like the LG Signature ZX, or the Samsung Q90T."


So really, you have to wait for someone to release an adaptor capable of converting to hdmi 2.1 that works with mac's gpu.

but if you just want 120hz or 144hz, you can use tb4 or dp 1.4 and that will work fine. just not hdmi

if you just want 4k 120hz on your mac, check out this compatibilty list between various Macs and various 4k 120+ Hz displays.

software level:

In terms of choosing the resolution you want if it isn't available in macs preferences, you can check out SwitchResX. It's software that let's you directly set refresh rates and resolutions without using system preferences

sources:







 

Attachments

  • Screen Shot 2022-01-30 at 3.39.30 PM.png
    Screen Shot 2022-01-30 at 3.39.30 PM.png
    358.5 KB · Views: 952
  • Like
Reactions: Zorast
mac doesn't support hdmi 2.1 at the hardware level, the intel and m1 gpus just can't do it. it's not a bandwidth thing. that's why you need an adaptor. the catch is the adaptor has to be compatible with mac's gpu, or it won't work.

I know realtek has been working on a dp 1.4 to hdmi 2.1 adaptor chip, and it's out now but I don't know if it works for macs. you'd need to somehow do tb4 -> dp 1.4 -> hdmi 2.1 probably through the use of a tb4 dock.


hardware level:

the graphics cards of the intel and m1 macs don't support hdmi 2.1, so you need an adaptor that can convert the tb4 or display port signals into hdmi 2.1.

an example would be CableMatters' usb c to hdmi 2.1 adaptor

Unfortunately, not all adaptors are compatible with all graphics cards, so the above adaptor doesn't work for macs since the current macs don't have a 2000 series nvidia card

"For Apple users, recent-generation MacBooks using the same Intel CPUs, or the new Apple M1 processor developed with ARM, can support a maximum resolution and refresh rate of 4K at 60Hz without HDR when using the adapter."
"The USB-C to HDMI 2.1 adapter can connect any device from the Nvidia 2000-series (using its VirtualLink USB-C connector) to an 8kTV, or one that supports 4K at 120Hz, like the LG Signature ZX, or the Samsung Q90T."

So really, you have to wait for someone to release an adaptor capable of converting to hdmi 2.1 that works with mac's gpu.

but if you just want 120hz or 144hz, you can use tb4 or dp 1.4 and that will work fine. just not hdmi

if you just want 4k 120hz on your mac, check out this compatibilty list between various Macs and various 4k 120+ Hz displays.

software level:

In terms of choosing the resolution you want if it isn't available in macs preferences, you can check out SwitchResX. It's software that let's you directly set refresh rates and resolutions without using system preferences

sources:







Thanks for the detailed answer man !

Yeah I ask because some displays (TV) don’t have dp port ,only hdmi 2.1

Not feasible for now then
 
I connect this USB 4/40Gbits Dock and macOS Macbook M1 MAX does recognize them as a Thunderbolt/USB 4 Device:


Bildschirmfoto 2022-12-07 um 15.10.47.png



It has HDMI 2.1 8k60hz and 4k144hz VRR is also active.

Bildschirmfoto 2022-12-07 um 15.13.34.png


But unfortunately I can not set over 4k60hz thanks to the MacOS limitations. But hopefully on future update of Ventura. We all have to request this to apple on feedback assistant.
 
As an Amazon Associate, MacRumors earns a commission from qualifying purchases made through links in this post.
mac doesn't support hdmi 2.1 at the hardware level, the intel and m1 gpus just can't do it. it's not a bandwidth thing. that's why you need an adaptor. the catch is the adaptor has to be compatible with mac's gpu, or it won't work.

I know realtek has been working on a dp 1.4 to hdmi 2.1 adaptor chip, and it's out now but I don't know if it works for macs. you'd need to somehow do tb4 -> dp 1.4 -> hdmi 2.1 probably through the use of a tb4 dock.


hardware level:

the graphics cards of the intel and m1 macs don't support hdmi 2.1, so you need an adaptor that can convert the tb4 or display port signals into hdmi 2.1.

an example would be CableMatters' usb c to hdmi 2.1 adaptor

Unfortunately, not all adaptors are compatible with all graphics cards, so the above adaptor doesn't work for macs since the current macs don't have a 2000 series nvidia card

"For Apple users, recent-generation MacBooks using the same Intel CPUs, or the new Apple M1 processor developed with ARM, can support a maximum resolution and refresh rate of 4K at 60Hz without HDR when using the adapter."
"The USB-C to HDMI 2.1 adapter can connect any device from the Nvidia 2000-series (using its VirtualLink USB-C connector) to an 8kTV, or one that supports 4K at 120Hz, like the LG Signature ZX, or the Samsung Q90T."

So really, you have to wait for someone to release an adaptor capable of converting to hdmi 2.1 that works with mac's gpu.

but if you just want 120hz or 144hz, you can use tb4 or dp 1.4 and that will work fine. just not hdmi

if you just want 4k 120hz on your mac, check out this compatibilty list between various Macs and various 4k 120+ Hz displays.

software level:

In terms of choosing the resolution you want if it isn't available in macs preferences, you can check out SwitchResX. It's software that let's you directly set refresh rates and resolutions without using system preferences

sources:









I can not set a frequency on my M1 MAX, how did u change this on your M1 ?
Iam connected over USB 4 and HDMI 2.1 Dock which supports up to 8k@60hz.


Bildschirmfoto 2022-12-07 um 15.27.57.png
 
Last edited:
I plugged in a an active Club3D display port to HDMI adapter and then removed my 8k HDMI cable and plugged it into the HDMI 2.1 port on my GPU leaving the Club 3D still plugged in and VOILA! Sound through the TV via HDMI and 4k@120hz on a 2010 MacPro and RX6600XT!!!! FINALLY Try Motion Scrolling on my 48inch OLED and Mac OS!!!!
 

Attachments

  • IMG_0233.jpeg
    IMG_0233.jpeg
    282.1 KB · Views: 104
  • IMG_0234.jpeg
    IMG_0234.jpeg
    571.7 KB · Views: 81
  • IMG_0235.jpeg
    IMG_0235.jpeg
    182.2 KB · Views: 109
  • IMG_0236.jpeg
    IMG_0236.jpeg
    519.5 KB · Views: 92
  • IMG_0237.jpeg
    IMG_0237.jpeg
    448.4 KB · Views: 102
I plugged in a an active Club3D display port to HDMI adapter and then removed my 8k HDMI cable and plugged it into the HDMI 2.1 port on my GPU leaving the Club 3D still plugged in and VOILA! Sound through the TV via HDMI and 4k@120hz on a 2010 MacPro and RX6600XT!!!! FINALLY Try Motion Scrolling on my 48inch OLED and Mac OS!!!!
I don't understand. Is the Club3D adapter being used to connect the display or not? Are you saying that the Club3D is not used in the connection to the TV, but its presence being connected by itself to the DisplayPort of the GPU is affecting the behaviour of the display that is connected to the HDMI 2.1 of the GPU?

It appears to be using a HDMI 2.0 connection (4K120 1188MHz 4:2:0 8bpc TMDS). In that case, a 4K60 HDMI cable would be sufficient.
 
I have the 16” M2 Max and received this USB4 hub today with HDMI 2.1.


I have a 120Hz 4K display but when I connect it through the hub it only shows 4K 30Hz.

I had a power input, webcam and Ethernet connected at the same time.

Shame as I was wanting to go for a one cable solution when in clamshell mode.
 
As an Amazon Associate, MacRumors earns a commission from qualifying purchases made through links in this post.
  • Like
Reactions: Zorast
I have the 16” M2 Max and received this USB4 hub today with HDMI 2.1.


I have a 120Hz 4K display but when I connect it through the hub it only shows 4K 30Hz.

I had a power input, webcam and Ethernet connected at the same time.

Shame as I was wanting to go for a one cable solution when in clamshell mode.
USB-C hubs (not Thunderbolt) that support USB 3.x only have 2 lanes of DisplayPort. 2 lanes is not enough for 4K60 HDMI unless DSC is supported. Apple Silicon Macs should support DSC, but Apple...

2 lanes of HBR3 without DSC can do 4K30 HDMI 12bpc or 4K60 CVT-RB 8bpc.
2 lanes of HBR3 with DSC@12bpp can do 4K60 HDMI, 4K120 CVT-RB2, 8K30 CVT-RB. 8K60 is impossible unless you can do DSC and 4:2:0 at the same time to somehow get DSC@6bpp.

Correction: It says it's USB4 so it should allow a full bandwidth DisplayPort 1.4 HBR3 connection to its internal DisplayPort to HDMI 2.1 adapter.
 
Last edited:
As an Amazon Associate, MacRumors earns a commission from qualifying purchases made through links in this post.
USB-C hubs (not Thunderbolt) that support USB 3.x only have 2 lanes of DisplayPort. 2 lanes is not enough for 4K60 HDMI unless DSC is supported. Apple Silicon Macs should support DSC, but Apple...

2 lanes of HBR3 without DSC can do 4K30 HDMI 12bpc or 4K60 CVT-RB 8bpc.
2 lanes of HBR3 with DSC@12bpp can do 4K60 HDMI, 4K120 CVT-RB2, 8K30 CVT-RB. 8K60 is impossible unless you can do DSC and 4:2:0 at the same time to somehow get DSC@6bpp.
Makes sense thanks. I will plug directly into the laptop to get 4K120Hz and use the hub for everything else.
 
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.