The Plugable HDMI Switch with USB-C (HDMI-SC3) allows you to connect and switch between up to three source devices (computers, gaming consoles, or set top media players) to a single HDMI display. Whether in the conference room, at home, or in the dorm, expand the connectivity of your display to support multiple inputs at the push of a button without swapping cables around. This HDMI Switch makes it easy to connect new systems with USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode output to your HDMI display.
The HDMI switch cycles between the three inputs with a single button and an LED indicates the active input. Power for the switch is provided by the source device (we include an optional USB Micro-B power cable in case your source devices don’t provide enough power).
Plugable’s HDMI switch supports up to HDMI 2.0 and USB-C sources and can output at HDMI 2.0 resolution up to UHD 4K SDR (3840×2160 @ 60Hz Standard Dynamic Range). HDMI 2.0 functionality requires compatible HDMI cables, USB-C cable, and source devices USB-C and HDMI cables are not included. See additional USB-C and HDMI compatibility details below.
Compatibility
Two HDMI inputs support plug and play functionality with Windows, macOS, Linux, game consoles, and most media players.
Single USB-C input requires a computer, tablet, or phone which can output video over the USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 port (known as “DisplayPort Alternate Mode” or “Alt Mode” output). Alt Mode video output over USB-C must be built-in by your laptop, tablet, or phone manufacturer.
Resolution and refresh rate are dependent on source device, output display, and cable specifications. HDMI switch does not upscale content; the output will be limited to the capability of the source device, up to HDMI 2.0 capability.
Audio switching is supported on HDMI capable TVs and monitors with built-in speakers.
Incompatible Devices
Many computers and phones with USB-C ports do not support video output from this port. Some system manufacturers document this functionality while others do not. Plugable can help with USB-C compatibility questions prior to purchase.
USB-C charging cables provided with most Apple computers and tablets do not support video transfer and are not compatible.
ASMedia USB 3.1 controllers do not support USB-C video output.
Samsung USB-C Phones only support mirrored display output over USB-C.
HDMI ARC is not supported. DTS/DD bitstreaming is not supported.
May not be compatible with some HDMI receivers.
High Dynamic Range (HDR) is not supported with this switch. HDR requires HDMI 2.0b specification, connected 4K HDR displays may have reduced refresh rate, limited HDR capabilities, or graphics compression.
HDMI 2.0, 4K TVs, and HDMI Cables
When utilizing HDMI 2.0’s highest resolution and refresh rate (3840×2160 @ 60Hz), twice the data is being transmitted as the maximum allowed by the previous HDMI 1.4 specification.
As a result, it is critical that an HDMI 2.0-compliant cable capable of providing the increased bandwidth be used for 4K 60Hz functionality. HDMI 1.x cables will likely result in a blank screen, digital noise/artifacts, or display drop-offs.
If using an HDMI 2.0 4K TV, it is strongly recommended to update the firmware/software of the TV for the best compatibility, performance, and stability.
4K UHD Televisions with HDR may be limited to 30Hz refresh rate.
USB-C System Compatibility
- Compatible with Thunderbolt 3 MacBook Pro systems (Late 2016 and newer), MacBook Air 2018 with Thunderbolt 3, and USB-C 12″ Retina MacBooks (2015/2016/2017)
- Compatible with Dell XPS systems with Thunderbolt 3 and many with USB-C
- Compatible with most HP systems with Thunderbolt 3 and many with USB-C
- Compatible with many other USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 systems from a variety of manufacturers
- If you’re unsure if your USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 port supports video output, please post your system model to the Questions section of the listing and we’ll be happy to help!
Technical Specifications
- HDMI 2.0 supports up to 4K 60Hz refresh rate Standard Dynamic Range, 4K High Dynamic Range (HDR) not supported and may be limited to 30Hz refresh rate
- USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode supports DisplayPort 1.2 functionality
- Audio pass through: LPCM/HBR audio up to 8-channels and 192kHz sample rate (audio capability may be limited by source device or display/receiver capability)
In the Box
- Plugable HDMI Switch with USB-C
- USB-A to USB Micro-B power cable
- Quick Start Guide
