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The issue is not the CPU, it's the HDMI link. HDMI 1.4a and anything below can only transport 4K at up to 30hz before it simply runs out of available signal bandwidth. You need an HDMI 2.0 capable device to drive 60hz.
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Is there anything out there that is capable of running 4k. Something small like a nuc or chromebox
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No one has any experience or knowledge with 4k?
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2014-12-12, 03:36
(This post was last modified: 2014-12-12, 03:39 by Ned Scott.)
As far as I know, there are only huge gaming monster GPUs with HDMI 2.0. Or, at least, they seem to be the only ones advertising HDMI 2.0. They're not outrageous, but they're not exactly the kind of thing you'll see in "miniPC" form factor. If you're okay with having a "normal" sized PC tower near your TV, and don't mind the fans noise, then I would just treat this like a gaming PC build that happens to be plugged into a TV. Take a look at newegg or whatever PC part supplier you like and browse what they have available for HDMI 2.0. As more months go on, more options will undoubtedly show up, but for now you're looking at full-sized parts.
EDIT: and keep in mind, most TV shows and movies won't be in 60hz, so going the HDMI 2.0 route is mainly for sports, home movies, and gaming, as far as the living room entertainment goes.
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Even if you could build a system with these first generation 4k components why would you want to spend the time and money at this stage when there is almost NO content for it?
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Agree with the lack of 4k content.
Ned Scott.... you mention most movies and shows won't be at 60hz.
I have never really watched 4k, other than what's in best buy. Is 30 hz or 24hz noticeable over 60hz. I guess that's my only worry.
As far as building a pc next to my tv, I don't want to go that route. I have my custom built pc in the other room for gaming. Just want something small and more than efficient at running just xbmc. That would be its sole purpose. Just want something that can handle 3d and 4k. I did read an article that says some devices allow you to use both hdmi and mini display port simultaneously on the same screen. Each at 30hz to give you 60hz combined. Not sure on how true that is or of I misread that.
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I think 24hz and 30hz look fine. Peter Jackson likes 48hz. There's some debate about it:
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2403746,00.asp
However, outside of the Hobbit, I'm not sure if anyone else really bothered with the extra expense to produce a film in a framerate higher than 30 FPS. It was kind of a thing for a while, and then I don't remember hearing much about it after that.
