Introduction
HDCP, or high-bandwidth digital copyright protection, is enabled by default on your PlayStation 5, and prevents external devices from recording video from your PS5. As a result, you have to disable HDCP on your PS5 before you can use game capture devices, such as an Elgato. The only caveat is that if you disable HDCP some apps on your console won’t work, such as Netflix, Disney Plus, Hulu and more, because you could record their content. Thankfully, turning off HDCP on your PS5 can be done quickly.
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Steps to Turn Off HDCP on PS5
- Click the “Settings” icon on your PS5 home screen, and then click “System” in the menu that’s displayed. The System screen is shown.
- Choose “HDMI” in the menu on the left side of the screen. Options associated with HDMI are displayed on the right side of the screen.
- Click to toggle off “Enable HDCP.” You can now use connected game capture devices to record video from your PS5.
What is HDCP?
High-bandwidth digital copyright protection, or HDCP, is a technology used to prevent unauthorized copying of digital content. HDCP works by encrypting the digital content as it is transmitted from a source device to a display device. This prevents unauthorized copying of the content during transmission. HDCP is widely used in the entertainment industry to protect movies, TV shows, and other types of digital content.
HDCP is a transparent technology that does not affect the quality of digital content. It is designed to ensure that only authorized devices can receive and display encrypted content. HDCP encryption keys are unique to each device and are kept secret. When a source device and a display device are connected, they perform a handshake to establish a secure connection and to ensure that they are both HDCP-compliant. If the handshake is successful, the source device can transmit encrypted content to the display device, which can then decrypt and display it. If the handshake is not successful, the content will not be transmitted.
HDCP compliance is a requirement for playing high-definition content. Most modern display devices, such as TVs and computer monitors, are HDCP-compliant. HDCP can be implemented in both hardware and software. HDCP is an effective way to prevent piracy and protect the interests of content creators. As digital content becomes more prevalent, HDCP will likely continue to play a key role in protecting copyrighted content.
Three Reasons to Consider Turning Off HDCP on Your PS5
1. Recording Gameplay
If you’re a content creator, streamer, or simply a gamer who enjoys recording their gameplay, HDCP can be a frustrating feature on the PS5. HDCP can prevent the recording of gameplay footage using external capture devices, which can be a major obstacle for anyone looking to produce high-quality content. Turning off HDCP on the PlayStation 5 can allow you to record your gameplay using capture devices such as Elgato or AVerMedia. This can be particularly important if you’re looking to create content for platforms like YouTube, Twitch, or Facebook Gaming.
2. Display Compatibility
While most modern displays are HDCP-compliant, some older displays may not be. This can be a major issue for anyone who wants to use their PS5 with an older TV or monitor. If you’re experiencing a black screen or an error message when trying to display content on an HDCP-incompatible display, turning off HDCP on your PS5 may be a solution. This can allow you to use your PlayStation 5 with older displays that are not HDCP-compliant. However, it’s important to note that turning off HDCP may prevent the playback of copyrighted content, such as Blu-ray discs or digital movies.
3. Connection Issues
Sometimes, HDCP can cause connection issues when connecting the PlayStation 5 to a display device. This can be a frustrating issue that can prevent you from enjoying your games on your preferred display device. If you’re experiencing connection issues, such as compatibility issues with certain HDMI cables or handshake errors, turning off HDCP on your PS5 may be a solution. This can help you to resolve these issues and enjoy your games without any connectivity problems. However, it’s important to keep in mind that turning off HDCP may come with certain risks, such as the inability to play copyrighted content.
