Record PS3 and PS4 via HDMI - bypass HDCP lock
To be able to record videos, e.g. so-called Let's Play videos, from the PS3 or PS4, you have to bypass the HDCP lock of the HDMI signal. The lock is supposed to prevent copyrighted audio and video material from being recorded. With Let's Play videos, game manufacturers are generous and tolerate free advertising for them. We'll show you how to get around the lock.
Record via HDMI: bypass HDCP lock on PS4
Since a software update, the PS4 has been offering a software solution to bypass the HDCP lock. All you have to do is deactivate the corresponding option in the menu.
- Open the settings on your PS4.
- Select the menu item "System".
- Under "Activate HDCP" you can remove the tick so that the signal of the PS4 is no longer protected. You can now record video from your PS4. However, all applications with protected material such as video portals are blocked as long as HDCP protection is removed.
Record via HDMI: bypass HDCP lock on PS3
Unfortunately, the PS3 does not offer a software update to deactivate the HDCP lock. To avoid this, you need an "HDMI Splitter".
- An HDMI splitter or switch is a device that receives an HDMI signal, splits it, amplifies it, and then passes it on to two or more devices.
- Splitting and amplifying the HDMI signal means that HDCP protection is lost. The HDCP lock is therefore simply removed.
- Since changing the HDCP lock is only an unwanted side effect, not every HDMI splitter has to fulfill this function.
- We found in the test that the HDCP lock is removed when using the Liqoo HDMI splitter. The device costs about 13 euros.
- In some cases, changes in the signal can result in image interference or a deterioration in the image quality.
In another practical tip, we will show you how you can deactivate the automatic account extension of your PS Plus membership.