A video capture card is a hardware device that performs two key tasks: forwarding the video stream to the PC for processing and simultaneously providing pass-through support, allowing the video stream to be displayed on a monitor. The main formats produced by manufacturers include external devices with plug-ins (such as USB, USB-C, Thunderbolt, FireWire, etc.) or internal devices using the PCIe slot on the motherboard.
How does a capture card work?
Most external devices (such as cameras, consoles, etc.) send raw video streams that need to be converted to the laptop or PC to be properly processed. Capture cards receive these video streams and then forward them to the PC for further processing. After processing, the PC will encode the data and the user can save it as a file or upload it to the Internet in real time. At the same time, the pass-through function allows the user to view the stream in real time while the PC processes the recording.
What are the functions and uses of capture cards
Capture cards capture video signals from external devices through HDMI or other connections. They can capture games on game consoles (such as Xbox, Play-Station, etc.) or other gaming computers and act as input data receivers. The device's GPU transfers data to the card, where the user can then capture, record, encode, and upload it, or even upload it as a live stream to anywhere they see fit. Video game streaming is the largest market for capture card manufacturers.
Do I need a capture card?
While game consoles now have internal streaming and recording capabilities, and it is possible to record, stream, and play games simultaneously using a PC alone, if you want to record and stream at a higher quality, then you need to buy a capture card. Compared to screen recorders, capture cards have the advantages of not using computer resources for high-quality streaming or recording, streaming without lag and at very high quality, and easy management and creation of a library of video clips.
Capture Card Types and Selection
The five most common types of capture cards include PC, Mac, 3DS, Wii, and Play-Station capture cards. Each type of capture card has its specific uses and benefits. When choosing a capture card, you need to consider whether to use an external or internal card. Internal PCIe cards offer better performance, but external cards offer greater mobility. In addition, you need to consider the resolution and processing power of the card to ensure it meets your streaming and recording needs.
How do I install a capture card?
Before installing the capture card, make sure you have the correct cables needed to connect your device. For a USB external capture card, you need to connect it to the USB port of your computer and use an HDMI cable to connect the capture card to the device and monitor. For an internal PCIe capture card, you need to plug it into the PCIe slot on the motherboard and use an HDMI cable to connect the capture card to the device and monitor.
Software Installation and Configuration
After installing the capture card hardware, you need to download and install the software and drivers that come with the device. Most capture cards come with proprietary software, but users can also choose third-party programs to enhance their streaming and recording capabilities. For example, OBS Studio is a popular open source streaming and recording software that is compatible with most capture cards.
In short, video capture cards are essential for professional streaming and high-quality recording. By understanding the features, uses, and selection guides of capture cards, you can better choose and use capture cards to meet your streaming and recording needs.
