What is a capture card?

A capture card is a hardware device that allows you to record video and audio signals from external sources, such as game consoles, cameras, or set-top boxes, onto your computer. It essentially converts the video signal into a digital format that your computer can understand and store.

Here are some important aspects of capture cards:

• Functionality: At its core, a capture card acts as a bridge between a video source and your computer. It receives the video signal, encodes it, and sends the encoded data to your computer for recording or streaming. This process involves specialized hardware and software for efficient and high-quality capture. Learn more about its <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/functionality">functionality</a>.

• Types: Capture cards come in two main types:

  • Internal capture cards: These cards are installed directly into your computer's <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/PCIe%20slot">PCIe slot</a>, providing a direct connection to your system's resources. They often offer higher performance and lower latency.
  • External capture cards: These cards connect to your computer via <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/USB%20port">USB port</a> (typically USB 3.0 or higher). They are more portable and easier to set up, making them suitable for laptops or situations where internal installation is not possible.

• Inputs and Outputs: Capture cards feature various inputs and outputs to accommodate different video sources. Common inputs include <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/HDMI">HDMI</a>, Component, Composite, and S-Video. Outputs typically include HDMI (for pass-through, allowing you to view the video on a separate monitor while capturing) and USB (for connecting to the computer).

• Resolution and Frame Rate: The maximum <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/resolution">resolution</a> and <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/frame%20rate">frame rate</a> that a capture card can handle are crucial factors to consider. Common resolutions include 1080p (Full HD), 1440p (Quad HD), and 4K (Ultra HD), while frame rates range from 30fps to 60fps or even higher.

• Software: Capture cards usually come with dedicated software for recording and streaming. This software allows you to configure settings such as resolution, frame rate, video and audio codecs, and input sources. Some cards are also compatible with popular streaming software like OBS Studio and XSplit.

• Latency: <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Latency">Latency</a> refers to the delay between the video source and the captured video displayed on your computer. Low latency is essential for gaming and other real-time applications. Internal capture cards generally have lower latency than external cards.

• Use Cases: Capture cards are widely used for:

  • Gaming: Recording and streaming gameplay footage.
  • Content Creation: Capturing video from cameras, camcorders, and other video sources.
  • Live Streaming: Broadcasting live video feeds to platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook.
  • Video Archiving: Converting analog video tapes (VHS, etc.) to digital formats.