A/V Out Capture

[bnshrdr]

What I am trying to accomplish is to capture gameplay from console(s)/TV.

To get an extra media feed, here are my options:
1) Split the AV in line to the TV
2) Use my component out ports on my TV (more what I want)

Unfortunately, the only computer with decent spec's at my disposal is my laptop. The only ports I really have that would be useful are USB/Firewire.

Is there a way I can connect them all and capture the input via software? A foreseeable problem I can predict may be bottle necking of data transfer (some of it will be HD).

Or would I be better off getting a capture card that can take the input?

On an off note, if this is on the wrong forum, by all means feel free to move it.

[Guest]

One option: Hauppauge HD-PVR.

[bnshrdr]

That's what I was afraid of, but I have reviewed that product and it really excites me. In the long run, its cheaper than TiVo, or if you want to look at it another way, it pays itself off in a year.

Just a question though. Is there no way to adapt AV cables to usb and have some software that knows how to read it? Essentially that's what the HD-PVR is doing, but is there really a need for a middle man?

[Guest]

Just a question though. Is there no way to adapt AV cables to usb and have some software that knows how to read it? Essentially that's what the HD-PVR is doing, but is there really a need for a middle man? That's pretty funny. Obviously you haven't a clue what the HD-PVR is doing.

[von_Runkel]

You need this "middle man". There is no way to connect component video to USB or Firewire directly.

Remember that USB and Firewire are digital input and output ports and your source is analogue. You can look at it this way: the "middle man" is a clever A/D converter.

BTW, What kind of TV do you have that can output component video? Just curious since I've never heard of this feature.

[bnshrdr]

I think I said it wrong. Underneath the output lines it has component in. Above it are 3 slots; yellow, red, white. I thinks it's just typical A/V out. Sorry for the terminology.

Thanks for the explanation though, it makes sense to me now.