Frequently Asked Questions About DVB-C Video Capture Cards and TV Tuners
Capture cards help you to record whatever is showing on your computer or TV screen so that you can share it with friends and family. TV tuners let you watch TV on your computer. When selecting a capture card or tuner, there are a variety of broadcasting formats to consider, including DVB-C.
What is a TV tuner?
TV tuners are a type of capture card. You can attach a TV tuner to your computer via USB so that you can receive over-the-air signals with an antenna. This essentially turns your computer into a television. Some tuners have an HDMI slot on them so that you can attach a DVD or Blu-ray player to watch movies. Some models have software that can let you schedule recording times.
What is DVB-C?
DVB-C is a broadcasting format used in Europe, Asia, and South America for transmitting digital TV. For video and audio streaming, it supports both MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 formats. The cable signal for DVB-C can be carried by either a fiber cable or a coaxial cord. Some USB TV tuners have this coaxial connector so that the cable can be connected directly to the TV.
What is a capture card?
A capture card converts an analog video signal to a digital signal. Some capture cards are inserted into the motherboard, but USB options are also available. One end of the capture card has the USB connection, and the other end has a coaxial, HDMI, or another type of video connector.
What are some of the video capture cards available?
- PC: This type allows you to capture video from one computer to transmit to another. PC capture cards allow you to use one computer for streaming and another computer for gaming.
- Sony PlayStation: This type of capture card attaches to the back of a PlayStation video system. These capture cards allow you to stream, capture, and edit gameplay video.
- Microsoft Xbox: These capture cards will connect to the HDMI slot of your game system and help to record, stream, and edit footage from games.
- Nintendo: This type has three connectors: a USB connection for your computer, a connection for the 3DS, and a connector for the video source.
How do you choose a video capture card?
The first thing that you should do when selecting a capture card is decide what type of video you want to capture with the device. USB-2.0-connection-type capture cards are available in a variety of branded and unbranded options. When looking at the different brands, you can look through the various features, such as editing tools, TV tuners, and connection types. Some even have accessories, like remote controls, for added functionality.