DNT Grabstar PRO Video Digitizer and Game Capture User Manual

1. Introduction

The DNT Grabstar PRO is a versatile video digitizer and game capture device designed to convert your analog and digital video treasures into modern digital formats. It allows you to record directly onto external storage media without the need for a PC or network connection. Compatible with a wide range of sources including VHS recorders, camcorders, gaming consoles, and TV receivers, the Grabstar PRO supports resolutions up to 1080p. It also features HDMI pass-through and live streaming capabilities for gaming content.

Important Note: Always ensure you are using the latest firmware version for optimal performance. You can check your current firmware version in the Grabstar PRO's Device menu. The firmware valid as of February 22, 2021, is v210222-dnt.

2. Package Contents

Please check that all items are present in the package:

• 1 x Grabstar PRO Video Digitizer
• 1 x Infrared Remote Control
• 1 x Power Adapter
• 1 x USB Charging Cable
• 1 x 3.5mm Jack to 3x RCA AV Adapter Cable
• 1 x HDMI Cable
• 1 x Quick Start Guide

Image: All components included in the DNT Grabstar PRO package. This includes the main digitizer unit, an infrared remote control, a power adapter, a USB charging cable, a 3.5mm jack to 3x RCA AV adapter cable, an HDMI cable, and a quick start guide.

3. Product Overview

The Grabstar PRO features a compact design with various ports and controls for easy operation.

3.1 Device Layout

Image: Angled view of the DNT Grabstar PRO, highlighting its 3.5-inch color display and front-facing control buttons (OK, Menu, Back, Mode, Rec/Stop, Volume).

3.2 Ports and Connections

The device is equipped with multiple input and output ports to connect various video sources and storage devices.

• AV IN: 3.5mm jack for analog video input (via included 3x RCA adapter).
• HDMI IN: For digital video input from sources like gaming consoles.
• HDMI OUT: For connecting to a TV or monitor for pass-through or playback.
• USB: For connecting USB storage devices (USB sticks, external hard drives).
• USB-to-PC: Micro USB port for connecting to a computer.
• SD/SDHC Slot: For inserting SD/SDHC memory cards.
• Power: For connecting the power adapter.
• Audio (Microphone): 3.5mm jack for external microphone input.
• Headphone: 3.5mm jack for audio monitoring.

Image: A comprehensive diagram illustrating the various ports on the Grabstar PRO, including SD card slot, power, audio, AV IN, HDMI IN, HDMI OUT, USB, and USB-to-PC, along with examples of devices that can be connected to each port (Camcorder, VHS, DVD, Gaming Console, PC/Laptop, TV-Receiver).

Image: Rear view of the DNT Grabstar PRO, clearly showing the AV IN, HDMI IN, HDMI OUT, USB, and USB-to-PC ports.

Image: Side view of the DNT Grabstar PRO, highlighting the SD/SDHC memory card slot.

4. Setup

Follow these steps to set up your Grabstar PRO for recording.

4.1 Power Connection

1. Connect the supplied USB charging cable to the Grabstar PRO's Power port.
2. Plug the other end of the USB cable into the provided power adapter.
3. Connect the power adapter to a wall outlet. The device can also operate on its integrated battery for up to 2.5 hours.

4.2 Connecting a Video Source

Choose the appropriate connection method based on your source device:

• For Analog Sources (VHS, Camcorder, DVD Player with RCA output): Use the included 3.5mm jack to 3x RCA AV adapter cable. Connect the yellow RCA plug to the video output of your source device, and the red and white RCA plugs to the audio outputs. Then, connect the 3.5mm jack to the Grabstar PRO's AV IN port.
• For Digital Sources (Gaming Consoles, Digital Cameras): Use an HDMI cable. Connect one end to the HDMI output of your source device and the other end to the Grabstar PRO's HDMI IN port.

Image: The DNT Grabstar PRO positioned on top of a VHS player, demonstrating an analog connection using RCA cables for video and audio input.

4.3 Connecting Storage Media

The Grabstar PRO supports various external storage options:

• SD/SDHC Memory Card: Insert a Class 10 or higher SD/SDHC card (up to 128 GB) into the SD/SDHC slot.
• USB Stick: Plug a USB stick (up to 128 GB) into the USB port.
• External USB Hard Drive: Connect an external USB hard drive (up to 4 TB) to the USB port. For active external hard drives, ensure they have their own power supply.

Supported file systems for storage media include FAT32, NTFS, and exFAT. Note that FAT32 has a maximum file size limit of 4 GB per file.

4.4 Connecting to a TV/Monitor (Optional)

To view the input source or recorded content on a larger screen:

• Connect an HDMI cable from the Grabstar PRO's HDMI OUT port to an HDMI input on your TV or monitor.

5. Operating Instructions

This section details how to use your Grabstar PRO for recording and playback.

5.1 Powering On/Off

• Press and hold the Power button on the device or remote control to turn the unit on or off.

5.2 Recording Video

1. Ensure your video source and storage media are correctly connected.
2. Turn on the Grabstar PRO and your video source device.
3. Select the correct input source (AV IN or HDMI IN) using the Mode button on the device or remote.
4. Start playback on your source device (e.g., press Play on your VCR). The video should appear on the Grabstar PRO's screen.
5. Press the Rec/Stop button on the device or remote control to start recording. A recording indicator will appear on the screen.
6. To stop recording, press the Rec/Stop button again. The device will save the recorded file to your chosen storage medium.

Recording Resolutions:

• HDMI: 1920 x 1080p, 1280 x 720p, 720 x 480p.
• Analog: 720 x 576p, 720 x 480p, 640 x 480p.

Important for Analog Sources: Higher recording resolutions for analog material do not improve quality, as the native resolution of analog sources is low. Selecting higher resolutions for analog input may result in lower digitization quality.

5.3 Gaming Console Recording

The Grabstar PRO can record gameplay from consoles like Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo. For successful recording, HDCP protection must be deactivated in the gaming console's settings.

5.4 Live Streaming Function

The device supports live streaming of gameplay or other video content directly to video portals like YouTube, using free software such as OBS or XSplit on a connected PC.

5.5 Microphone Input

Connect an external microphone to the 3.5mm Audio jack to record live commentary during your video capture sessions.

5.6 Playback

You can play back your digitized recordings directly on the Grabstar PRO's 3.5-inch color screen or on a connected TV/monitor via HDMI.

• Navigate through your recorded files using the control buttons (Up/Down, OK, Menu, Back).
• Press OK to start playback of a selected file.

6. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Grabstar PRO, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the manufacturer's website for new firmware updates. Updates can be installed via USB or SD/SDHC memory card. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the update process.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Grabstar PRO, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• "No Signal" displayed on screen:
  • Ensure all cables (AV or HDMI) are securely connected to both the source device and the Grabstar PRO.
  • Verify that the source device is powered on and playing content. The Grabstar PRO will only display a signal if one is actively being sent from the source.
  • Check that the correct input source (AV IN or HDMI IN) is selected on the Grabstar PRO using the Mode button.
  • For gaming consoles, ensure HDCP protection is disabled in the console's settings.
• Recording not starting or stopping correctly:
  • Ensure a valid video signal is present on the screen before pressing Rec/Stop.
  • After pressing Rec/Stop to end a recording, allow the device a moment to process and save the file before powering off or removing storage.
  • For very long videos, consider segmenting them into shorter recordings to prevent potential issues during saving.
• Storage media (SD card, USB drive) not recognized or recording fails:
  • Ensure the storage device is properly inserted or connected.
  • Check the storage device's format. The Grabstar PRO supports FAT32, NTFS, and exFAT. If your device is formatted differently, reformat it to one of these supported types.
  • If using FAT32, remember the 4 GB file size limit. For recordings that might exceed this, use NTFS or exFAT formatted storage.
  • For external USB hard drives, ensure they have their own power supply if they are active drives.
  • Try a different SD card or USB stick, as some older or faulty media may cause issues.
• Poor image quality during recording:
  • This is often due to the quality of the source material (e.g., old, degraded VHS tapes) or the playback device (e.g., dirty VCR heads).
  • Ensure all cables are in good condition and securely connected.
  • For analog sources, higher recording resolutions on the Grabstar PRO will not improve the inherent low resolution of the original material and may even degrade the result. Stick to native analog resolutions (720x576p or 720x480p) for best results.
• No audio recorded:
  • For analog (AV IN) connections, ensure both the red and white RCA audio cables are correctly connected from your source device to the AV adapter cable.
  • Check the audio output settings on your source device.
  • Ensure the volume on the Grabstar PRO is not muted or set too low.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official DNT website. Firmware updates and additional resources may be available online.