1. Introduction
Welcome to the user manual for the Ezcap ezcap324 Live Gamer RAW PCIe HDMI Video Capture Card. This document provides detailed instructions for the installation, setup, operation, and maintenance of your new capture card. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the device to ensure proper functionality and to maximize your experience.
2. Product Overview
The Ezcap ezcap324 Live Gamer RAW is a high-performance PCIe video capture card designed for capturing and streaming video content from various sources. It supports resolutions up to 4K at 30fps passthrough and recording, 1440p at 60fps, and 1080p at 120fps, making it suitable for gaming, live streaming, and content creation.
Figure 2.1: Ezcap ezcap324 Live Gamer RAW PCIe HDMI Video Capture Card, angled view. This image displays the Ezcap ezcap324 Live Gamer RAW PCIe HDMI Video Capture Card from an angled perspective, highlighting its compact design and the 'ezcap' and 'LIVE GAMER RAW' branding on the heatsink.
2.1. Device Ports
Figure 2.2: Side view of the Ezcap ezcap324 Live Gamer RAW showing HDMI and audio ports. This image provides a clear side view of the Ezcap ezcap324 Live Gamer RAW, detailing the HDMI Out, HDMI In, Line Out (3.5mm TRS), and Line In (3.5mm TRS) ports.
- HDMI IN: Connects to your video source (e.g., game console, camera).
- HDMI OUT: Connects to your display device (e.g., TV, monitor) for passthrough.
- LINE IN (3.5mm TRS): Connects to an audio mixer or microphone for external audio input.
- LINE OUT (3.5mm TRS): Connects to headphones or speakers for audio monitoring.
- PCIe Gen2 X1 Connector: For installation into a compatible PCIe slot on your computer motherboard.
3. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Interface | PCIe Gen2 X1 |
| Video Input | HDMI 1.4 |
| Audio Input | HDMI, Line In (3.5mm TRS) |
| Video Output | HDMI 1.4 |
| Audio Output | HDMI, Line Out (3.5mm TRS) |
| Max Passthrough Resolution | 2160p30, 1440p60, 1080p120 |
| Max Recording Resolution | 1080p120, 2160p30, 1440p60 |
| Supported Resolutions | 2160p, 1440p, 1080p, 720p |
| Output Video Format | YUY2, NV12, RGB |
| Recording Resolution & Max FPS | 3840x2160 - NV12/30 2560x1440 - NV12/60, YUY/50 1920x1080 - NV12/120, YUY/60, XRGB/30 1280x720 - NV12/60, YUY/60, XRGB/60 |
| Dimensions | 126 x 121 x 22mm |
4. System Requirements
4.1. Windows 10 x64
- PCI-E X1 Slot: Required for card installation.
- For 4Kp30 or 1080p120 Recording:
- CPU: Intel Core i5-6XXX / AMD Ryzen 3 XXX or above
- GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1060 / AMD RX 5700 or above
- RAM: 8GB or more
- For 1080p60 Recording:
- CPU: Intel Core i7-3770 recommended
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 650 / AMD Radeon R7 250X or above
- RAM: 4GB or more
4.2. Mac OS
- Mac Pro: Compatible.
- Operating System: Mac OS High Sierra 10.15 or later.
- PCI-E X1 Slot: Required for card installation.
5. Setup Guide
5.1. Hardware Installation
Follow these steps to install the Ezcap ezcap324 Live Gamer RAW into your computer:
- Power Off: Ensure your computer is completely powered off and unplugged from the power source.
- Open Case: Open your computer case to access the motherboard.
- Locate PCIe Slot: Find an available PCIe X1 slot on your motherboard.
- Insert Card: Carefully align the capture card with the PCIe slot and press down firmly until it is securely seated.
- Secure Card: Use a screw to secure the card's bracket to the computer case.
- Close Case: Close your computer case and reconnect the power cable.
Figure 5.1: Ezcap ezcap324 Live Gamer RAW installed in a desktop computer's PCIe slot. The image shows the capture card securely fitted into a PCIe slot on a motherboard within a computer case.
5.2. Connecting Devices
After installing the hardware, connect your input and output devices:
- Connect Video Source: Use an HDMI cable to connect your video source (e.g., game console, camcorder) to the HDMI IN port on the capture card.
- Connect Display: Use another HDMI cable to connect your monitor or TV to the HDMI OUT port on the capture card for video passthrough.
- Connect Audio Input (Optional): If using an external microphone or audio mixer, connect it to the LINE IN (3.5mm TRS) port.
- Connect Audio Output (Optional): For audio monitoring, connect headphones or speakers to the LINE OUT (3.5mm TRS) port.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1. Software Installation and Setup
The Ezcap ezcap324 Live Gamer RAW is a plug-and-play device for most modern operating systems. It functions as a standard UVC (USB Video Class) and UAC (USB Audio Class) device, meaning it generally does not require specific drivers. However, you will need third-party capture/streaming software to utilize its full capabilities.
- Recommended Software: Popular options include OBS Studio, XSplit, or similar video capture applications.
- Software Configuration:
- Launch your preferred capture software.
- Add a new 'Video Capture Device' source.
- Select 'ezcap324 Live Gamer RAW' from the list of available devices.
- Configure video resolution, frame rate, and audio input settings within the software to match your desired output.
- Ensure the audio input is set to the capture card for game audio, and your external microphone (if connected to LINE IN) is selected as a separate audio source if needed.
6.2. Capturing and Streaming
Once configured in your software, you can begin capturing or streaming:
- Preview: Verify that the video and audio from your source are appearing correctly in the software's preview window.
- Start Recording/Streaming: Use the software's controls to start recording your gameplay or begin a live stream to your chosen platform.
- Monitor Performance: Keep an eye on your system's CPU/GPU usage and network stability (for streaming) to ensure smooth operation.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
- No Signal/Black Screen:
- Check all HDMI cable connections.
- Ensure the video source is powered on and outputting a signal.
- Verify that the resolution and refresh rate of your source are supported by the capture card (refer to Specifications).
- Try a different HDMI cable.
- No Audio:
- Check audio settings in your capture software to ensure the correct audio input (ezcap324) is selected and not muted.
- Verify that the audio source is enabled and not muted on your input device.
- If using LINE IN/OUT, ensure cables are correctly connected and devices are powered.
- Poor Performance (Lag, Stuttering):
- Ensure your computer meets or exceeds the minimum system requirements.
- Close unnecessary background applications.
- Update your graphics card drivers.
- Lower the capture resolution or frame rate in your software settings.
- Card Not Detected:
- Ensure the card is properly seated in the PCIe slot.
- Try installing the card in a different PCIe slot if available.
- Restart your computer.
8. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Ezcap ezcap324 Live Gamer RAW, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the card and its ports with a soft, dry cloth. Use compressed air to remove dust from the heatsink and ventilation holes. Do not use liquid cleaners.
- Environment: Operate the card in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity.
- Handling: Handle the card by its edges to avoid touching the components or the PCIe connector.
9. Warranty and Support
For information regarding warranty coverage, technical support, or service, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact your retailer. Specific warranty terms may vary by region and seller.
