1. Introduction
The MICROWARE EZCAP288 is a standalone HDMI and AV video capture card designed for converting analog and digital video and audio to digital files. This device allows you to record 1080P video from various sources directly to a USB storage device without the need for a personal computer. It supports both HDMI and Composite video (CVBS) inputs, making it compatible with a wide range of devices such as gaming consoles, set-top boxes, VCRs, camcorders, and DVD players.
Key features include one-click recording, microphone input for commentary, and HDMI loop-out for simultaneous viewing.
Image 1.1: The EZCAP288 HDMI AV Video Capture Card, showing its compact design and various ports.
2. Safety Information
- Keep the device away from water, moisture, and extreme temperatures.
- Do not attempt to open or modify the device. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Use only the provided power adapter or one with compatible specifications.
- Ensure proper ventilation around the device during operation.
- Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts.
3. Package Contents
Please check the package for the following items:
- MICROWARE EZCAP288 Video Capture Card
- AV Adapter
- TF Card Reader (Accessory)
- Power Adapter (not explicitly listed but implied for operation)
4. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the ports and buttons on your EZCAP288 device:
Image 4.1: Diagram illustrating the front and rear ports of the EZCAP288 capture card.
Front Panel:
- USB HOST: Connect a USB flash drive or external hard drive for recording.
- LINE IN: Audio input for external audio sources.
- MIC IN: 3.5mm input for a microphone (TRS standard only) for commentary.
- LINE OUT: 3.5mm audio output for headphones or speakers.
- REC Button: Press to start/stop recording.
- Status Indicator: LED light indicating device status (e.g., recording in progress).
Rear Panel:
- HDMI OUT: Connect to a TV or monitor for video pass-through.
- HDMI IN: Connect to an HDMI video source.
- AV IN: Connect to an analog video source (Composite video/CVBS) using the AV adapter.
- DC IN: Connect the power adapter.
5. Setup Guide
Follow these steps to set up your EZCAP288 video capture card:
- Connect Video Source:
- For HDMI sources (e.g., gaming console, set-top box): Connect an HDMI cable from your source's HDMI OUT to the EZCAP288's HDMI IN port.
- For Analog sources (e.g., VCR, camcorder): Connect the AV adapter to the EZCAP288's AV IN port, then connect your analog source's RCA cables (Yellow for video, Red/White for audio) to the AV adapter.
- Connect Display (Optional but Recommended): Connect an HDMI cable from the EZCAP288's HDMI OUT port to your TV or monitor's HDMI IN port. This allows you to view the video source while recording.
- Insert USB Storage: Insert a USB flash drive (formatted to FAT32) or an external hard drive (MBR partition, up to 2TB) into the USB HOST port. The device supports USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 drives.
- Connect Power: Connect the power adapter to the EZCAP288's DC IN port and plug it into a power outlet.
Image 5.1: A detailed diagram showing various connection scenarios for the EZCAP288, including HDMI and AV sources, USB storage, and microphone input.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1. Basic Recording
- Ensure all connections are secure as described in the Setup Guide.
- Power on the EZCAP288.
- Wait approximately 10 seconds for the capture card to recognize the inserted USB drive.
- Press the REC button once to start recording. The status indicator light will turn red, indicating recording is in progress.
- To stop recording, press the REC button again. The device will save the video file to your USB drive.
Image 6.1: The EZCAP288 with a USB drive inserted, showing the red indicator light for recording status.
6.2. Recording with Microphone Commentary
You can add your voice commentary to your recordings:
- Connect a 3.5mm TRS standard microphone to the MIC IN port on the front panel.
- Connect headphones or speakers to the LINE OUT port to monitor audio.
- Proceed with basic recording steps (Section 6.1). Your microphone audio will be mixed with the video's audio.
Image 6.2: Illustration of connecting a 3.5mm TRS standard microphone to the EZCAP288 for commentary.
6.3. Saving Recorded Files
Recorded video files are saved directly to the connected USB storage device. Ensure the USB drive is formatted to FAT32 for optimal compatibility. The device supports recording up to 1080P resolution at 30 frames per second (fps) or 720P at 60fps.
Image 6.3: The EZCAP288 capturing and saving video streams to a connected USB storage device.
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
- Storage: When not in use, store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and dust.
- Cable Care: Handle cables gently. Avoid bending or crimping them excessively to prevent damage.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not power on. | Power adapter not connected or faulty. | Ensure power adapter is securely connected to the device and a working power outlet. |
| No video displayed on TV/monitor. | Incorrect cable connection; Source device not outputting signal; HDCP protected content. | Check HDMI IN/OUT connections. Ensure source device is powered on and outputting video. Note: This device does not support HDCP2.2 protected content. |
| Recording does not start or save. | USB drive not recognized; USB drive not FAT32 format; USB drive full or faulty. | Wait 10 seconds after inserting USB drive for recognition. Ensure USB drive is formatted to FAT32. Check available space or try a different USB drive. |
| Microphone audio not recorded. | Incorrect microphone type; Microphone not connected properly. | Ensure you are using a 3.5mm TRS standard microphone, not TRRS. Check microphone connection to the MIC IN port. |
| Cannot live stream. | Device limitation. | This version of the EZCAP288 does not support live streaming. It is designed for direct recording to USB storage. |
9. Specifications
- Model: EZCAP288
- Hardware Interface: HDMI
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080p (30fps), 720p (60fps)
- Input Ports: HDMI, AV (Composite Video/CVBS)
- Output Ports: HDMI (Pass-through), 3.5mm Line Out
- Audio Input: 3.5mm Mic In (TRS Standard)
- Storage Media: USB Flash Drive (FAT32, up to 128GB), USB Hard Drive (MBR partition, up to 2TB)
- Compatible Operating Systems (for source devices): Windows, Mac, Linux, Android
- Special Features: Lightweight, Portable, One-click recording, PC-free operation
- Item Weight: 200 g
- Package Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 4 cm
Image 9.1: A television screen displaying a 1080P video capture, highlighting the device's resolution capabilities.
10. Warranty Information
The MICROWARE EZCAP288 HDMI AV Video Capture Card comes with a 3-month warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use. It does not cover damage caused by misuse, accidents, unauthorized modifications, or improper installation.
Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
11. Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries regarding your MICROWARE EZCAP288, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer, Microware Multimedia Private Limited. Refer to your purchase documentation for specific contact details.
Manufacturer: Microware Multimedia Private Limited
