Getting Started with Cam Link 4K
This guide provides essential information for setting up and using your Elgato Cam Link 4K to achieve high-quality video streaming and recording.
Setting Up Cam Link 4K
- Connect Cam Link 4K to an available USB 3.0 port on your computer.
- Use an HDMI cable (not included) to connect your camera to the HDMI input on Cam Link 4K.
- Open your favorite video conferencing software and select Cam Link 4K as the camera. Cam Link 4K works seamlessly with popular video conferencing apps like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Hangouts, Skype, Slack, and Webex Meetings, among many others.
Compatibility:
- Windows 10
- Mac
Camera Tips
These tips will help ensure the best experience and image quality when using a camera with Cam Link 4K. Note that these are general tips and may not apply directly to every camera model.
- Disable Auto Shutoff: Most cameras have automatic power-off settings to prevent battery drain. For video calls, ensure your camera stays on indefinitely by disabling these settings, often found in the camera's power settings.
- Clean HDMI Output: Cameras may output graphical user interface elements like battery levels and resolution settings. This can be disabled in your camera's HDMI menu or by repeatedly pressing the 'info' button on the camera.
- Use an AC Adapter: Many cameras cannot operate and charge simultaneously. An AC adapter or a "dummy battery" is recommended to keep the camera powered on.
- Set to Movie Mode: Select Movie Mode, typically indicated by a film camera icon on the camera's mode dial, for optimal video performance.
Why Use Cam Link?
DSLR cameras offer significant advantages over traditional webcams for video streaming and recording. Here are some key benefits:
DSLR Advantages:
- Image Sensor: Larger image sensors capture more light and detail, resulting in better image quality.
- Low Light Performance: Features like sensor size and megapixel count contribute to superior low-light performance compared to webcams.
- Lenses: Interchangeable DSLR lenses allow for greater creative control, including increased zoom, better low-light imaging, shallow depth of field, and background blur (bokeh effect).
- Connectivity: DSLR cameras offer versatile connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth for wireless sharing, HDMI for video streaming, and SD card recording.
- Megapixels: Higher megapixel counts (image resolution) enhance fine detail and sharpness.
- Color Science: Manufacturers invest heavily in color science, which dictates how the sensor and Image Signal Processor (ISP) process and interpret colors, leading to more vibrant and accurate visuals.
- Dynamic Range: A wider dynamic range captures more detail in both the brightest and darkest parts of an image, resulting in more lifelike colors without losing detail in highlights or shadows.
- Manual Control: DSLR cameras provide comprehensive manual control over settings like exposure, ISO, and focus, allowing for precise image adjustments.
