How do I connect a VGA input to my PC so that it shows up as a video device?

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This is the Windows/PC counter part of this question.
I want to clarify that I am not talking about connecting a VGA monitor to a computer. I'm referring to plugging in a VGA output in to my computer. I want the VGA feed to show up as a video device, so that I can run a projector's feed through UStream and be able to switch between that feed and the camera that I am using. The computer is a Lenovo Thinkpad.

What hardware is needed to digitize a VGA input in real time to send for broadcast?

daviesgeek

Posted 2012-05-07T17:24:23.603

Reputation: 1 469

Answers

5

What you need (for both mac and PC) is a VGA Capture Card or also known as a Frame Grabber. High end ones that can do 30fps+ at 1920x1200 are not cheap ($800+) but if you are willing to go to a lower resolution or be willing to do lower fps it can bring the price down a lot.

If you can get a signal like HDMI or Component from your projector it actually gets a lot cheaper as the market for buying those type of devices is a lot bigger.

Scott Chamberlain

Posted 2012-05-07T17:24:23.603

Reputation: 28 923

Thanks so much, Scott! I was actually just looking at those frame grabbers from Epiphan. I'm will wait a couple days for more answers, then accept yours. – daviesgeek – 2012-05-07T17:58:13.320

Check the new-egg link, it is always smart to shop around as sometimes the most expensive thing is not always the best thing. – Scott Chamberlain – 2012-05-07T18:00:20.200

I absolutely will! Thank you so much of your help! Side question: can I take a VGA feed, convert it to HDMI, then run it to an HDMI to USB cable? – daviesgeek – 2012-05-07T18:34:28.233

Yes but the cost of the VGA to HDMI converter + hdmi capture card may be more than just the cost of the VGA conveter alone. – Scott Chamberlain – 2012-05-07T18:36:58.220

Ok, I will look into it. I just wanted to make sure it was actually possible. :-) Thanks again! – daviesgeek – 2012-05-07T18:39:07.343

Asked: 2012-05-07T17:24:23.603

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Active: 2015-04-20T18:13:16.803