I'm looking to build a makeshift external PCIe capture card setup for my Windows-based system. I know there are external PCIe streaming devices available, but I'd love to customize one. I've got a couple of SDI/HDMI capture cards that are typically meant for a custom rig, like those from Blackmagic or Kona. I'd like to make one of them portable by putting it in an external PCIe enclosure that connects via USB—preferably USB 3.0. I've noticed a lot of Thunderbolt options for Mac, but I'm working with a Windows 11 setup. Any suggestions on how to make this work?
3 Answers
Honestly, USB 3.0 doesn't have enough bandwidth for most capture cards. If you're going to get solid performance, you'll really need to go with Thunderbolt. It has way better transfer rates than USB 3.0. Just saying!
Just a heads up, Thunderbolt is essentially PCIe over USB-C. It’s definitely not Mac-exclusive! You'll need a computer with Thunderbolt 3 support, and then you can find an external PCIe case that connects via Thunderbolt 3. Don’t try to use USB 3.0 A-type ports for this; they won't work!
Consider checking out the AJA u-tap. It can do a lot, but I'm not sure if it'll fit your existing cards since you want to utilize your current equipment instead of buying something new.
That’s the goal! I’d prefer to use what I already have rather than shelling out more cash for a new device.
But wait, I wonder why companies like Elgato manage to use USB for their external devices then. Seems like it should work!