Blackmagic Forum

Hi!

What's the lowest-cost BMD hardware I can use to plug into my Windows 10 Laptop to capture 1080p HD-SDI with?

I have USB 3.0 port x3 (SuperSpeed) and one Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port.

I initially though the UltraStudio Mini Recorder would do the job, but then a forum post said that the device can't be powered through USB-C.

So, it's that true...
1) Are there any... TB3 docks that will power an UltraStudio so I can go Laptop <- USBC -> Dock <- TB3 -> UltraStudio?

2) Should I just go find one of the old USB3 UltraStudio SDI?

Thanks!

apavloff wrote:I initially though the UltraStudio Mini Recorder would do the job, but then a forum post said that the device can't be powered through USB-C.

Where did you read that? The thing is that you need a propper USB-C to Thunderbolt 2 converter cable. As some cheaper chinese stuff doesn't handle the speed very well..

When using Apple i do recommend the official USB-C to TB converter from apple. But on windows i have no clue what to use..

Also you mention 1080P? What framerate are you targetting for? The Ultrastudio Mini recorders will do 1080P30 maximum!!

The Ultrastudio HD mini will do 1080P60 max UltraStudio HD Mini
Also the HD mini is direct USB-C and powered by USB-C!! So no converter cables needed!

Xtreemtec wrote:Also the HD mini is direct USB-C and powered by USB-C!! So no converter cables needed!

No, the HD Mini is Thunderbolt 3 - you can't use it on a regular Windows PC that just has USB-C, you need a dedicated Thunderbolt 3 interface. I love the unit though, it's given me excellent quality video into a new Macbook Pro with just a single cable, no extra power bricks or anything.