Capture Hardware Recommendations
For capture, you'll need a computer, capture device, and possibly some additional hardware. See below for our recommendations on each.
Computer
Refer to the recommendations on this page.
Capture Device
Single Feed Capture Solution
We recommend using one of the the U-TAP devices listed below. Regardless, be sure to keep the assorted cables on hand so you're ready for any situation.
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AJA capture devices provide a simple setup, no drivers, and higher resolutions that makes these devices ideal for any scenario. One USB type B (3.0) to USB adapter comes with the AJA U-TAP device. If you have a 2017 or above MacBook Pro, you'll need to purchase a USB-C to USB adapter. Purchasing a second U-TAP as a backup is encouraged.
To utilize any HDMI/SDI connection, pair either U-TAP device with a Decimator MD-LX HDMI/SDI Bidirectional Converter. This method will remove the need to purchase two U-TAP devices, if you are planning to capture both SDI and HDMI feeds.
Click here for instructions on setting up the U-TAP with Sportscode.
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Assorted Cables
(2x) HDMI Cable
(2x) SDI Cable (BNC Connector)
(1x) USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adaptor
Picking up two of each cable will not only help you adapt to any situation, but ensure there's always a backup on hand.
Multi-Angle SDI/HDMI Feed Capture Solutions
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This is a great option for capturing multiple video feeds via HDMI or SDI and works great with Hudl Sportscode.
2 or fewer feeds (for 2 feeds, purchase 2)
- SDI - Antrica ANT-2551
- HDMI - Antrica ANT-2200
4 or fewer feeds
- SDI - Antrica ANT-2554
- HDMI - Antrica ANT-2204
5 or more feeds
- Buy another encoder and connect the ethernet cables all into one router.
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Assorted Equipment
- 1x Switch/Router - The number of ports needs to equal to the number of feeds you have plus one for the computer. For example, if you have two feeds coming in, you must have a switch with at least three ports.
- Cat6 Network Cables - Tike the switch, you need as many ethernet cables as you have feeds, plus one more for the computer. For example, if you have four feeds, you need five ethernet cables.
- 1x USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adaptor
- 1x Switch/Router - The number of ports needs to equal to the number of feeds you have plus one for the computer. For example, if you have two feeds coming in, you must have a switch with at least three ports.
Cameras and Video Feeds
While we don’t recommend any specific cameras, most cameras with an HDMI or SDI output are compatible with the AJA U-TAP devices or IP encoders. Additionally, the feed must be at or below 1080p60fps.
Be sure to double check that your camera doesn’t have HDCP protection on output, which will require you to use an HDMI splitter in order to capture the feed.
Additional Capture Hardware
These tools are not necessary for every capture but may be required for certain situations. We recommend you have them on hand, just in case.
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Ethernet Adaptor
Belkin USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter
This allows the ethernet cable from the router to plug into the MacBook.
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1080i/720p Converter
Decimator MD-HX Miniature HDMI/SDI Cross Converter
This device displays the specifications of the incoming video feed, allowing easier matching in Hudl Sportscode. It also allows you to convert any HD video signal into specified video resolutions and frame rates. It can also be used to split video feeds as well. Every scenario is different - this device ensures you're equipped for them all.
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HDMI Splitter
If you're capturing from a DVR or cable box, you'll need one of these to capture that video feed in Hudl Sportscode.