Originally Posted by
Mr_P
Decklink cards are designed primarily for use in NLE systems where every frame is required to be captured (from a deck) and 'real-time' does not matter.The Deckink Card has the ability to buffer frames built in, so that none are lost when transferring footage from deck to timeline. Nothing outside of the decklink card buffers frames. Decklink drivers do not give access to turn off this feature - and it is not something that can be turned off by a firmware update or within Catalyst Software. This card is not specifically designed for 'LIVE' use - as is the nature when used with Catalyst Software
Decklink just sell cards 'as is' - they dont support or communicate with Software designers.
The random nature of when a decklink card buffers frames is an issue that cannot be resolved. Users can streamline their systems as best as possible to ensure that sufficient bandwidth is available and cross your fingers that the card will not need to buffer any frames. Its a bit of trial end error to see what works for you.
For all the reasons above, this is why time and effort has been spent working with Active Silicon to develop capture cards that do not buffer the video input. Richard has worked very closely with AS to write drivers and ensure that their LFG and Phoenix cards have the lowest latency possible and that no video input is buffered.
The cost of an LFG4 (composite) card is less than that of a Decklink HD Extreme. The dual input Phoenix 2xSDI card (when available) is about the same price as 2xDecklink HD Extreme.
I would always recommend setting aside enough 'prep' time - outside of your production - to test and ensure that any of these cards to operate in the manner in which you expect them to perform...
If you require any assistance, do contact me.
Simon
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