How to retrieve an external video and audio stream (HDMI, VGA, RCA, SCART)?

Easy Multi Display is not limited to files, websites or network streams: you can also display an external video and audio source on your video wall, such as a camera, a TV decoder, a game console, a DVD player or a laptop. All you need is a capture card that converts the external signal into a source readable by Windows, and then by EMD.

What is a capture card?

A capture card (or capture box) is a small piece of hardware that receives an external video signal and turns it into a video device recognised by Windows, exactly like a webcam. Depending on the model, it accepts different types of inputs:

HDMI (decoders, cameras, consoles, computers)
VGA (older PCs, industrial equipment)
RCA and SCART (VCRs, DVD players, analogue sources)

Most modern capture cards connect via USB: there is no need to open the computer or install an internal card. The audio signal from the source is usually carried along with the image (for example over HDMI) and captured at the same time as the video.

Connecting the external source

Connect your source (camera, decoder, console, etc.) to the input of the capture card using the appropriate cable (HDMI, VGA, RCA or SCART).
Plug the capture card into a USB port on the computer that drives the video wall.
Let Windows detect the new device. The card then appears as a video device (webcam type) in the list of hardware.

Displaying the source in Easy Multi Display

Once the card is recognised by Windows, it becomes a Capture source in Easy Multi Display:

Open EMD and go to the configuration of your display.
Add a new source of the Capture type.
Select the capture card from the list of available video devices.
Drag the source onto the video wall zone where you want to display it.

The image from the external source is then shown in real time in the chosen zone, along with the associated sound if your card carries the audio.

Tips for a high-quality display

Choose a capture card whose resolution and frame rate match your source (for example 1080p for a Full HD camera).
Check that the cable and input used (HDMI, VGA, RCA, SCART) match the signal provided by your source.
For older analogue sources (SCART, RCA), choose a card designed for this type of input.
This hardware capture approach is particularly robust: the stream stays local, without depending on the network, which guarantees reliability and security in the command room.

Support

If you run into difficulty, check the FAQ, download the user guide or contact customer support at support@easymultidisplay.com.