How do I split and capture the video on the DVI output on MacBook Pro?

[kmxe]

I am currently doing some Video DJing using a program called Scratch Live which includes a video plug-in (www.scratchlive.net). This programs allows me to mix video clips etc Currently I view the main output window that Scratch Live produces onto another computer monitor via the DVI output on the MacBook Pro.

What I would ideally like to do is to somehow split the DVI out so I can 1) View the main output window while I mix and 2) capture the output window.

I bought myself the Canopus ADVC 110 not only so I can capture VHS tapes, but to also capture the main output when I am mixing video.

I am lost as to what my options are, I've read in other forums that a simple DVI splitter cable would not work (something about the video quality). I've also read that a 'component distribution amp' would be my best solution.

I want to know what are my options, considering the gear that I have (mainly the Canopus ADVC 110 that I just put down good money for) as it has a S-Video/Component inputs. I don't quite understand DVI and S-Video etc so I'm not sure what can be plugged/converted/split into what etc. I understand that I would probably have to buy some other bits of hardware but before I do I want to know what all my options are and what to consider etc.

I appreciate any reply

[edDV]

You need to drop back to S-Video. The ADVC-110 doesn't cap component. Nothing caps DVI unless you are willing to spend $$$.

What resolution are you using?

[kmxe]

thanks for the quick reply!

the screen resolution on my MacBook Pro is 1440x900

I tried using a DVI to S-Video converter, but when I plug this in the screen resolution on my MacBook Pro screws up to something smaller, and the capture program sees my desktop.

You mentioned that nothing captures DVI unless I'm willing to spend money - can you let me know what options there are? It might be a worthwhile investment

[edDV]

I mean resolution for your DJ rig and display. Effective resolution of S-Video at it's best is 640x576 to 704x576.

To cap higher resolution from DVI/HDMI your would need a Mac Pro Desktop and then investigate capture card products from AJA or BlackMagic. Best to hire a consultant to set it up.

http://www.aja.com/html/products_macintosh.html
http://www.blackmagic-design.com/products/

Or get a PC and try component analog with the Hauppauge HD-PVR $299.
http://www.hauppauge.com/site/products/data_hdpvr.html

[kmxe]

the resolution of my DJ rig is whatever the MacBook Pro is because it runs on the MacBook Pro.

ill have a look at what suggested - any other ideas or possibilities?

[edDV]

the resolution of my DJ rig is whatever the MacBook Pro is because it runs on the MacBook Pro.

ill have a look at what suggested - any other ideas or possibilities?

I don't fully understand what you are trying to do. Capture from DVI is very difficult.

[kmxe]

Ok, i'll try to be clear.

ScratchLive is the videoDJ program I run on the MacBook Pro. the program is designed so that the final output is displayed on a secondary screen, so a dual screen setup. i want to (one way or the other) capture what is happening on the secondary screen which would have the final output video as a full screen.

i thought that I could somehow capture the secondary display by somehow using the DVI output.

if i can capture the secondary display through another way (if from the DVI output is very difficult) then so be it!