The Elgato HD60S+ is a powerful and popular capture card that allows gamers and content creators to record and stream their gameplay in stunning high definition. With its ease of use and impressive features, it’s no wonder why the HD60S+ has become a staple in the gaming and streaming communities. However, setting up the device can seem daunting, especially for those who are new to capturing and streaming gameplay. Fear not, dear reader, for this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of setting up your Elgato HD60S+ from start to finish.
Step 1: Unboxing and Hardware Check
Before we dive into the setup process, let’s take a moment to unbox and inspect our Elgato HD60S+. Inside the box, you should find:
- The Elgato HD60S+ capture card
- A USB-C to USB-C cable
- A USB-C to USB-A adapter
- A Quick Start Guide
- A power adapter (depending on your region)
Take a moment to inspect the capture card and ensure that it’s free from any damage or defects. The HD60S+ is a compact device, measuring only 3.8 x 2.8 x 0.6 inches, making it easy to fit into even the most cramped of spaces.
Step 2: Connecting Your Devices
Now that we’ve unboxed and inspected our capture card, it’s time to connect our devices. The HD60S+ can capture gameplay from a variety of sources, including consoles, PCs, and even cameras.
Connecting a Console (PS4, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch)
To connect your console to the HD60S+, you’ll need an HDMI cable. Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the HDMI OUT port on your console, and the other end to the HDMI IN port on the HD60S+. Make sure that your console is set to output at a resolution of 1080p or lower, as the HD60S+ can only capture up to 1080p at 60fps.
Connecting a PC
Connecting your PC to the HD60S+ is slightly more involved. You’ll need to connect your PC to the HD60S+ using a USB-C to USB-C cable or a USB-C to USB-A adapter. You’ll also need to install the Elgato Game Capture software, which we’ll cover in a later section.
Connecting a Camera
If you want to capture footage from a camera, such as a webcam or a DSLR, you’ll need to connect it to the HD60S+ using an HDMI cable. Make sure that your camera is set to output at a resolution of 1080p or lower, and that it’s set to use an HDMI output.
Step 3: Installing the Elgato Game Capture Software
With our devices connected, it’s time to install the Elgato Game Capture software. This software is what allows us to capture and stream our gameplay, and it’s available for both Windows and macOS.
Downloading and Installing the Software
To download the Elgato Game Capture software, head to the Elgato website and navigate to the downloads section. From there, select your operating system and download the software. Once the download is complete, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the software.
Setting Up the Software
Once the software is installed, launch it and you’ll be greeted by a setup wizard. The setup wizard will guide you through the process of setting up your capture card and configuring your settings.
Important: Make sure that you select the correct capture card device during the setup process. If you’re using an HD60S+, select “HD60S+” as your device.
Step 4: Configuring Your Settings
Now that we’ve installed the Elgato Game Capture software, it’s time to configure our settings. The software offers a range of customizable settings, from video quality to audio settings.
Video Settings
The video settings allow us to adjust the quality of our captured footage. We can adjust the resolution, bitrate, and frames per second to achieve the perfect balance between quality and file size.
Tip: If you’re planning to stream your gameplay, you’ll want to set your video bitrate to around 4500-6000 kbps. This will ensure that your stream is high quality, but won’t use too much bandwidth.
Audio Settings
The audio settings allow us to adjust the quality of our captured audio. We can adjust the bitrate, sample rate, and gain to achieve the perfect balance between quality and file size.
Tip: If you’re using a separate microphone, such as a Blue Yeti, make sure to select it as your audio input device.
Step 5: Capturing and Streaming Your Gameplay
With our settings configured, it’s time to start capturing and streaming our gameplay! The Elgato Game Capture software makes it easy to start capturing, with a simple and intuitive interface.
Starting a Capture
To start a capture, simply click the “Start Capture” button in the software. The HD60S+ will begin capturing your gameplay, and the software will display a preview of the footage.
Streaming Your Gameplay
To stream your gameplay, you’ll need to connect your capture card to a streaming platform, such as Twitch or YouTube Live. The Elgato Game Capture software makes it easy to connect to these platforms, with built-in support for popular streaming services.
Tip: Make sure to test your stream before going live to ensure that everything is working correctly.
Conclusion
Setting up your Elgato HD60S+ is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be capturing and streaming your gameplay in no time. Remember to experiment with the software’s settings to achieve the perfect balance between quality and file size, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the Elgato community if you encounter any issues.
| Spec | Description |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Up to 1080p at 60fps |
| Bitrate | Up to 40 Mbps |
| Audio | Up to 24-bit, 48 kHz |
| Connectivity | HDMI, USB-C, USB-A |
The Elgato HD60S+ is a powerful and versatile capture card that’s perfect for gamers and content creators. With its ease of use and impressive features, it’s no wonder why it’s become a staple in the gaming and streaming communities.
What is the Elgato HD60S+ and what are its key features?
The Elgato HD60S+ is a high-definition video capture card designed for capturing and streaming gameplay, as well as other video content, from a variety of sources such as consoles, PCs, and cameras. Its key features include 1080p60 video quality, 10-bit HDR support, low latency, and seamless compatibility with popular streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube.
The HD60S+ also boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to take on the go, and a USB-C connection for hassle-free setup. Additionally, the device supports 4K60 HDR pass-through, allowing you to play your games in 4K while simultaneously capturing and streaming in 1080p. Overall, the Elgato HD60S+ is an excellent choice for content creators, gamers, and streamers who demand high-quality video and reliable performance.
What kind of computer do I need to use the Elgato HD60S+?
To use the Elgato HD60S+, you’ll need a computer that meets the minimum system requirements, which include a Windows 10 64-bit or macOS 10.15 (or later) operating system, a 2.5 GHz dual-core CPU, 4 GB of RAM, and a USB-C port. However, for optimal performance, Elgato recommends a more powerful computer with a quad-core CPU and at least 8 GB of RAM.
If you’re unsure about your computer’s specifications, you can check the manufacturer’s website or consult with a sales representative. Keep in mind that the HD60S+ is a resource-intensive device, so having a decent computer is crucial for running it smoothly. It’s also important to ensure that your computer has a USB-C port, as the HD60S+ uses this connection to interface with your computer.
How do I set up my Elgato HD60S+ for the first time?
Setting up your Elgato HD60S+ for the first time is a straightforward process that involves installing the required software, connecting the device to your computer, and configuring your streaming settings. First, download and install the Elgato Game Capture HD software from the official Elgato website. Next, connect the HD60S+ to your computer using the provided USB-C cable, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process.
During setup, you’ll be prompted to select your streaming platform, choose your video quality settings, and configure your audio input. Take your time to read through the instructions carefully and make sure to test your stream before going live. It’s also a good idea to consult the user manual or online resources if you encounter any issues during the setup process.
Can I use the Elgato HD60S+ with my existing gaming console?
Yes, the Elgato HD60S+ is compatible with a wide range of gaming consoles, including the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch. To use the HD60S+ with your console, simply connect the console to the device using an HDMI cable, and then connect the HD60S+ to your computer using a USB-C cable.
Make sure to set the output resolution on your console to 1080p or lower, as the HD60S+ can only capture up to 1080p60. You may also need to adjust the audio settings on your console to ensure that the audio is sent to the HD60S+. Consult the user manual or online resources for specific instructions on how to set up your console for use with the HD60S+.
How do I record gameplay using the Elgato HD60S+?
To record gameplay using the Elgato HD60S+, open the Elgato Game Capture HD software and select the “Record” option. Choose your desired video quality settings, such as resolution, bitrate, and framerate, and then click the “Record” button to start capturing your gameplay. You can also use the software to trim, edit, and upload your recorded footage to popular video sharing platforms.
During recording, make sure to monitor your computer’s performance to avoid any latency or dropped frames. You can also use the software to add overlays, such as watermarks or logos, to your recorded footage. Additionally, the HD60S+ allows you to record gameplay in 1080p60, ensuring that your footage looks smooth and crisp.
Can I use the Elgato HD60S+ for live streaming?
Yes, the Elgato HD60S+ is designed for live streaming and is compatible with popular streaming platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Gaming. To start streaming, simply open the Elgato Game Capture HD software, select your streaming platform, and choose your desired video quality settings. Then, click the “Stream” button to go live and start broadcasting your gameplay to your audience.
During streaming, make sure to monitor your stream’s performance and adjust your settings as needed to ensure a smooth and stable broadcast. You can also use the software to add overlays, such as chat windows or donation alerts, to your stream. Additionally, the HD60S+ delivers low latency and high-quality video, making it an excellent choice for live streaming.
What kind of customer support does Elgato offer for the HD60S+?
Elgato offers comprehensive customer support for the HD60S+, including online resources, such as user manuals, FAQs, and tutorial videos, as well as email and phone support. You can also visit the Elgato website to access the community forums, where you can ask questions, share knowledge, and get tips from other users.
If you encounter any issues with your HD60S+, you can contact Elgato’s customer support team for assistance. They offer prompt and helpful support, and will work with you to resolve any problems you may be experiencing. Additionally, Elgato regularly releases firmware updates and software improvements, ensuring that your HD60S+ stays up-to-date and performs at its best.