Image Quality

For each of these images we have shown the image in the framebuffer on the left, and the true captured image on the right. Remember, by definition, the framebuffer image on the left is a true digital copy of the signal – some image quality is lost by the conversion to VGA by the GeForce 7800GT we used for these shots.

800x600

1024x768

1024x768 with additional sharpening of the captured image

1280x1024

1280x1024 with additional sharpening of the captured image

1600x1200

1600x1200 with additional sharpening of the captured image

2048x1536

2048x1536 with manual exposure of the image

2048x1536 with manual exposure and additional sharpenin

As you can see, the image quality of the VGA2USB is outstanding, particularly when considering the fact that it's around the size of a deck of cards. Although text sharpness remains very good at 1600x1200, particularly with some sharpening, the 3 megapixel text is blurry. Still, the detail that can be captured from the image in the background is superb. Occasionally, the "auto-exposure" mode of the VGA2USB will produce images that are too bright. Fortunately, you can manually adjust the exposure and once it is set, you will not need to alter it unless you change the display resolution.

Software

The bundled software with the VGA2USB is fairly simple; it allows you to capture still images in BMP, JPG, and PNG format, or AVI's using standard VFW compression CODECs. Time-lapse still capture is also possible. Drivers are included for Windows, MacOS X, and Linux, however the SDK required for making your own applications is only available for Windows. A full Windows and Linux SDK is available; the Linux VGA2USB driver supports V4L (Video4Linux).

Final Verdict:

The VGA2USB is the quintessential "niche product." Most of you will never need to use a VGA frame grabber. Nonetheless, if you did need a VGA frame grabber, the Epiphan VGA2USB would be a clear choice. It offers superb image quality in an easy-to-use package. So who needs a VGA frame grabber? Well, it's a valuable for those of you who want to capture high-definition still images from an Xbox 360 (keeping the motion artifacts in mind) or those of you who may want to have a device to let you use your laptop as a VGA monitor as you troubleshoot monitor-less workstations.