capturemoduler

Capturemoduler is a modular data-capture platform designed to enable flexible collection and processing of multiple data streams through interchangeable capture modules. The term describes both hardware devices that accept plug-in capture cards and the software environment that coordinates data acquisition, synchronization, and storage. The design emphasizes portability, scalability, and interoperability across signal types and formats.

At its core is a central controller that provides power, bandwidth management, and a software API. Attached to it are capture modules that handle inputs such as video signals (HDMI/SDI), audio channels, network streams, or sensor data. Modules connect via a common backplane or interconnect and can be added or removed without powering down. Firmware and software manage timecode, metadata, and data routing.

Supported formats depend on installed modules. Typical capabilities include high-bandwidth video capture, low-latency ingest, multi-source aggregation, and time synchronization with external clocks. The platform provides tools for configuring modules, managing queues, and exporting data in standard formats with plugin hooks for custom processing.

Applications span professional video production, scientific instrumentation, live events, archival work, and robotics. The modular approach lets users tailor hardware, upgrade components over time, and replace parts without entire device replacement. Challenges include driver support, thermal and power management for multiple modules, and ensuring consistent timing across inputs.

The concept emerged from efforts to unify various data capture needs within an extensible platform. Open APIs and modular hardware communities contribute to ongoing development and interoperability. See also modular hardware and data capture.