Experiencing "No Signal" errors with your Elgato capture card in OBS? This frustrating issue often stems from HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) blocking your video feed. Whether you're using HD60 S+, 4K60 Pro, or Stream Deck models, this comprehensive guide provides proven solutions to get your Elgato capture card working perfectly with OBS Studio.
What is HDCP and Why Does It Block Elgato?
HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) is a copy protection system built into gaming consoles, streaming devices, and content sources to prevent unauthorized recording or streaming of copyrighted content.
Why Elgato Shows "No Signal"
When HDCP is active, your source device encrypts the video signal, making it unreadable by capture cards. Common HDCP-protected sources include:
- PlayStation 5/4 — Netflix, Disney+, Blu-ray movies, some games
- Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One — Streaming apps, 4K media content
- Nintendo Switch — Rare instances with certain apps
- Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV — All streaming content
- Cable/Satellite boxes — Premium channels, on-demand content
⚖️ Legal Note: The methods below are intended for recording your own gameplay, educational content, or non-copyrighted material. Always respect copyright laws and streaming service terms of use.
Quick Fixes: Try These First (5 Minutes)
Before diving into complex solutions, try these simple fixes that resolve 60% of "No Signal" issues:
- Power cycle everything:
- Unplug Elgato capture card for 10 seconds
- Restart your gaming console/source device
- Close and reopen OBS Studio
- Reconnect HDMI cables firmly
- Check HDMI cables:
- Use high-speed HDMI 2.0+ cables
- Try different HDMI ports on your console
- Ensure cables are fully seated
- Test with different source:
- Connect a laptop or different device
- If it works, the issue is HDCP from your original source
Method 1: Disable HDCP on Source Device
The most effective solution is disabling HDCP at the source. Here's how for popular devices:
PlayStation 5 / PlayStation 4
- Go to Settings → System
- Select "HDMI" or "HDCP" settings
- Disable "Enable HDCP" or set it to "Off"
- Restart your PlayStation
- Launch OBS and test the Elgato feed
Note: You won't be able to use Netflix, Disney+, or other streaming apps while HDCP is disabled, but gaming will work perfectly.
Xbox Series X/S / Xbox One
- Press the Xbox button to open the guide
- Navigate to Settings → General → TV & display options
- Select "Video modes"
- Uncheck "Allow 4K" and "Allow HDR10" temporarily
- Go to "Advanced" → Video output
- Set HDMI to "Auto-detect" or lower resolution
- Restart Xbox and test capture
Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch rarely uses HDCP, but if experiencing issues:
- Go to System Settings → TV Settings
- Set "TV Resolution" to 720p temporarily
- Set "TV Sound" to "Stereo"
- Test capture in OBS
Method 2: Use HDMI Splitter (HDCP Stripper)
An HDMI splitter with HDCP stripping capability creates a non-protected signal copy for your Elgato. This is the most reliable hardware solution.
Recommended HDCP Strippers (Tested)
| Product | Resolution Support | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ViewHD HDMI Splitter | 4K@60fps, 1080p | $25-40 | General streaming |
| OREI HDMI Splitter | 4K@30fps, HDR | $30-50 | Console gaming |
| J-Tech HDMI Splitter | 1080p@60fps | $15-25 | Budget option |
| SIIG HDMI Splitter | 4K@60fps, HDR10 | $40-70 | Professional streaming |
How to Set Up HDMI Splitter
- Connect your source (PS5, Xbox) to the splitter's INPUT
- Connect OUTPUT 1 to your TV/monitor
- Connect OUTPUT 2 to your Elgato capture card
- Power on the splitter before turning on source device
- Launch OBS and configure Video Capture Device
💡 Pro Tip: Look for splitters specifically labeled as "HDCP compliant" or that mention "downscaling" — these typically strip HDCP protection automatically.
Method 3: Update Elgato Software and Drivers
Outdated Elgato software often causes compatibility issues with OBS and newer devices.
Update Elgato Game Capture Software
- Download the latest Elgato Game Capture software
- Uninstall old versions completely from Control Panel
- Restart your computer
- Install the newest version as administrator
- Update device firmware when prompted
- Test in Elgato software first, then switch to OBS
Install OBS Studio Plugins
Elgato provides official OBS integration:
- Download OBS Studio latest version (28.0+)
- Install the Elgato Stream Deck plugin if using Stream Deck
- Add "Video Capture Device" source in OBS
- Select your Elgato device from the dropdown
- Configure resolution and frame rate settings
Method 4: Configure OBS Video Capture Device Settings
Proper OBS configuration is crucial for Elgato compatibility:
Optimal OBS Settings for Elgato
- Add Video Capture Device:
- Sources → Add → Video Capture Device
- Name it "Elgato" for easy identification
- Device Settings:
- Device: Select your Elgato model (HD60 S+, 4K60 Pro, etc.)
- Resolution/FPS Type: Custom
- Resolution: 1920x1080 (or 1280x720 for older hardware)
- FPS: 60 (or 30 if experiencing drops)
- Format Settings:
- Video Format: NV12 or YUY2
- Color Space: 709
- Color Range: Partial
- Audio Settings:
- Use custom audio device: Checked
- Audio Device: Select Elgato audio input
Advanced Properties
If still experiencing issues, try these advanced settings:
- Buffering: Auto-detect or Manual (400ms)
- Deinterlacing: Disable
- Hardware decoding: Enable if available
- Low latency mode: Enable for gaming
Method 5: Fix USB Connection Issues
USB connectivity problems frequently cause "No Signal" errors, especially with USB 3.0 capture cards.
USB Troubleshooting Steps
- Use USB 3.0 or higher:
- Connect Elgato to blue USB 3.0+ ports
- Avoid USB hubs or extension cables
- Use the included USB cable when possible
- Update USB drivers:
- Device Manager → Universal Serial Bus controllers
- Right-click each USB device → Update driver
- Restart computer after updates
- Disable USB power management:
- Device Manager → USB controllers
- Right-click → Properties → Power Management
- Uncheck "Allow computer to turn off this device"
- Try different USB ports:
- Test rear motherboard USB ports (more stable power)
- Avoid front panel USB connections
- If using laptop, try both left and right ports
Device-Specific Solutions
Elgato HD60 S+ / HD60 S
Common Issue: USB bandwidth limitations
Solutions:
- Set capture resolution to 1080p30 instead of 60fps
- Use NV12 color format in OBS
- Close other USB devices during capture
- Update to latest firmware via Elgato software
Elgato 4K60 Pro / 4K60 Pro MK.2
Common Issue: PCIe lane conflicts
Solutions:
- Install in x4 or x8 PCIe slot (not x1)
- Check motherboard manual for optimal slot placement
- Disable integrated graphics if using dedicated GPU
- Set Windows to "High Performance" power plan
Elgato Stream Deck (with built-in capture)
Common Issue: Software conflicts
Solutions:
- Update Stream Deck software to version 6.0+
- Install separate 4K Capture Utility
- Use dedicated Video Capture Device source in OBS
- Don't run Elgato software and OBS simultaneously
Advanced Troubleshooting
Check Windows Device Manager
- Right-click Start button → Device Manager
- Look for "Elgato" under "Cameras" or "Sound, video and game controllers"
- If you see yellow warning triangles:
- Right-click → Update driver
- Select "Browse my computer for drivers"
- Point to Elgato software installation folder
- If device appears as "Unknown Device":
- Uninstall and reinstall Elgato software
- Restart computer with capture card disconnected
- Reconnect after full boot
Registry Fix for Windows (Advanced Users)
If experiencing persistent driver issues:
- Press Windows Key + R, type
regedit - Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\{4d36e968-e325-11ce-bfc1-08002be10318} - Look for Elgato-related entries
- Right-click and delete corrupted entries
- Restart computer and reinstall Elgato software
⚠️ Registry Warning: Only attempt this if comfortable with system modifications. Back up your registry first using "File → Export" in Registry Editor.
Test with Alternative Software
To isolate whether the issue is OBS-specific:
- Elgato Game Capture HD software — Official Elgato app
- VLC Media Player — File → Open Capture Device → Video device name
- Windows Camera app — Sometimes recognizes capture cards
- Streamlabs OBS — Alternative to OBS Studio with different drivers
If video appears in other software but not OBS, the issue is likely OBS configuration rather than HDCP.
Prevention Tips for Future Capture Sessions
- Always disable HDCP on gaming consoles before streaming
- Keep Elgato software updated — check monthly for new releases
- Use quality HDMI cables — certified High Speed HDMI 2.1 cables
- Test setup before important streams — don't discover issues during live broadcasts
- Have backup recording method — console's built-in recording as fallback
- Monitor USB bandwidth — close unnecessary USB devices during capture
- Document working settings — save OBS scene collections with proven configurations
- Keep HDMI splitter handy — useful for HDCP-protected content
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does my Elgato show "No Signal" only with certain games?
Some games trigger HDCP protection automatically, especially those with licensed content (sports games with real teams, movie tie-ins). The game itself may activate HDCP even if your console settings have it disabled. Try using an HDMI splitter or switching to a different game to test.
Can I use multiple Elgato capture cards simultaneously?
Yes, but with limitations. USB models may conflict due to bandwidth restrictions — use different USB controllers if possible. PCIe cards (like 4K60 Pro) can usually run multiple units. Each requires its own Video Capture Device source in OBS.
Is it legal to bypass HDCP protection?
Bypassing HDCP for personal gameplay recording and streaming your own content is generally legal. However, recording copyrighted movies, TV shows, or protected streaming content violates DMCA and service terms. Always respect content creator rights and platform guidelines.
Why does my capture work in Elgato software but not OBS?
This indicates the capture card is working properly, but OBS configuration needs adjustment. Try changing video format to NV12, reducing resolution to 1080p30, or updating OBS to the latest version. Close Elgato software completely before using OBS.
Do I need the latest Elgato software for older capture cards?
Yes. Even older Elgato devices benefit from software updates that improve OBS compatibility, fix Windows 11 issues, and resolve USB driver conflicts. Download the latest version from Elgato's official site.
What should I do if none of these solutions work?
Contact Elgato's official support with your specific device model, computer specs, and a description of troubleshooting steps you've tried. They can provide device-specific guidance or determine if hardware replacement is needed.