FramePort displays a local video feed in a VS Code editor tab, so you can view an FPGA or another device’s HDMI output beside your code. For HDMI, you need a USB capture card; the extension is not itself an HDMI input port. The project author describes device capture in its public preview as requiring macOS, desktop VS Code, and FFmpeg.
What FramePort does
FramePort brings a live video preview into the VS Code editing workspace. Its author, Tyrone Marhguy, says he started the project while building Tomato, a custom 32-bit computer with a dual-LUT ALU on an Artix-7 FPGA. He wanted to see the computer’s HDMI output without switching to a separate viewing application. The same approach may be useful when developing with other USB video sources.
The video appears in an editor tab, making it possible to keep a device’s picture visible while writing code in VS Code. FramePort handles the feed only: keyboard and mouse input to the target device remain separate. It is not a remote desktop or a way to control the connected hardware.
What you need for HDMI capture
The signal path is HDMI-output device → USB capture card → Mac running desktop VS Code and FFmpeg. The capture card converts the HDMI signal into a USB video source that the host can use; FramePort does not replace that hardware.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
- A Mac: the author’s stated public-preview requirements for device capture specify macOS.
- Desktop VS Code: the described setup is for the desktop editor, not VS Code in a browser.
- FFmpeg: the author lists it as a requirement for device capture.
- A USB HDMI capture card for an HDMI source.
Depending on the source device, capture card, and Mac ports, you may also need HDMI or USB cables or adapters. There is no single cable arrangement established for every setup.
Set up the video path
- Check the source output. Confirm that the FPGA, computer, or other device has an HDMI output and determine the signal formats it can provide.
- Choose a capture card for the whole chain. Check its input and supported formats against the source device, and confirm that its connection and software support suit your Mac. The project information reviewed does not name a capture-card model as verified for FramePort.
- Connect the hardware. Run HDMI from the source device to the capture card, then connect the card to the Mac over USB. Add adapters only if the ports on your equipment require them.
- Meet the software requirements. Use desktop VS Code on macOS and have FFmpeg available, as specified by the project author. Consult the current FramePort Marketplace or Open VSX listing for its present installation steps and availability; those can change.
- Open the FramePort preview. Once the extension and capture device are available to the host, use FramePort to view the feed in an editor tab. If no picture appears, check the physical connections, the capture card’s compatibility with the source and Mac, and whether the host can access the video device.
Preview, screenshots, and recording
The project describes a live preview with adjustable scaling, a way to freeze the preview, PNG screenshots, and silent MP4 recording. Freezing the displayed preview is distinct from stopping a recording: according to the author, recording continues while the preview is paused, so you can inspect a frame without interrupting the clip.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
The clips are described as silent. The feature description does not establish audio capture, so do not rely on FramePort to record sound from the HDMI source.
Check compatibility before buying a card
The project information does not publish a tested capture-card list, a guaranteed video-format or resolution range, frame rates, latency measurements, or a complete USB camera compatibility matrix. That means a card advertised as a generic USB capture device is not automatically confirmed to work with FramePort.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Microsoft has described a separate Windows test framework for DirectShow-compatible USB capture cards, including a general indication that a device appearing as a Camera in Windows may work with that framework. That is not a FramePort compatibility test and does not establish Windows support for FramePort.
- Confirm the capture card supports the source’s HDMI output format.
- Confirm its host compatibility and required software for the Mac you intend to use.
- Check that its USB connector or any required adapter fits your Mac.
- Look for a return option if you cannot confirm the exact combination before purchase.
Where to get FramePort
The project page identifies VS Code Marketplace and Open VSX as listing locations. Because listing status, version, and installation steps can change, check the live listing on your preferred marketplace before relying on a particular version or setup procedure. The project is described as a public preview, and its stated device-capture requirements are limited to macOS, desktop VS Code, and FFmpeg; the available information does not establish support for Windows or Linux.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
