Instead of letting VHS tapes go to the garbage pile, collect dust, and slowly wither away, give the footage new life and save space in your home with a DVD conversion. People do not have to be technically savvy in order to transfer VHS tapes to DVD, and many products help eliminate the work all together. Transfer your video collection to DVD and join the digital age.
DVD Recorder
Loop a VHS tape player into a DVD recorder in order to transfer the video. The set-up is simple and requires three RCA cables. Connect the three RCA cables into the VHS Audio/Video output. Older VCRs feature the outputs in the back, while newer models may have them in the front. Connect the other ends of the cables to the Input of the DVD recorder. Remember to match the colored cables to the proper slots. For example, yellow connectors attach to the video cable, while red and white cables attach to the audio connectors. Set the DVD to record on the "Input" channel and play the tape.
DVD Camcorder
Use an advanced DVD Camcorder with an "Input" port and a remote control. Use an RCA to mini-plug cable in order to connect it to the video camera. The mini-plug attaches to the "Input" of the camcorder, while the RCA cables attach to the "Output" of the video camera. When in the camera's VCR mode, wait for the Input connection to fully appear on the screen. Hold "Play" then "Record" on the remote in order to start the capture, and then press "Play" on the VCR.
Dazzle DVC
Use your computer in order to store the video and burn the DVD using a DVD-RW drive. A capturing product like the Dazzle DVC will allow you to connect your VCR easily using RCA cables. The Dazzle connects through a USB cable and feeds video to a computer using its own software. Limit clips to 10 minutes in order to avoid an audio delay on the final product. Edit together the final video through Dazzle's software and burn the final project using a burning program like Nero Burning Rom.
DV/SVHS Deck
Purchase a Mini DV/SVHS dual deck used by professional editors and schools. These specialized VCRs are equipped for computer connections and provide the best playback of tapes. Precision control can also be made to start at the exact location. Simply plug a DV cable in from the VCR deck to the computer's DV input and use a compatible capturing program like Windows Movie Maker in order to capture footage. Once all the footage is captured, burn a DVD.
Professional Service
If none of the electronics or methods are available in your home, a professional can complete the job using specific software. Wal-Mart, Ritz Camera, Walgreens, and several other retailers offer VHS to DVD conversion services for as low as $20 in many cases. They can only convert home footage though, so old VHS movies or television shows will have to be converted at home. The DVDs provide custom menus, covers and even music videos.
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