Use a DV camcorder as a video capture device for your computer.
If you have VHS tapes you'd like to preserve and duplicate, connect your VCR to your digital camcorder to create digital recordings of your tapes. Your DV camcorder works as a video capture device for your computer, provided that it offers analog audio and video input connections. According to the University of Michigan, recording DV footage in Long Play (LP) format allows 90 minutes of video to fit on a 60-minute tape. The video quality of LP footage is the same as Standard Play (SP), although compatibility issues can arise.
Instructions
1. Plug your DV camcorder into a wall outlet with an AC power adapter. Connect the VCR video output to the camcorder input with an S-Video cable. Connect the VCR audio output to the camcorder with an RCA cable, matching the left and right outputs to the correct inputs with the color coding on the cable.
2. Turn the menu wheel on the camcorder to "Record." If your camera has a slot for an SD memory card, insert the card. If you want to record the VHS footage on mini DV tape, press the "SP / LP" button on the camcorder to choose your recording mode. The setting will display on the camcorder's LCD screen.
3. Press "Play" on the VCR, and preview the video on a television. Use the VCR remote control to lower the sharpness of the player and to adjust the image settings for your recording. Press "Menu" on the remote control, and use the up and down arrow keys to set the color, contrast, balance, hue and saturation levels.
4. Press "Stop" on the VCR, and rewind the tape. Press "Record" on the camcorder, and press "Play" on the VCR. Preview the video you're recording on the camcorder's LCD display. Press "Stop" on the camcorder when you're finished recording.
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