Importing VHS tape to a computer
Importing analog VHS video tapes onto a computer requires capturing the video and audio information from the tape and storing it as a digital computer file. This is useful for backing up important or sentimental VHS tapes and storing them on the computer in a format that will not degrade over time. All that is required is a VCR, a digital camera and capture software.
Instructions
Digital Camera Method
1. Download and install a video capture program such as AVS Video Converter, CamStudio or Windows Movie Maker. Run a wire from the VCR's RCA output jack and into a digital video camera.
2. Connect the digital video camera to the computer using a USB or Firewire cord. Turn the video camera on to "VCR" or "Playback" mode, and turn the VCR on and rewind the VHS tape to the beginning.
3. Run AVS Video Converter, CamStudio or Windows Movie Maker and the program will automatically recognize the video camera as the device being captured. Under the "Capture" tab, select an output path for the captured video file.
4. Click the "Start Capture" button and press the "Play" button on the VCR. The video will play through the camera and AVS Video Converter will capture the video.
TV Tuner/Video Capture Card Method
5. Install a TV tuner card or video capture card on the computer.
6. Connect the VCR's RCA output jacks directly to the TV tuner card or video capture card with a higher quality S-video cable or a standard RCA cord.
7. Use a program such as Windows Movie Maker, AVS Video Converter or CamStudio to capture the footage from the VCR onto the computer.
Tags: video camera, Video Converter, Converter CamStudio, Movie Maker, video capture, Video Converter CamStudio