copy video to computer

[Guest]

Hi, Can anyone help? I would like with my very limited knowledge to copy from
my camcorder to the computer to save on dvd. However my camcorder is a
ferguson pro8-220(a bit old) it doesn't have a usb connection. I have read
the video section on this site and am now more confused than ever. Is this
procedure beyond me. I thought in my ignorance that if i could connect it
some way then i would just copy it to windows movie maker and then onto a
dvd disc. Any help gratefully recieved many thanks. Tiv--
Tiv Barker

 

[Cari \(MS-MVP\)]

First of all a USB connection from a camcorder is not needed.... if it's an
analog camcorder (uses VHS-C or Hi-8 tapes) then you'll need an analog
capture card. If it's a digital camcorder (uses Mini-DV tapes) then you
would use a firewire cable and firewire port in your PC.

So let's go from this point and you tell us exactly what you have and we'll
let you know what you need!

 

[NoNoBadDog!]

Hi, Can anyone help? I would like with my very limited knowledge to copy
from
my camcorder to the computer to save on dvd. However my camcorder is a
ferguson pro8-220(a bit old) it doesn't have a usb connection. I have read
the video section on this site and am now more confused than ever. Is this
procedure beyond me. I thought in my ignorance that if i could connect it
some way then i would just copy it to windows movie maker and then onto a
dvd disc. Any help gratefully recieved many thanks. Tiv--
Tiv Barker

As Cari stated, you'll need an analog capture device or card. In addition,
MM2 does not do DVDs, so you'll need a third party DVD authoring program.
There are several...Roxio Creator, Nero Vision Express, Sonic MyDVD...they
all work...just select one the suits your budget/needs, and you'll be on
your way. Be aware that your finished product will not be DVD quality, as
your camcorder only captures at VHS quality, and you'll probably be doing
some editing. If you want DVD quality, it will cost you quite a bit more
for the hardware and software to get DVD quality results.

Bobby

 

[Guest]

Thanks for all your help. It uses 8mm cassette film. But when you say i need
an analog capture card will this involve me tinkering in the back of my
computer. I can only do things on the surface I'm not that technical.

 

[Guest]

Hi, Thanks for your reply. I don't mind if the quality is only the same as on
the camcorder as its just sentimental stuff really that i want to save in
another place so that if the VHS breaks or goes out of use completely i have
it somewhere else. i.e wedding and christenings.

 

[Cari \(MS-MVP\)]

It will involve you turning off the PC, opening the PC case, inserting the
card correctly, then turning it on again, starting XP and once it starts, XP
should ask for the CD that comes with the card to install the software.

If you are unsure, most places where you purchase the card can install it
for you.... (for a fee!)

Best Buy have their Geek Squad, Frys and CompUSA have a similar Technical
Support option.