converting VHS to DVD

[mustbeburt]

OK... I've been considering converting all of my family's old home movies from VHS to DVD. However, I'm not sure where to start. Currently, I'm looking for a DVD burner, so I'll have one soon. I guess my questions are: 1.please suggest software that would work WONDERFUL for this project. 2.i do not have a digital camcorder. Is there a way to hook up my VCR directly to my computer? If so, How?

Any help would be OUTSTANDING! I'm really excited about getting this project underway. Thanks!

[degsy]

Having just read a review of Roxio myDVD it sounds perfect for you.

It can automatically convert VHS to DVD although it does have advanced options for authouring your own movies.

or one of the most popuplar is Pinnacle Studio.
Currently I use an older version of Ulead Video Studio.


There are different types of input devices.
I have an ATI All-In-Wonder card which has a breakout box with audio/video connections.

I use a SCART to Composite lead to connact my VCR to the breakout box.

Alot of graphics cards now come with Video In options.


You can also get USB video devices.



- Pinnacle Software and USB Capture devices
http://www.pinnaclesys.com/

- Roxio myDVD
http://www.roxio.com/en/products/mydvd/index.jhtml;jsessionid=LJ2EEYYFZHTA1LAQAMHBVQVMCAC AYIV0

- Ulead
http://www.ulead.com/

- Hauppauge USB Capture
http://www.hauppauge.com/

[mustbeburt]

Degs.

Thank you for the quick response. It's very much appreciated. I will look research everything you suggested. However, I am definitely a complete novice, and I was a bit confused by some of the technical terms you were using.

I'm not sure what you mean by "I use a SCART to Composite lead to connact my VCR to the breakout box." What is SCART?... and what does it mean to composite lead? I know these questions probably sound foolish, but like I said, I'm total beginner.

Also, you suggested that a USB device may be easier. Is there any reason I shouldn't go the route of a USB device?

Thank you so much.

[degsy]

SCART connector (http://images.google.co.uk/images?q=scart&hl=en)
Composite (RCA/Phono) (http://www.dvcam.biz/Images/Dossiers/numeriser%20analogique/cablecomposite.jpg)
SCART to Composite (http://www.hifix.co.uk/graphics/pics/medium/14870.jpg)

If you have USB2 then you shouldn't have many problems.
With a Dedicated Graphics Capture Card you may get faster speeds.

[mustbeburt]

So what you're saying is, only go the USB route if I have USB 2. Could you tell me how to check if I have USB 2 or not, because I really don't know if I do.

Thanks!

[degsy]

Check your PC specs.

You can purchase USB2 PCI cards and they are not too expensive.