VHS to digital?

[calvin]

Does anyone know of any software program/device which will allow me to convert or transfer VHS images to files which I can store on my laptop? I've seen the VHS to DVD recorders, but I was wondering if there was anything else out there. Or, would be easier to just go buy a digital camcorder?

Thanks for any info.

 

[5-90]

You want a video capture setup (a/k/a "vidcap.")

You can find vidcaps that are internal cards (like the ATI All-In-Wonder AGP card and successors) or that are external devices (which usually hook up via USP or IEEE1394/FireWire.) Either way, a good device will accept component video (RCA) inputs or S-Video (looks kinda like a PS/2 plug.)

If you really want to go nuts, some vidcaps also have TV/cable tuners inbuilt, so you can watch or capture TV directly into your computer...

Check your local computer shop for ideas, and then pillage around online starting from there. I would imagine you could do rather well for $200 or less, with a little luck...

5-90

 

[GSequoia]

If you're thinking about getting a digital video camera anyway (good choice, especially if you plan on doing a lot of future projects on the PC) I would just get that. Most (if not all) digital camocorders do have a video in port where you can play the original material in a VCR, have that wired into the camcorder, record it onto the MiniDV tape, then go over to the PC.

Or, alternatively, you can have a live feed passing through the camcorder then into the PC's video capture software.

Basically, I think that's a good solution, but only if you're already prepared for the cost..

Sequoia

 

[KY Chris]

Check out Dazzle DVC at www.dazzle.com

 

[Beezil]

what about digital skillet?

 

[macgyvr]

does that???

does that work better than the analog rhombus i've been using?

 

[Beezil]

just like an indiana boy.

its all about cellular lupis these days

 

[macgyvr]

got rope?

mac 'inbred hillbillie' gyvr

 

[calvin]

Thanks for everyone's suggestions. I'll start shopping around today.