video Tapes to VCD

[Kayenumb]

Dear video masters,

I do not know much about video cards. Currently, I have a Geforce2 MX400 and I would like to transfer some video tapes to VCD. This video card I have does not have video input function so do you recommend me replacing my current video card with a better card that has this function? If so, what do you recommend?

Or, is it possible to have some sort of 'addon' that would allow me to do the recording I want without replacing my current video card?

Thank you in advance

 

[TheOneBadass]

the USB Instant DVD is what you are looking for. you can transfer vhs and then turn them into either vcd's or dvd's. here's some product info http://www.adstech.com/products/USB_Instant_DVD/intro/usb700intro.asp?pid=USBAV-700

 

[anandfan]

you just missed a great deal on video capture cards. I think it was CompUSA that had some for $4.95 a week or two ago. Can't remember the brand name, but I'm told it is the same card included by Pinnacle with their Studio 8 Deluxe sw/hw combo. This is a card based on the btw848/878 chipset. I have the WinFast TV2000 Deluxe board (about $50) -- same chip. Does a pretty good job capturing VHS and other analog signals. I recommend it, and so do many others (check the newegg customer reviews). You'll also need some software. The best place to start looking for info about hardware and software is VCD/DVD Help. Good luck.

Edit: You can also capture analog video with some of DV camcorders. Some of the cameras have an analog input and will operate in "pass-thru" mode. That means they will digitize the analog video to DV format and out the firewire port. If you've been thinking about getting a DV camcorder or can borrow one, this is also a good way to go.