What do I need to transfer video from an analog camcorder to a computer?

[MikeD]

I am wanting to do some video editing and I dont have a DV camcorder. My camcorder uses the VHS-C tapes. I know I probably need an IEEE 1394 firewire card. Is that it or am I way off? What type of cables do I need to connect? Is it even possibe with an analog camcorder. I also want to take and put it back on a tape to watch on a VCR. I am familiar with the system requirements (i wish i coulda got a 64mg GTS for $120 ). Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Also what software to use? Any freeware?

 

[aic]

http://www.videoguys.com/system.htm

 

[Lord Evermore]

Your video card isn't going to help the process at all, as it's not 3D imaging being done. It's dependent on CPU speed and hard drive speed.

Firewire would only be something you'd need with a DV camera, as they usually have firewire output, your camera most likely does not.

If your camera has RCA or coax output, then you just need a video capture card like the Hauppage WinTV+FM, ATI TV Wonder, or VoodooTV (there are other brands, I just can't think of them), or an external device like one of the Dazzle's or I think Iomega made something like it, can't recall the name.

For outputting it back to VCR, the Dazzle devices sometimes have that capability, but to get both functions you're going to have to buy a somewhat more expensive device than for just recording video.

There is some free software available for basic video editing, and the device you buy will certainly have at least 'lite' versions of the more popular expensive software.