One of the things that I want to do in the near future is to turn my CPU into a video editing machine.

There are a few things I want to be able to do.


1) Take my existing VCR tapes and convert them to DVD. These are home-made videos taken with a camcorder (no, not that kind silly!).

Question: I do not currently have a camcorder of any kind. What do I need to be able to hook my VCR into my computer transfer the VCR tape to my hard drive. I've heard talk about a video capture card. Is this what I need? Any suggestions?

Note: I know I'll also need to upgrade my hard drive for more space (or add an additional HD, which is the way I'm leaning).

Question 2: Any recommendations on DVD burners? I know nothing about them.

Question 3: What else do I need?


2) I will eventually be getting a camcorder and will edit my home movies on the CPU as well, but that will probably be happening at a later date when I can afford it.

1) Yes a video capture card is what you need to save the video to your PC.

2) The only DVD burner I've used is a Sony DRU-500A. It has worked fine for me so far. You might want to check out this site: http://www.dvdrhelp.com/ They have a lot of info on what drives are compatible with what home DVD players.

3) You'll need some video editing software, but your DVD burner will probably come with that.

4) Most of this info will change when you buy your camcorder. A lot of cameras now are digital, and if you aren't buying for another year or so, you can bet they all will be digital then. No video capture card required for digital cameras!

5) I don't know when you plan to buy your DVD burner, but DVD burners now burn on single layer DVD discs. Dual-layer drives should be out next year. The drives will have basically double the storage capacity of drives today.