Old tape formats, such as VHS, that are no longer supported by modern cameras are often transferred via capture decks.
Many independent filmmakers capture their footage by connecting the camera to the computer. However, most professional post-production houses do not. Capturing from the camera increases the wear on the read heads, ties up the camera during video transfer and may require the editor to adjust the capture settings to match each camera. An alternative way to transfer video is by using a capture deck. These are tape readers that are designed to transfer analog footage to the computer as a digital file.
Instructions
1. Connect your capture deck to the computer. Usually you will connect via a FireWire cable, but each deck is unique. Check the back of your deck to determine what ports are available to you.
2. Install the deck, if necessary. Some computers may allow you to "plug-and-play," meaning that the computer will automatically recognize the deck without you needing to manually install it. Other computers will prompt you to install the hardware. If this is the case, follow the computer prompts to install the deck.
3. Turn your deck on.
4. Insert your tape into the deck. Do not force the tape in -- this can damage the tape and the deck. Push firmly, but gently, until the deck accepts the tape.
5. Make sure your deck is set to accept remote operation. Often there is a switch on the deck that can be changed from "Local" to "Remote."
6. Open your video editor, and initialize your capture tool.
7. From the drop-down box that lists the capture devices, choose your deck, if necessary. Some video editors may not provide this option and will configure automatically.
8. Manually adjust your capture settings if needed, just as if you were capturing from your camera.
9. Using the navigation tools in the capture window, navigate to a point slightly before the beginning of the clip you wish to capture. Never begin the capture on the first frame of your clip -- there is often a moment's delay between the time your deck begins reading the tape and the time your software begins capturing.
10. Press the "Stop" button to end capture, or wait until the deck stops reading at the end of the tape. Your footage will now appear as a digital file in your computer.
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