VCR to Digital | National Video Centre

Converting VHS tapes to digital format involves several steps and some essential equipment. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process:

VCR (Video Cassette Recorder): To play the VHS tapes.
Digital Converter: A device that captures the video signal from the VCR and converts it to a digital format. Common types include:
- USB Video Capture Device: Connects the VCR to your computer via USB.
- DVD Recorder: Records the VHS content directly onto a DVD, which can then be ripped to a digital format on a computer.
Cables: Typically RCA (composite) cables or S-Video cables for connecting the VCR to the converter.
Computer with Capture Software: If using a USB video capture device, you’ll need software to record and save the video.

Set Up the Equipment:
- Connect the VCR to the digital converter using the appropriate cables (usually RCA or S-Video).
- If using a USB video capture device, connect it to your computer.
Install Necessary Software:
- Install the video capture software provided with your USB capture device. Some popular software options include OBS Studio, VLC Media Player, and software bundled with the capture device.
Prepare the VCR and Tape:
- Insert the VHS tape into the VCR and rewind it to the beginning.
Configure the Software:
- Open the capture software on your computer and configure it to receive the video signal from the capture device. This usually involves selecting the capture device as the video source.
Start the Conversion:
- Press play on the VCR to start the VHS tape.
- In the capture software, start recording to capture the video being played by the VCR.
Monitor the Recording:
- Keep an eye on the recording to ensure there are no interruptions or issues.
Stop the Recording:
- Once the VHS tape has finished playing, stop the recording in the capture software.
- Save the recorded video file to your computer.
Edit and Convert (Optional):
- Use video editing software to trim, enhance, or edit the video if necessary.
- Convert the file to your desired format (e.g., MP4, AVI) using video conversion software if needed.

Clean the VHS Tape Heads: Clean the VCR heads before starting the conversion to improve playback quality.
Use a Time Base Corrector (TBC): A TBC can help stabilize the video signal and reduce issues like jitter and color bleeding.
Adjust Tracking: If the video has horizontal lines or noise, adjust the tracking on the VCR to improve playback quality.

Equipment:

Steps:

Connect VCR to USB capture device using RCA cables.
Plug USB capture device into the computer.
Install and open OBS Studio.
Add a new “Video Capture Device” source in OBS and select the USB capture device.
Insert VHS tape, rewind, and press play on the VCR.
Click “Start Recording” in OBS to begin capturing.
Click “Stop Recording” when finished, and save the file.

By following these steps, you can successfully convert your VHS tapes to digital format and preserve your memories for the future.

National Video Centre can do the job of converting VCR to Digital for you.

Don’t delay, send your enquiry right now using the form below or phone 0437 822 357.