How to Use an HDV Camera for Skype
When face-to-face contact isn't possible, Skype and a webcam is the next best thing. If you don't have a webcam, save your money – it's easy to use your HDV camera in its place.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- HDV camera
- USB video-capture device
- Camera-to-TV connecting cables
- Debut Video Recording Software 1.42 or later version
Instructions
-
-
1
Connect the video cable plug on the USB video-capture device to the video input on the camera cable. Video cable plugs and inputs are usually color-coded yellow.
-
2
Plug the camera cable into the camera.
-
-
3
Plug the USB video-capture device into an open USB port on your computer.
-
4
Download "Debut Video Recording Software 1.42" or a later version and install the application on your computer.
-
5
Launch the software.
-
6
Click "Device" from the toolbar menu and then go to Step 7. If the software doesn't recognize your HDV camera, click "Options." Click the "Video Capture Device" arrow and select your camera from the list. Confirm that the “Format” and “Device” settings are correct or make changes, if needed. Click "OK" to continue.
-
7
Click the "Skype" icon on your computer's taskbar and select "Open Skype."
-
8
Right-click the person you want to call under "Contacts."
-
9
Navigate to "Share Your Screen" and select "Share Selection."
-
10
Use your mouse and drag the black box down to the inside of the video-capture software's display area.
-
11
Resize the black box to fit within the display area.
-
12
Click on the "Start Screen Sharing" box in the upper left corner of the video display area.
-
13
Click "OK" in the Screen Sharing dialogue box. A "Starting Video" message will appear.
-
14
Wait until the person you are calling picks up. The "Screen Sharing Active" message confirms the connection.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Because prices vary widely, compare the cost of USB video-capture devices from at least three different sources before selecting one.
