How to Dub a Camcorder Recording to DVD

Do you have great video footage stuck on your camcorder? Video footage isn’t much good if you can’t watch it. In order to watch your productions you first have to dub the camcorder recording onto a DVD. Although the process may seem highly technical, after doing it a couple of times you will soon find yourself producing box-office hits in no time at all.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• computer
• camcorder
• blank DVD

1. Start by connecting the camcorder to your computer using a USB cable. Insert one end into the camcorder’s USB portal (usually a small square opening) and the other into your computer’s USB portal (usually a narrow rectangle located on the front of the tower or side of a laptop).
   

2. Once connected, turn the camcorder on. Your computer’s DVD rewrite program should automatically prompt. If not, locate it in your Programs file and double click to select. If your computer does not have a DVD rewrite program or drive, you will have to purchase one. Most camcorders now come with the needed rewrite software and most computers now have a built in DVD rewrite drive (usually labeled “DVD Rom”).

3. The program will ask you to select the recording you wish to copy into the reading drive. On the pull-down menu, select “camcorder.” This will download the video recording from your camcorder and onto the computer program.

4. Next you will be asked to select the device you wish to have the recording dubbed onto. Select “blank DVD.” This tells the computer that you want it to send the recording from the camcorder directly onto the DVD and not store it on the computer’s hard drive.

5. Open the DVD-Rom drive and insert your blank DVD. Once properly placed, close the DVD-Rom drive’s tray.

6. The program will next ask whether you wish to copy the recording directly to the DVD. Select “write directly to disc.”

7. Before the recording is transferred you will be asked to create a name for the DVD. Type in the name and select OK.

8. The final step is to select “Burn.” This will cause your computer to transfer the recording from your camera and onto the DVD. When the process is complete, the DVD-Rom drive will open automatically. Remove your personal DVD and enjoy.

Tips & Warnings

• If you plan to create more than one copy of your DVD, select “Import to P.C., then Write to Disc.” This saves the recording on your computer and will save you the hassle of continually downloading the recording from the camcorder.
• Before you start dubbing your DVD, make sure the blank DVD has enough memory space.
• Instead of saving old recordings on your computer or camcorder, use DVDs as a storage system. This will save memory space on both your computer and camcorder.
• Do not connect the camcorder to the computer while the camcorder is on. Always connect the two devices first and then turn the camcorder on. This may prevent a power surge that could harm your camcorder.