How to Transfer Movies from VHS to DVD

Most of us have shelves filled with precious memories stored on VHS tapes. Transferring these to DVD's is now a simple process. There are a couple of different ways to achieve this. Read below and determine what works best for you. Soon you can rest assured that your memories are protected for years. Read on to learn more.

Things You'll Need

• DVD-VHS combination recorder
• VHS tape to copy
• Recordable DVD
• VCR
• DVD player
• VHS taped movie
• Audio and visual cables

Instructions

Combination Units

1. Place the VHS tape you want to copy in the machine.

2. Insert a recordable DVD.

3. Follow your manufacturers instructions to copy the data to the DVD.

4. Label the DVD only after you've verified the data has copied over.

Using Separate VCR and DVD Machines

1. Hook up the VCR and DVD so that the DVD is recording the playing VHS tape. You may need to experiment to be sure you've got audio and visual both working properly. To do this, you'll need to know what specific types of cables to use for your specific machines.

2. Put in the VHS tape you want to copy.

3. Insert a recordable DVD in the player. Begin recording.

4. Play the movie in the VCR.

Copy With a Home Computer

1. Check the back of the computer to verify you have the proper hook ups. Look for the colored connections.

2. Hook your VCR up to the computer with the cables matching colors to colors.

3. Insert a DVD into the DVD burner on the computer.

4. Put the movie you want to copy into the VCR. Play the tape while burning the DVD at the same time.

Tips & Warnings

• This is the fastest and easiest way to accomplish this task. Combo units are widely available around $100.

• Make sure you review consumer reviews to insure you purchase a quality machine.

• This is the cheapest way to obtain your objective as most of us have all the components in place. Check your cables to your camcorder, as they will often work in both the VCR and DVD machines.

• There are also a wide range of professional videographers who will do this for you. Research them well before trusting them with important VHS tapes.