How to copy a mini-DV to a DVD

People will learn how to copy the content of a mini-DV tape to a DVD disc.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Videocamera or digital playback deck
• DVD recorder

1. The easiest way to convert the content of a mini-DV tape to DVD is a direct transfer from the source machine (video camera) to a DVD recorder. The first step is to connect the two machines, using the connector cable that came with the video camera (if you can't locate the cable, you can buy one on line or possibly a specialty store like Radio Shack.
2. Step 1 assumes you have both a video camera and a DVD recorder. DVD recorders can be purchased for around $300-$500 and, like all other technology-driven equipment, the price consistently decreases.
3. Run the connector cable from the "A/V out" slot of your video camera to "A/V in" input for your DVD recorder. NOTE: A/V stands for Audio/Video. The "A/V in" for your DVD recorder will be one of three types: composite (three connectors: yellow, red, and white connector), I-EEE connector (also known as firewire), or S-video.
4. Follow the instructions for formatting a blank DVD and then insert the blank DVD into the DVD recorder. Before you can record, you will likely need to give the DVD a name and adjust the machine's settings. While tedious, this is a necessary step.
5. Rewind the source tape on your video camera. Hit RECORD on the DVD recorder and wait for the machine to begin recording (a few seconds). Then hit PLAY from your video camera.
6. When the mini-DV finishes, hit END RECORD (STOP RECORD, etc.) on the DVD Recorder. A message will flash onto the screen indicating the machine is writing the data to the disc.
7. When the writing is complete (usually less than a minute), you need to FINALIZE the disc. If you fail to do this, you will lose the entire transfer.

Tips & Warnings

• Blank DVDs come in several formats (DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD+RW, etc.). My experience tells me DVD-R is the most compatible with the standard DVD recorders.
• I am not typically brand-loyal; however the Verbatim brand DVDs seem to work the best.
• The most difficult parts of the copying are hooking up the cable and getting the DVD recorder to do what it is supposed to do. Thick manuals will accompany your product and may not be easy to plod through.
• Professional videographers (like myself) can copy mini-DVs, VHS tapes, or 8mm film to DVD quite easily and at very affordable rates. We can also produce customized labels and DVD cases (in case you want to give as a gift or archive the DVDs). In the short run, you will spend a lot less money by paying the copying fee to a videography company. Additional questions can be sent to my email address [e-mail]