How to Record VCR Tapes Onto a Computer

Back up your VCR tapes to your computer to digitally immortalize your video memories.

Video Home System (VHS) tapes have long since been replaced by the higher quality Digital Video Disks (DVD). But just because the VHS format is outdated doesn't mean the video memories stored on them have to die. By digitizing your VHS tapes and archiving them on your computer, you can help to ensure that your video content survives long after your VHS tapes have become unplayable.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with video-capture card
• VCR
• Compatible video cable

Instructions

1. Insert your tape in the VCR, then cue the tape up to the point where you'd like to begin capturing.

2. Connect your VCR to your computer's video-capture card with a compatible video cable (e.g. if your capture card supports RCA video, then you'll need to use and RCA cable).

3. Download and install a free copy of the Windows Live Movie Maker, if you don't already have the program.

4. Launch Windows Live Movie Maker, and then click on the Movie Maker tab--located next to the "Home" tab. Select the "Import from device" option from the drop-down menu that appears.

5. Select your capture card from the list of devices in the "Import Photos and Videos" menu that appears. Click the "Import" option.

6. Enter a name for your video file into the file name field, and then click next. Select the option to capture the "whole videotape," and then click "Start" to begin capturing your VHS tape. The captured file will be stored in your "My Videos" folder.

References

• Microsoft: Make a Movie in Four Simple Steps - Step 1 Get videos and photos onto your computer