How to Play Mini DV Tapes in a VCR

Watch mini dv content on your vcr

Mini DV tapes store video images and sound onto a digital format. The tapes are small and digital so they are called "Mini DV" (DV = Digital Video). These are used in Mini DV camcorders. Once video is recorded onto a tape, it can be viewed in various ways. Since Mini DV is a digital format and most VCRs are analog, either a Mini DV tape deck is needed or the content on a Mini DV tape has to be converted to an analog format and recorded onto an analog VCR tape. With some patience and items you may already have, you can watch Mini DV tape content on your VCR.

Things You'll Need

• Mini DV camcorder
• A/V connecting cable
• VCR

Instructions

1. 

   Rewind your Mini DV tape

   Place the mini DV tape into your camcorder and put the settings on VCR (playback) mode. Rewind the tape to the beginning or to the part you want to watch on your VCR.

2. 

   Plug this end into camcorder

   Plug the A/V accessory cable into your camcorder. Most camcorders come with this. If you don't have one, look up your camcorder's model number and order from the manufacturer or other supplier. This cable has one end which fits into the camera. The other end will have three standard connectors. These are also called RCA jacks. One will be red, one white and one yellow.

3. 

   Plug these into VCR input jacks

   Plug the RCA cables into your VCR. On the back of your VCR there will be one jack labeled "video in" and two audio jacks. A right one which is red and a white one which is left. Plug the ends of your camcorders A/V cable into the corresponding jacks. You can simply match the colors of the connectors to the jacks.

4. 

   Send Mini DV signal to your VCR

   Put a videotape into your VCR and press the appropriate buttons on it to record. This usually means pressing the record button, or the record and play button together for older units. Press "Play" on your camcorder. The Mini DV tape should begin to record onto your VCR tape.

5. 

   Enjoy your digital video on a vcr

   Watch your video on a VCR. When the content you are recording is over, press the stop button on the VCR then rewind , play and watch it on your attached monitor or television.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure you have plugged the A/V accessory cable into the correct "inputs" on the back of your VCR.

• You may also plug the cables into your television instead of your VCR and watch directly.

• Each VCR may differ in operation. Read your user guide for more information.