How to Copy Video From a VCR to a DVD Using a DVD Recorder

Transform old video tapes into discs with a DVD recorder and VCR.

DVD recorders are equipped with standard 1/4-inch input jacks for hooking up audio-video equipment for copying other media, such as video tapes, onto DVD. The set up requires a composite AV cable with color-coded plugs to match the jacks for clear connections. Recording times depend on the length of the video tape to be copied onto a DVD.

Things You'll Need

• Composite AV cable
• Blank, recordable DVDs

Instructions

1. Connect the VCR to the DVD recorder by inserting the three plugs on the composite AV cable into the AV OUT or Playback jacks on the VCR and the AV IN or Record jacks on the DVD recorder. The yellow, white and red plugs on both ends of the cables match the jacks on the two components.

2. Press the "Open" button on the DVD recorder, insert a blank DVD and close the tray.

3. Insert a pre-recorded video tape in the VCR and rewind the tape to the beginning or to the desired portion of the tape you want to record.

4. Press the "Record" button on the DVD recorder and wait a few seconds for the machine to initialize the disc. The REC light will appear on the front panel.

5. Press the "Play" button on the VCR to start the tape.

6. Press "Stop" on the DVD recorder when finished, then wait for the machine to finalize the disc. This is an encoding process that enables the DVD to be played on other equipment besides the DVD recorder, such as computers and other DVD players.

Tips & Warnings

• Connect the AV cable between the VCR and DVD recorder before plugging the components into the electricity. This helps prevent a short-circuit.

• Many prerecorded video programs may by copy protected and cannot be dubbed. Making copies of copyrighted material is illegal.

References

• PC World: Copy Old Videos to DVD