How to Move Video Files From My DVR
Now that you've nearly filled up your DVR's hard drive with hundreds of your favorite TV shows and movies, you don't have to lose those recordings just because the DVR is almost out of space. Before you start deleting, consider backing up your DVR recordings to another format.
Unless your DVR unit has a built-in DVD recorder, the fastest and simplest method is to hook up a VCR or stand-alone DVD recorder to the DVR. This allows for quick and easy transfer of your recorded shows.
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Things You'll Need
- Stand-alone DVD recorder or VCR
- Composite RCA or S-video cables
- Blank recordable DVDs or VHS tapes
Instructions
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1
Use composite RCA or S-Video cables to connect your VCR or DVD recorder to the DVR. The type of cables you use can be based on personal preference, or may be dictated by the types of inputs/outputs both machines support. Connect the cables from the DVR's video/audio outputs to the video/audio inputs on the VCR or DVD recorder.
If you need help hooking this up, see video tutorials in References section. Consult your user's manual for diagrams and instructions for more complex custom connections.
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2
Insert a blank VHS tape or recordable DVD disc into your external recorder. If using VHS tape, make sure it is not write-protected first. If using a DVD, be certain to format the disc before recording.
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3
Select your desired recording speed. For basic archiving, a slow speed will be fine. For those important shows, use the highest quality setting possible. Check the user manual for your specific VCR or DVD recorder to find out the various speed settings and how much recordable time each setting allows.
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4
Access the library of recorded shows on your DVR and select the program you want to transfer. Begin playback, then rewind five seconds from the point where the show begins and press "Pause."
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Press "Record" on your VCR or DVD recorder (or "Rec/Pause"). This puts the external recorder in pause mode, ready to record.
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Un-pause your DVR and count backwards five seconds, then un-pause your VCR or DVD recorder. This ensures a sharp, clean dub without missing a moment of the show. Use this same method to edit out commercials in real time as you go.
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7
Press "Stop" on the VCR or DVD recorder when you are done recording, then stop program playback on the DVR.
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8
Repeat steps 3-7 to add additional programs to the VHS tape or DVD disc as desired.
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Tips & Warnings
Alternatively, you may transfer shows from DVR to your computer. However, be advised that this method requires additional hardware (such as a FireWire cable or a USB 2.0 video capture device), video editing software, and some technical know-how. It is also more time-consuming than simply dubbing from DVR to a stand-alone VCR or DVD recorder.
Some DVR users have difficulty transferring recorded content to DVD. This is due to copy protection technology which prevents digital-to-digital recording. Some set-top DVRs (such as the Motorola DCT6208/6412) do not allow for digital copying at all. For this reason, your only option may be to sacrifice digital quality and use a VCR to transfer shows using the DVR's analog outputs.
If you are using an external DVD recorder, don't forget to finalize the disc when the recording is complete. Unfinalized discs will not play back in standard DVD players.
Unauthorized distribution, copying or sale of copyrighted material is prohibited by law.
References
Resources
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