Capture Devices

• You can purchase some capture devices at electronics retailers such as Best Buy, but for the best price and selection, shop online. Choose a capture device with multiple input options. Inputs such as RCA composite video and S video are good to have. These will range in price from $50 to more than $100.
  
  Some limited transfers can be accomplished with the low-end capture cables, which sell for around $30, but they may not be compatible with Vista or 7. Make sure the device comes with its own software and is compatible with your operating system. These specifications should be listed on the manufacturer's website.
  
  

Setting Up the Hardware

• Install the software that came with your capture device. Typically, this will be a CD-ROM or DVD. Insert the disk and follow the on screen prompts to install the software. Once it's installed, connect the capture device to the computer with the provided USB cable. Just plug it into any available USB port.
  
  Connect the camera to the capture device with a composite video cable. This is the cable that looks like a mini headphone jack at the camera end and separates into three colored RCA cables at the other end. The cable ends should be white, red and yellow. Plug them into the corresponding ports on the device.
  
  Make sure the camcorder is set to playback mode and the tape you wish to capture is in place and rewound. Start the capture software and follow the on screen directions to record the tape into the computer's hard drive. Make a note of where the file is saved.
  
  

Edit and Burn the Disc

• Open Movie Maker. Go to "Start," select "All Programs," select "Windows Movie Maker." Once Movie Maker opens go to "File" and select "Import Media Items." Navigate to the folder with your newly captured video and select the file. It will open in your project media window. Drag and drop the file into the timeline (film strip section at bottom of screen). You can now edit the video by cutting, adding effects or music and creating titles.
  
  Once you're satisfied, go to "File" select "Publish Movie." Select "DVD." Your file will open in Windows DVD Maker. Edit the file to add custom menus. When you're satisfied, press the "Preview" button to test your files. Select "Burn" when you're ready. Put in a blank DVD and follow the directions to burn your movie to DVD.