There are multiple ways to transfer VHS films onto DVD but for most of us who have home videos still sitting around on VHS tapes, we aren't really computer savvy enough to figure out how to use our computers to do it without calling up one of our younger relatives to come do it for us. If you want to save face with the younger generation, there is an alternative, extremely easy way to do this.
Step 1: Choose a DVD Recorder
To begin with, buy a DVD Recorder. There are a few different types that you can choose from as well as an extremely wide price range. The main decision you will be faced with, besides price, is if you want to deal with hooking the DVD Recorder up to your VCR or if you'd rather just buy one that included both of them. The easiest and cleanest route is definitely the all inclusive one.
Step 2: Buy Recordable DVD's
While you are at the store, you also want to make sure that you pick up Recordable DVD's. There are DVD-R's and DVD-RW's, the difference being that DVD-RW's allow you to do some minimal editing to the content, like inserting chapters. However, if you use DVD-RW's you can only play them in machines that support DVD-RW. If you're just planning on copying home movies, don't bother with the DVD-RW.
Step 3: Plug Your DVD Recorder In
When you get the DVD Recorder home, plug it into the tv and the wall. If you chose the DVD Recorder that did not include the VHS portion you must also plug the DVD recorder into your VCR. Most of today's appliances are color coded to make this process easy for you.
Step 4: Copy Your VHS
At this point you are ready to copy your VHS. Put your VHS into the machine and put a Recordable DVD into the player. If you have an all in one machine, you just have to press copy on the remote. If you do not, you have to work on your timing for starting the recording or you will have a DVD that has blank spots at the beginning or the end of what you've recorded.
Step 5: Show Off Your Technical Skills To Your Family
Now that you've managed to transfer your VHS tapes over to DVD, show them off to your friends and family! They don't need to know how simple of a process it really was, you don't have to worry about ruining your family memories by playing them too much and your younger relatives will be very impressed that you didn't have to call them to help you with the new technology.
