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How to Make Digital Copies & Convert your VHS Video Tapes

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Many homes these days still has stacks of VHS tapes hidden somewhere. These are memories preserved that are beautiful to playback and watch with loved ones. If you want play the videos on your computer, smart TV, or mobile devices, all you have to do is convert and make digital file copies of your VHS tapes.

Convert VHS Video Tapes to Digital File Format & Transfer to Computer

Our VHS tapes at home have sentimental value and preserved memories that are worth passing on to future generations. To make digital file copies of your VHS video tapes and transfer them to your Windows 10 PC or Mac computer, you have two options: one is to send it to companies who can digitize your tapes and the second way is to convert the videos yourself.

If you want to do the conversion and digitization yourself, then this guide is for you. There are tools and software that you need to prepare first.

VCR

VCR-Tools-Needed-to-Convert-VHS-Tapes-to-Digital-Format
Panasonic PV-D4744S Progressive Scan DVD / VCR Combo (View at Amazon)

To play your VHS tapes, you will need to use a Videocassette Recorder (VCR). It may seem impossible to find one these days but you can check out online marketplaces and stores to buy a second-hand VCR. You can also check out Amazon for even more options to get hold of this device. Another thing you can do is to ask your friends or neighbors if they have old but working VCR you can borrow.

USB-to-Composite Video Converter

DIGITNOW-USB-2.0-Video-Capture-Card-Device-Converter
DIGITNOW USB 2.0 Video Capture Card Device Converter (View at Amazon)

A USB-to-composite video converter is available online, if you don’t have one at home. There are different brands to choose from, ranging in prices and added features. Some USB-to-composite video converter you can use are Elgato Video Converter and DIGITNOW Video Capture Converter both available at Amazon right now.

Computer with USB Port

When you start converting your VHS tapes, make sure you have an available USB port that you can use on your desktop computer or laptop.

How to Make Digital Copies of your VHS Video Tapes

Convert-VHS-Video-Tapes-to-Digital-File-Format-and-Transfer-to-Computer
Credit: Gabriel Petry/Unsplash

The process of converting your VHS tapes is easy. Follow the steps below:

  • First, look for the software of your USB-to-composite video converter. Download it on the computer you will be using and launch it.
  • Connect your VCR to your computer using the USB-to-composite video converter.
  • Pop in your VHS tape in the VCR.
  • Rewind your tape to the start.
  • Now, press Play on the VCR while you press Record on your computer.
  • Wait for the process to finish.

After conversion, your videos will be in MP4 format. From there you can burn it to DVD or Blu-ray disc and even upload it to cloud storage or social media platforms.

Note that doing the conversion and digitization yourself may require you to spend money on the tools needed. But, it is worth it if you have many VHS tapes to convert.

Do you prefer to convert the VHS tapes yourself or have someone convert it for you? What are the challenges in doing it yourself? You can tell us your experience below so others will know which way to go.

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Aileen G. M.
Aileen G. M.
A technology writer with a degree in Business Administration majoring in Marketing. Aileen loves creating helpful but simple guides for troubleshooting and fixing complex issues on today's gadgets and services.

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