Video Capture

"Video capture" is probably one of the most critical stages of the digital video process. It can be a time consuming chore as well. Video capture is the process of transferring video from a camcorder or a tape to your computer workstation. In order to fully understand the process, some further explanation of the two basic types of video is in order.

There are many different types of formats that video may be recorded in. When you hear the term "format" you may think of different types of tape formats like "VHS", "SVHS", "VHS-C", "8mm", "Hi-8", "DV", and "Mini-DV". There are even more than that! The "format" that we are discussing here is either one of the following:

"Analog video" is video that is captured on a traditional video recorder or camcorder. Traditional (called "linear") editing equipment is used for the editing process in producing videotapes. It must therefore be converted to a digital form before it may be used in "non-linear" editing.

"Digital Video" is video that is created on a computer or captured through the use of a "digital" video camcorder. It is stored in a different format on the tape, and digital video tapes can NOT be played on traditional video editing or playback decks. However, the decks have the capability of outputting composite video signals that can still be used for traditional editing by recording the information onto a regular video tape.

Sound confusing? It may, but it really isn't that complicated. Regardless of the type of recording equipment you are using, in order to be able to do editing on your computer, you must transfer the video onto a computer hard disk or similar storage device.

VIDEO CAPTURE UNITS

There are a number of different types of video capture units available. Most of the higher level units are "cards" that are mounted in a slot inside the computer. Some of these are extremely expensive. Recently there are some video cards that come with the computer when purchased, that are capable of capturing video. If you are considering the purchase of a computer, it may be helpful to consider purchasing a higher end video card that will allow you to capture video.

If you do not have video capture capabilities built into your computer, you may wish to consider an external device to attach to your computer that will allow you to capture video. These new devices are extremely easy to attach to the computer without even having to open up the case. The "DAZZLE" video capture unit is an external device that attaches to the parallel (printer) port on the computer. You will be using this device to convert your video footage into digital video files.

The "audio out" and "video out" jacks on the back of the camcorder are attached to the "video in" and "audio in" input connections on the "DAZZLE" device. A special software interface is used to preview the tape. The "capture button" is used to "record" the desired video segment. The segment is actually converted from analog format to digital format when the "capture button" is clicked on.

The DAZZLE software creates the segment as an MPEG digital file. The file can then be transferred to a Zip disk or Jaz cartridge. Then the files can be imported into the NLE (Non-Linear Editing) software. The files are then assembled into a finished video production.

Once the student has captured the video and converted it into digital files, the final production is assembled. In order to understand the process better, review the page that covers the editing process and related theory.