VHS videotapes produced for retail such as movies and TV shows are often encrypted or copy-protected so if a copy is made, then the quality will not be as good as the original. Converting encrypted VHS tapes to DVD can be a challenge for those who aren't tech-savvy, but the most confusing part of the process is connecting the devices involved in the proper way. Use a VHS-to-DVD video capture device, including a digital video stabilizer to transfer the VHS video to a computer, then burn the digital file to a DVD-R or DVD-RW using the computer's DVD burner.

Connect the Devices

Connect a composite cable or S-Video cable between the video output on the VCR and the video input on the digital video stabilizer device. Connect another composite cable or S-Video cable between the video output of the digital video stabilizer device and the video input of the VHS-to-DVD video capture device. Connect the audio outputs of the VCR to the audio outputs of the VHS-to-DVD video capture device. Connect the USB plug of the VHS-to-DVD video capture device to the computer. Turn on the computer and run the software of the VHS-to-DVD video capture device. Different brands of VHS-to-DVD video capture device may require different steps to install their software, but they each include setup wizards with directions and menus that are easy to understand and follow.

Record and Burn the Video

Insert the VHS video into the VCR and press "Play." The video image appears in a preview window on the computer screen. Plug in and turn on the digital video stabilizer. Press the button on the VHS-to-DVD video capture device to record the VHS video onto the computer's hard drive in real time as a digital file. When the software finishes recording the VHS video, insert a DVD-R or DVD-RW into the computer's DVD burner. In the preview window on the screen, select the option to burn the digital file to the DVD-R or DVD-RW. Depending on the brand of VHS-to-DVD video capture device, there is an option called "Plug and Burn" used to create menus, chapters and other add-ons. The picture quality on the VHS tape will be the same on the DVD.

Source:

ClearPix Media: Digital Video Stabilizer

Top Video Pro: Transfer VHS to DVD

Sign Video: How to Convert VHS to DVD: Bob Hudson