Is there a way I can hook up my 8mm Sony video camera to my computer? The camera is from about 1998.?

Question

The video camera doesn't have a digital output. It only has the basic RCA audio and video outputs. Is there any software (or a special cable) that will allow me to use a USB port (into my PC) from RCA outputs (on my camera). My objective is to put some home movies on sites like Youtube.

Is there another way of getting around it. I was thinking of transferring my 8mm home movies to DVD using my DVD recorder. Is there a way (or is there software) to transfer my DVD home movies using my PC to videos that are compatible with Youtube (such as MPEG for example).

Thanks for your time.

Answer 1

So I have been doing some research and found this http://www.compusa.com/applications/Sear... I have not tried it yet but based off the reviews it looks good.

I would suggest you use an S video cable instead of the yellow composite. I heard you get bettter quality with it. http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?... First make sure your camcorder has an s video slot.

hope this helps

Answer 2

Both the things you've suggested are feasible - you can get something like the Kworld DVD Maker or Pinnacle Dazzle which will connect to the camcorder's RCA and PC's USB.  The output will be MPEG-2 - watchable but not good for editing.  You should also be able to connect the RCA output to the equivalent input on the DVD recorder, and then copy the DVD to the PC.  This will also give you MPEG-2 video, but in .vob files.