If you are using
a composite analogue video card then you can print your finished video
back to a domestic VCR using a composite to SCART lead (common in Europe)
or composite to composite (more common in the US). Just hook the leads
up to the video and audio out port on your video card. Some computers
require you to take the sound from the audio out mini jack port in which
case you need a mini jack to stereo phono connector.
If you are working
from DV via a Firewire port (as in the case of iMovie bundled with the
iMac) it is best to print the the project back to miniDV and then make
the VHS copies from the DV master. In Europe some miniDV cameras have
had their Firewire in ports disabled to comply with domestic importation
regulations. This is very annoying, so check before you buy a miniDV
camera that it has Firewire in and out.
Most retailers do
not carry video tape stock in anything less than 180 minute tapes. There
are however wholesalers who will provide smaller duration tapes. In
the South West of England APR
stock a huge range of tapes and Video-tec
also provide an extensive range of tapes and copying facilities.
It is now possible
to master your finished video down to DVD. At present the authoring
costs for this are high but the next generation of computers will provide
DVD authoring as well as playback. Visit the Apple
site if you are considering DVD authoring.
