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Video
Q.
Is there an adapter to play back
8mm videos with a VHS format VCR?
A..No,
for several reasons. 8mm tape is much narrower than VHS, the video and
audio signals are recorded differently and the two formats do not load
the tape into record/playback position the same way, either.
Q.
How can I view my 8mm tapes?
A.
You can connect your camcorder to your TV and use your camcorder as a
playback deck. Many camcorders include a wireless remote control for this
purpose.Secondly, you can connect the camcorder to a VHS-format VCR and
copy your video onto a VHS tape, maybe editing out unwanted segments in
the process. If you shoot a lot of 8mm video, you might consider purchasing
an 8mm VCR for playback and editing.
Q.
My camcorder tapes contain a lot of unwanted video. How can I get rid
of the unwanted scenes?
A.
This process is called editing and it improves the quality of all videos,
from a network TV broadcast to your childs birthday party. The simplest
type of editing, called crash editing, is done by playing a video with
one VCR or camcorder, then switching a second recording VCR to pause
or stop when unwanted footage is playing. Simple editing accessories
in the $100 to $200 range let you add fades to the edit points, switch
between input/output video sources and mix in narration and music. More
advanced editors use the remote control feature of home VCR1s and edit
control terminals found on many camcorders to simplify the editing process.
Q.
Is there a way to use my home
computer to edit video tapes?
A.
Yes, if your camcorder (or playback VCR) has a terminal for editing controllers,
such as Sony Control L or Panasonic 5-pin. The computer editing accessory
lets you mark edit points electronically, then go back and make your edited
copy, with the computer starting and stopping the camcorder and recording
deck automatically.
Q.
I need to buy a new battery for my camcorder. What do the mAh ratings
battery manufacturers use mean?
A.
MAh is a rating of a batterys capacity in milliamp-hours. The bigger this
number, the longer the battery will power your camcorder between charges.
A camcorder will usually use about 1200 to 1500 mAh per hour of operation.
Cold weather conditions, frequently turning the camcorder on and off,
and heavy use of the power zoom lens will all drain the battery faster.
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