Dead VCR

[swestrup]

Today, due to some recent kernel upgrade making the attempt possible, I continued work on my many-times-delayed project to be able to digitize old VHS tapes. After hours of pouring over obscure log messages and googling for fixes, I've finally gotten what appears to be a working video capture card.

I can't tell for sure though, since when I went to try to play a tape to see if I got a usable signal, I discovered that the last working VHS machine in the house has given up the ghost. I don't suppose anyone has an old (WORKING!) VHS player laying around that they don't use any more?

All I need is a machine that will let me digitize some old irreplaceable tapes, after which I won't even need it any more.

Once THAT project is finished, I'll be onto the project of digitizing some old irreplaceable reel-to-reel tapes.

Comments

[joenotcharles.livejournal.com]

I believe there's a VCR in our garage, but I don't know if it works.

[hendrikboom.livejournal.com]

I have a few VHS machines, in varying states of function, and I'm trying not to overuse them so they stay alive. But it's possible that one of them is OK and it's the TV at fault. Another has a tendency to make strange noises, and crumple the tape a bit. I'm planning to have it repaired.

But what I also have is a machine that copies VHS tapes to DVD. Could that be useful? Come over and try it sometime.

[swestrup]

If I don't get myself a working VHS machine, (and subsequently get my capture card working) I'll certainly take you up on the offer of a VHS to DVD converter.

Right now though, I'd far rather get my capture card configured and working, as it would not only allow me to rip VHS tapes, but record live TV.