As tape-based camcorders seem to be going out of use, I want to back up my existing tapes to DVD to protect them for the future. What is the best future-proof format to use for this in Movie Edit Pro please?
Hi,
Mini DV produces a maximum file frame size of 720x480, so the highest quality video file you could use would be MPEG-2, at standard resolution. You could also use one of the container formats such as AVI or MPEG 4, I have done a test with a 9 second high resolution video which I exported at 720x480 resolution and the range in file sizes was significant.
AVI =149MB
MPEG-2= 7MB
MPEG-4=2MB
But, if it is just for archival purposes why not just copy the file to a DVD as a data file in the format that was originally imported from the camera?
You may also want to have a look at this link as a guide to different video file formats.
http://www.cyberlink.com/stat/product-tutorial/enu/dv-entertainment/video-format.jsp
Good Luck
I'd say there is no need to go beyond the native format of the tape which is IIRC mpeg2 720x576 pixels (PAL) which is what you would normally get if you import into MEP. If you have recorded in wide screen mode of 1440 x 576 it is in fact the same, just the the pixels are rectangular, not square.
This suggestion ignores any consideration of whether, say ten years from now, your DVD is going to be any better condition than a sensible stored tape.
Hi
To avoid confusion 720 * 480 is the NTSC resolution and 720*576 is the PAL resolution for mpeg2, so depending on your countries TV standard there is no point in backing up in a higher resolution.
DVD vs Correctly stored tape:-
Tape -
Not a good long term storage media as over time factors such as humidity and temperature can greatly affect the stability of the tape medium, also print through, magnetic fields and loss of magnetic polarisation in the tape coatings will reduce the viability of a tape long term.
DVD -
Humidity, temperature have less effect on the media, magnetc fields no effect and providing the discs are stored in a black case and kept out of light then the long term storage is better than tape. Use good quality discs.
It is also quicker to make duplicates and reduplicate when necessary. I have some backup DVD's which are over six years old and they are still good. I check them yearly and so far have had no problems
HTH
John