how to copy protected vcrs and dvds to archive own collection?

Question

have a huge collection of older plus some new dvds.Have a samsung r130 dvd recorder and have not been able to archive, especially older vcr tapes which are now getting very worn and some not replaceable.

Answer 1

You need a little black box that removes the Macrovision encoding; it might be called a video stabilizer. The linked site has them, but you should be able to find them locally cheaper.

Answer 2

FIRST. What you want to do is alleged to be illegal, (I think the question is still open though.)

HOWEVER. First set up a computer with a LARGE hard drive, (movies take a LOT OF SPACE, MINIMUM 512 MB RAM, 1GB processor), and a version of XP, and a DVD burner (you could use some versions of linux with the proper programs, however I do not know of a connection box for Linux) .

Then get a connection box (various brands available) that will allow you to play your DVD, VCR, on your player and input to the Computer, ( and preferably back out to the VCR), instead of a TV. (I recommend USB2 or Firewire connection.) These USUALLY have an editing program that comes with them. ALSO get connecting cables (VCR to Box, and return.) FROM EXPERIENCE: do NOT hook up Input and Output cables to BOX from the VCR at the same time.

Play the DVD, VCR into the Computer and store on the Hard Drive. Edit as necessary. Record to DVD, or output back to VCR and record to tape, (or in your case DVD).

Figure on minimum of 5 1/2 hours for 2 hour movie; input, compile, output.
When done, SAVE original and watch the copy.
When HD runs short on space, delete some of movies you have copied so you have room for more.

There ARE other ways, but I know THIS works pretty good for VHS and DVD (however, you loose all the DVD extras this way). ALWAYS set to record at HIGHEST possible quality when inputting to computer.

For DVD's there are programs available that allow you to copy DVD's directly on the Computer if it has a DVD burner. (Dual Layer,Multi format Plextor drive recommended!) "Decoders" are usually NOT included for legal reasons, but can be downloaded several places for free!