[ale] OT converting old videos, cataloging dvds, storing forever

[Ron Frazier (ALE)]

Hi guys,

I wanted to share some cool info about ripping, cataloging, and storing 
video and see if you have any comments or experiences to share.

I got a burr under my saddle to try to capture and convert about 100 old 
video tapes, recordings of star trek, mission impossible, etc. from 10 - 
20 years ago to computer format to preserve them since the tapes tend to 
self destruct.  I got a video capture device called Honestech VHS to DVD 
5.0 Deluxe from Frys.  It connects to composite or svideo and stereo 
audio and inputs the data into the computer via usb, at up to DVD 
quality using up about 4 GB / hour of storage.  It can also burn to DVD 
but I haven't tried that yet.  It's kind of mind boggling how fast it 
uses storage space.  The device's drivers only support Windows, so I 
don't know if Linux would recognize it.  Anyway, it works fine in 
Windows, but the built in editing software is a bit lame.  So, I'm 
wondering if you know of any floss (preferably) cross platform (at 
least) video editing software (like Audacity is for audio) that I can 
use just to do basic import, cutting commercials, titling, and audio 
sync.  I don't need anything very fancy.  My main goal is just to get 
the video on something that's likely to last a while.

I also wanted to share a great way to track and catalog DVD's that 
you've purchased.  It's an android app called MyMovies (free - limited 
to 50 titles) and MyMovies Pro ($6 - unlimited).  It's ultra cool.  Just 
scan the bar code and it looks up the movie, adds it to your database, 
and imports cover art.  You can also change the sort order, enter some 
custom data, and generate some reports.  I really like the app.  Now, I 
can take my tablet with me when I go shopping and immediately find out 
if I have a certain title.

Finally, may have found the ultimate way to save your critical data 
permanently.  It's a technology called m-disc.  They use an INORGANIC 
stone like substrate in the dvd like disc to store data.  It requires a 
special writer, which you can get for under $ 50.  It can be read on any 
dvd+r or dvd+rw compatible reader.  And, GET THIS, it's supposed to last 
for 1000 years, and that's just because the polycarbonate laminate 
breaks down.  Discs are $3 ea for a 4.7 GB disc.  So, I'm definitely not 
going to store all my 800 hours of video on this, but special things, 
like my wedding video, maybe.  I don't currently own an m-disc writer, 
but I'm thinking of getting one just because it's too cool not to.  
Check out the following links.

http://millenniata.com/
http://millenniata.com/technology/
http://millenniata.com/m-disc/
http://www.frys.com/search?search_type=regular&sqxts=1&query_string=m-disc&submit.x=0&submit.y=0&cat=0
http://www.frys.com/product/6923077?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
http://www.frys.com/product/7094061?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG

Please let me know if you have any tips or experience relevant to these 
issues.

Sincerely,

Ron

-- 

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Ron Frazier
770-205-9422 (O)   Leave a message.
linuxdude AT techstarship.com