Convert Video to DVD with the HP DVD Movie Writer dc3000 (page 2)
Video to DVD Transfer Conclusion
The drive also comes with a small suite of software for when you are ready to edit a little video. ArcSoft ShowBiz 2 is fine introductory-level editing software that will allow you to do all of the basics: trim clips, arrange scenes, add transitions and create titles. Muvee AutoProducer DVD Edition is also included, which is one of the most fun applications around for creating music videos. You don't actually need to use any of this software to burn DVDs, but it's really fabulous that you have the option, which is something you distinctly don't have with a standalone living room DVD burner.
Although the AV connections were not as solid as we'd like to see and the manual is very (very) light, the dc3000 is a great way to convert your video tapes to DVD, even if you don't own a fast modern computer or a digital camcorder.
D. Eric Franks is Videomaker's Technical Editor.
TECH SPECS
Platform: PC
>Operating System: Windows 2000/XP
Processor: PIII 800MHz
RAM: 128MB
Hard Disk: 550MB
Interface: USB (USB 2.0 recommended)
Video Inputs: S-video, composite RCA
Audio Inputs: stereo RCA
Write Formats: DVD+R/RW, CD-R/RW
Write Speeds: 4x DVD+R, 2.4x DVD+RW
Included Software: HP Video Transfer Wizard, ArcSoft ShowBiz 2, Muvee AutoProducer, Veritas RecordNow, Cyberlink PowerDVD
Strengths
- MPEG-2 encoding/capture
- Simple DVD creation
- Optional editing/authoring
Weaknesses
- Very light manual
- AV connections not robust
SUMMARY
Probably the simplest and most complete DVD burning package available for casual home users, short of a standalone VCR replacement burner.
$400
Hewlett-Packard
3000 Hanover St
Palo Alto, CA 94304
(800) 752-0900
www.hp.com
