Viewfinder: VHS: A Successful Format
The resilient videotape format persists beyond expectations.
Japanese product planners estimate that a consumer electronic product will last eight years. VHS tape, however, has mocked these modern marketing projections. It was developed in Japan by JVC in 1976 and has been the predominant consumer videotape format for over 20 years. Currently, over 80% of American homes have a VHS VCR. It is almost amazing that VHS has lasted this long. There are several reasons for its popularity and I believe they hold the secret to its continued dominance of the market.
The reason that VHS has lasted 22 years is that it has a huge installed base of very inexpensive hardware and software. I have seen VHS VCRs for as little as $90. The reason for this is that there is an abundance of VHS manufacturing capacity. There are hundreds of factories that pump out VHS blank tape an…
To View This Article
Start Your Free Trial Plus Membership
Why Become a Plus Member?
As a Plus Member, you'll enjoy:
- Exclusive access to 1,000s of articles, tips, and videos
- Unlimited access to Videomaker Tips & Tricks video series
- Special contests and monthly drawings
- Members only eLetters
- Early online access to the current issue of Videomaker Magazine
- Members only discounts on Videomaker merchandise and more
- Priority status at Videomaker events
- The Expert Hotline: direct email access to our editors. Get answers to questions about any video subject
Comments
You must be logged in to comment. Click here to login
Related Content
Web Video Compression and Codecs (VOD)
An AVCHD Update
Video Media Archiving
Coming of Age... Videotape Decks Enter Their Golden Years
Sony PMW-EX1 XDCAM Camcorder Review
JVC GZ-HD3 Everio Hard Drive and Memory Card Hybrid Camcorder Review
Blank Media Buyers' Guide
Hitachi DZHS300A Hybrid HDD/DVD Review
Latest Videos
How to Organize a Shoot
-
How to Cast a Video Production
Here we show you how to bring your characters to life by casting the best talent you can for your production. We show you where to look for actors, and walk you … -
How to Break Down a Script
In this segment learn how to discover the story and the characters of your next production. -
How to Get Rid of Unwanted Objects in Footage
In this training video we look at how to use object removal techniques such as scaling and cropping, chroma keying, or motion tracking.
Video Forums
-
Superhero Themed Series - Test Footage
Feb 12
-
3 minute short - I Need Green Screen Tips?
Feb 12
-
Introduce Yourself
Feb 12
-
Help me choose a mic.
Feb 12
-
Charge for travel?
Feb 12
-
best quality DVD video?
Feb 12
-
Speech editing
Feb 12
-
Has anyone used a sanyo A77 or Canon 7d with Premier Pro Cs5?
Feb 12
-
Seeking thoughts on the AG-HVX200A Camera
Feb 12
-
Best camcorder less than $2K
Feb 12
Video News Blog
-
Back to the Future 4? Do We Want to go Back with a Sequel?
Feb 10
-
Weird Weddings Challenge Even Pro Videographers
Feb 9
-
Cut Video with the Basic Editing Webinar, Feb. 22
Feb 9
-
DSLRs' Audio Limitations: Azden's Newest Mixer May Be the Ticket
Feb 8
-
Enter the D800 - Nikon DSLR
Feb 7
-
We're Living in a Golden Age of Video Production
Feb 6
-
Videomaker Workshops for February 24-26
Feb 3
-
Editing Avid on an iPad - Imagine the Possibilities!
Feb 3
-
Webinar Wednesday Presents: The Art of Titles and Graphics
Feb 2
-
Four Fair Use Factors for Video
Feb 2
Connect with Videomaker
Videomaker eNews
Videomaker eNews contains industry news and informative articles about video-related products, tips & techniques, special offers, events information and exclusive discounts. And now, sign up to receive Videomaker eNews and download Editing Dirty Little Tricks free! Learn the Band-Aid-type fix-it solutions the pros use.
