WinDV

WinDV is a lightweight application that can be used to capture and transfer video material from a DV device to your computer.

The transferred content is encoded in AVI format and the application also allows you to record it into a DV device using FireWire. WinDV is capable of recognizing timestamps and enables you to save videos from the tape in single files. The AVI parts can then be rejoined using the the tool at hand and even allows you to preview the video content while the application is running.

WinDV displays a user-friendly interface that makes it a cinch to set-up and operate. It’s split into two sections that allow you to capture from the DV device or record to it. In order to capture or record, you need to select the source and destination for the files.

The VCR is automatically detected by the application but in case it does not appear, you can manually select it. If you just need to transfer the capture to your computer, then all you need to do is click the ‘Capture’ button. That’s all there is to it. It’s an efficient process that is treated by the application in a straightforward manner.

WinDV is able to transfer type-1 and type-2 material and you can choose which it should capture. The application also provides a discontinuity threshold, which you can set, and once it’s exceeded, the application switches to the next capture. Moreover, you are able to set the maximum frame limit for the AVI file, as well as the format for the date and time. When recording to the DV device, you only get to choose the leader and append AVI files.

In closing, despite it’s surprisingly small size, WinDV is a sturdy application that can get the job done with minimum effort on your part.