Operation Manual

Chapter 4

Capturing from DV Camcorders

Whether your DV is playing video or filming special moments, PowerDirector

captures it all in non real-time or in real-time.

Info: Unlike real-time capture, non real-time capture will utilize a buffer and is

recommended for users who desire high quality but do not possess adequate computing

power. Thus, non real-time capture will take longer to process the encoding of captured

content when utilizing a buffer. A display of the time remaining for capturing will be located

at the bottom right corner below the Preview Window.

With real-time capture, the actual content being encoded will coincide with the content that

is being played in the Preview Window and consume more CPU resources. This will not hold

true for non real-time capture.

And, with the astounding FireWire transfer protocol, you will capture crystal clear

digital video and audio from your DV camcorder and transfer data without any

quality loss whatsoever.

Capturing from a DV camcorder differs in two respects. As you might well be aware

of, DV camcorders come with two main modes. The first mode is to record live

content and is referred to as the Camera mode for most brands. The alternative

mode is the VCR mode (for most brands) where you may play back your previously

recorded content and navigate through the DV tape. The degree of controlling your

DV camcorder with PowerDirector differ in these two DV modes.

Note: Before starting PowerDirector, make sure all devices are installed properly with the

proper drivers, your DV camcorder is turned on, is in the correct mode, and the FireWire

cables are hooked up properly. Refer to the respective user's guide for more information.

Capturing from DV Camera Mode

When your DV camcorder is in the Camera mode, PowerDirector may only Record

into your hard drive, for it will simply capture what your DV camcorder is aimed at

or what it is recording. For other commands in the Camera mode, you will have to

rely on your DV camcorder’s controls.

1 Start PowerDirector. Click the Capture Mode located on the Modes Wheel.

2 Click the DV icon. If you’re DV camcorder is hooked up properly along

with the FireWire cables, turned on, and in the Camera mode (this will depend