NTSC VHS cap got chopped off

[newbie]

Hello all,
I'm trying to capture NTSC VHS and got chopped off no matter which application I'm capturing it with (ie virtualdub, flyds, etc).

Basically, it's like the video is pushed up so top of the video is displayed at the bottom of the screen. In effect, the screen is splitted into two with the bottom showing the top of the video and the top screen is showing the rest of the video.

I'm sure some of you will know what I mean here. How do I configure it so the whole video is displayed/capture in full with Virtualdub? I'd tried with all different resolutions but couldn't get the full video (in one piece). Is it because of the capture card? BTW I'm using Swann analog capture card (don't know if any of you know about this card).

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[ironwood321]

Let me guess.
You are trying to play an NTSC tape in a dual standard PAL 60 or NTSC 4.43 VCR in the UK?

It can't be done unless you uses true NTSC vcr or set the video so it does not output 4.43.

Or you can use an expensive standard converter

[newbie]

ironwood,
Spot on my friend. Yes, I'm capturing a NTSC VHS on a dual system VCR. I don't know if there is a different between true NTSC VCRs and dual system VCRs (we call them multi-system VCRs in Australia) but I'm having a hard time here.

So what you're saying is it's not possible to capture with a normal multi-system VCR by itself? Hmmm looks like I'll have to give it up then ... Thanks my friend.

[lpn1160]

If you've got friends in the States, vcr's cost only $59 US nowadays, plus shipping to Australia, see what it would cost, if it's that important to you.
Don't forget the elec converter. You only need hook-up the vcr to the pc, (NO TV REQUIRED)
good-luck

[newbie]

lpn,
Thanks for the suggestion. I'll look for one in Australia (multi-system again) but this time with an option to set the output to 4.43 as advised by our friend up there.

Thanks all...

[ironwood321]

Hi,
Some of the more fancy Vcrs ie. the ones which are all singing and dancing and could brew a cup of tea and make a slice of toast if given half a chance. Have a switch either physically on the unit or in the "on screen menu" which allows you to switch between NTSC (M) 3.38 and NTSC 4.43 or PAL 60. If you have this option select the true NTSC option. NTSC3.38 or NTSC (M) and set you capture device to NTSC 640 x 480 or 720x480 29.97fps.

Standard converters are a little expensive around the £300 mark for the cheapest but it could be cheaper to beg, borrow, import, hire, loan a true NTSC vcr.

Or if you have contacts in a college or university with a well funded video department or video(film) degree you might be able to enlist there services to convert your tape to a suitable format.