minidv to dvd using computer

[clvlndta3]

Hi,
I have recently purchased a mini-dv camcorder. I am wanting to burn the contents of the mini-dv to a dvd. What program should I use to save the video to my hard drive? What format should I save it in? I'm not worried about editing it or anything, I just want to save it to my computer and then burn it to a dvd. Free software would be great if there are some out there. If you can point me to any articles or anything, that would help tremendously. I looked but couldn't find anything that showed the process step by step.
Thanks.

[Bodyslide]

I would use the software that came with the camcorder. Start off with the software, then if your having issues then look at other software after that. Also use the Firewire not the USB to transfer the data from the Camcorder to your PC.

Here's one guide from the left.
http://www.dvd-guides.com/content/view/33/59/

[Jim44]

Here's a post by daamon that gives a high-level view of the steps, with a couple of programs to try:
https://www.videohelp.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1380897#1380897

FWIW, here are the programs I use:
Transfer: WinDV
Edit (simple): VirtualDub
Encode: TMPGEnc Plus
Author: dvdauthorgui
Burn: DVD Decrypter

Also, when you say "burn to a dvd" I assume you mean you want to be able to watch/play the video on a stand-alone DVD player? That's what those steps above will do - the video you transfer from the camera will be AVI and you need to encode it to MPEG-2 for DVD-format.

You should be able to search and find just about all you'll need here. Then the best thing is to grab a few programs, some DVD/RW and try start trying 'em out. BTDT

Good luck,
Jim

[clvlndta3]

Jim,
Is there a free version of TMPGEnc Plus? Or something equivalent? Thank you for the tips and links, I will give them a try tonight when I get home. And you were correct, I am wanting to be able to play the dvds on any standard home dvd player and television.
Thanks again.

[Jim44]

TMPGEnc (non-Plus) is free and has a 30-day trial for the MPEG-2 encoder, IIRC. Have a look in the "Tools" section.

Jim