Freeware conversion of miniDV to DVD...

[avz10]

I would like to get info on freeware programmes that one can use to convert miniDV to DVD(preferably freeware). I have a Panasonic NV GS 250 and a Firewire port. As far as I understand it, one needs the following:
1) a programme to capture
2) a programme to edit (I am using the Motion Studio from Panasonic for 1 and 2)
3) a programme to convert/encode to mpeg 2
4) a programme to write to DVD

Can’t one use one programme for all of these, and as I have said what are the freeware available? For me it is important to try to preserve the quality of the recording, I do not mind the size so much, since DVD discs are quite cheap.
Is any one aware of a good tutorial/step by step guide about the whole process?
I have Intervideo WinDVD Creator 2 on my computer, I have used that to convert VHS to DVD. Is this programme appropriate?

[edDV]

1) WinDV or DVIO
2) Free will cost you in learning time vs buying a good consumer program like Sony Vegas Movie Studio, Ulead Video Studio, etc.
See guides for VirtualDub and DV editing configurations.
3-4) Mpeg2 encoders and DVD authoring programs require license payment and thus aren't free.
Look at the TMPGEnc guides or buy a product like ULead DVD Movie Factory.
http://www.tmpgenc.net/

[avz10]

Thank you.
I have tried WinDV, but during capturing with firewire, it makes big digital "blotches". This has not happened during the capturing with the Panasonic Motion DV capturing. The editing in that programme looks OK, so for the time being Ithink I will continue that way, unless someone else convinces me otherwise.
I tried TMPGEnc, but it gives me an error message "Cant load P3Package". Any advice?
Another question, if I buy the TMPGEnc, do I still need anothe programme to write to the DVD.(My DVD writer is a Ben Q and I use Sonic Record now)
Thanks

[avz10]

Sorry, another question. Should I rather spend the $100 for ULead Movie Factory and will it take me through all the steps that I have mentioned above (capturing, editing, encoding, writing)

[Cobra]

Please start your own thread if you have a question. Thanks!

Cobra

[guns1inger]

I tried TMPGEnc, but it gives me an error message "Cant load P3Package". Any advice?

Yes, use the search function. This was asked and answered not long ago, and in the fact the solution is also in a sticky.

Free encoders - quenc, HCEnc
Free authoring - DV Author and either GUIforDVDAuthor, or DVDAuthorGUI.