Encoding Time

[Kolslaw1]

Hello -

I am looking for an estimate of the time it will take to import/encode video into my computer.

I have a beta camera, s-vhs camera and I have a shooter I use who gives me video of dvd (vob files) but I am considering purchasing a dv cam. My question is how long will it take to import my video from the sources mentioned above?

Thank you,
Kolslaw

[JohnnyMalaria]

Importing from a DV cam occurs in real time.

Importing from a DVD containing VOB files occurs as fast as your computer can copy the files - assuming the DVD is in the PC's DVD drive. If it is in an external camcorder that records to DVD, then it will most likely be real time via FireWire or (maybe) USB.

That's just for the importing bit. It doesn't include any conversion that you may need to do. e.g., if you can't natively edit the VOB files, you'll need to convert them to a different format.

[Kolslaw1]

Thank you. Do you ever need convert VOB files. If so how do you do it? I have had mixed results doing so.

[JohnnyMalaria]

Thank you. Do you ever need convert VOB files. If so how do you do it? I have had mixed results doing so.

I'm strictly DV (!) so I can't offer an experience. But this forum has plenty of people who do. I'm sure someone else will be able to advise you.

[tinker]

If you want to just cut some parts out of VOB, there is a free tool called VobBlanker.
http://www.afterdawn.com/software/video_software/dvd_tools/vobblanker.cfm
If you want to do more, like cut, transitions, adjust audio or colour, than there is (not free) tool Mpeg Video Wizard or Mpeg Video Wizard DVD
http://www.womble.com/products/index.html
Both tools work wit VOB's, no need for conversion.

[thecoalman]

Just to add DV files from a cam have to be encoded to MPEG for use on a DVD, time varies according to your computer specs, what you have done to the video such as adding transitions or filters and the encoder you are using. A straight encode from DV to MPEG will take aboit 45minutes to an hour for one hour of video on a 3ghz P4 as an estimate.

Combining transfer and encode you can figure about 2 hours per hour of video right off the top.