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How to Convert Super 8 Film to VHS Tape

With Super 8 film equipment hard to find these days, you can convert your library of old Super 8 movies into a more modern format. Many are still using VHS video recorders. VHS tape decks are an inexpensive way to archive old movies, but you will need to know how to record your Super 8 films using videotape technology. Using Video CineMate 20 telecine equipment is one technique.

Things You'll Need

  • CineMate 20 telecine
  • VHS video camera
  • VHS video tape
  • Tripod
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your CineMate 20 telecine unit on a table or surface that allows enough room to position your camera perpendicular to the condenser lens. The table should also be high enough for you to position the camera level with the projected image using an ordinary tripod.

    • 2

      Place your VHS video camera on a tripod and position the camera so that it is perfectly level with the projected image shown on the condenser lens. Your video camera will need a feature that allows you to make manual adjustment to the shutter speed. Set the shutter speed to 1/60 of a second. If you are recording in the European PAL format, the shutter speed should be 1/50 of a second.

    • 3

      Thread your film in the CineMate projector. Make sure the film is attached to the take-up reel. Flip the toggles in the rear of the unit to supply power to the motor and lamp, then turn the operation knob past the "Forward" position to “Lamp.” Wait for the film leader (if any) to pass and view the projected “aeriel” image on the condenser lens.

    • 4

      Once the image is viewable, zoom in all the way to focus your video camera lens on the image. Zoom out until the projected image on the condenser lens fills your viewfinder frame.

    • 5

      Insert a VHS tape into your VHS video camera.

    • 6

      Rewind the projector to the beginning of the film.

    • 7

      Press the record button on your video camera.

    • 8

      Play the film by again turning the knob to the "Lamp" position.

    • 9

      Stop recording on your video camera when the film is finished and rewind the film.

    • 10

      Remove the videotape from your camera and label it for future reference.

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