


If you don’t have one, or the one you do still have is no longer functional, then you will find it difficult to obtain one in proper working order. The main drawback of having a large collection of old camcorder tapes is that they can only be viewed on an old camcorder. While you can still find old camcorders second-hand, you may find that a large portion of these are simply being sold for parts and are not in working order. Not only that, but the last camcorders to support the Hi8 and Digital8 video formats were discontinued in 2007. Just like camcorder tapes, camcorders themselves degrade over time.

By waiting to convert your camcorder tapes to digital, you run the risk of your tapes becoming unplayable, making it impossible to preserve the family memories stored on them. Even if they have been stored in optimal conditions (a cool and dry environment), these tapes naturally degrade over time causing issues such as video signal loss, shedding, and tape wear. While recording on these new 8mm tapes were more convenient than recording on VHS or Betacam, these revolutionary tape formats were never meant to last.Ĩmm camcorder tapes have a limited lifespan.

Because you could now hold this video camera in the palm of your hand, it made it much easier to capture videos in and outside of the home. When Sony introduced the Handycam video camera in 1985, 8mm camcorder tapes became wildly popular in the consumer market. Another reason why it is so important to preserve these aging video cassette tapes before it is too late! Why Convert Camcorder Tapes to Digital? Even with the correct equipment, you run the risk of damaging these old videotapes by attempting to play them in just an old camcorder you may have laying around your house.Ĭamcorder tapes become brittle and deteriorate over time, increasing the chance of tearing after sitting dormant for years. Unless you still have a working camcorder and the correct cables to connect it to your television, you’ll find it difficult to view these memories on your own. By converting camcorder tapes to digital, you can preserve these memories for future generations all while sharing and viewing them with friends and family. Wouldn’t it be great to relive these priceless family memories? The good news is that you can. Years of birthdays, family vacations, and weddings with no way to view them in today’s digital age. If you were recording any home videos in the ’80s or ’90s, chances are you have a collection of old camcorder tapes gathering dust somewhere in your home.
