Problem connecting Sony Betamax SL-2710 to computer?
 

Hey,

I just bought a SONY Betamax SL-2710 and received it in the mail. It seems to work fine, but when I connect it to my computer, like I connect my VCR, the computer doesn't see it.

I use a Dazzle connection and the program Pinnacle Studio 21, not the best connection/program, but it's been working well with the VCR's. When I open Pinnacle Studio 21, I will select Import and Video Composite, not Video SVideo because the Beta player doesn't have a port for that connection. With the VCR's, it works fine like that, but the program doesn't even see the Beta tape player.

Does it have to be connected another way?

Thanks for any help.

Sean

The program doesn't see the VCR, it sees a video signal, it doesn't care where that video signal is coming from, Did you try connecting the VCR directly to TV?

My computer doesn't have the same audio/video plugs in the back, that's why I've always used the dazzle connection. How else can I connect the Beta? It has the audio/video plugs in the back, the RF connections and one other plug that looks like the audio/video connections, but is labeled MPX.

My computer has all of the basic connections, minus an HDMI connection.

How can I directly connect the beta to my computer?

You can't connect the VCR directly to the computer unless you have a PCIe capture card on your computer, You connect the VCR to the dazzle using the color coded connections and the Dazzle to computer using a USB port. If you can't make a basic video cable connections send your tapes to a professional so you don't have to worry about it.

That's what I explained at the start. I use Dazzle and Pinnacle Studio 21 for all VCR, hi8, miniDVs, MicroMV,... the problem was connecting the new Betamax because it doesn't work exactly the same as VCRs, but I've got it connected and working great. It doesn't show a connection until it plays. When a VCR is connected or a camera, it shows the blue screen of the camera/VCR and then the video when it starts. The Betamax doesn't show anything until played.

That is a barely passable capture card, and really bad software. At least use VirtualDub.

Correct. And the issue is loss of signal.

This is lack of continuous video input signal, which is what a TBC is for.
What are you using for TBC?
You must use something. VCR > TBC > capture device/card

One of the few things were Pinnacle Studio is required. Ugh. The only reason we have it. :screwy:

Probably the way it is designed, not to output a video signal (to the Dazzle, in this case) until you hit Play.

Can you record/capture the video after the Betamax starts playing?

Yes and no.
And the Dazzle is the likely issue, not the deck.
Maybe designed that way, maybe not.
The real issue is lack of continuous (and quality) signal, ie not TBC in workflow chain.