Videotapes

Videotapes are a way to recorded images in sound in a linear manner onto magnetic tape. There are three places where videotapes are used. One is in a video tape recorder. Another is used in a video cassette recorder, which is the most common. And, the third is a video camera. The video camera is used to record images onto that magnetic tape, and many of the video cameras that were purchased by the public were somewhat hand held. These videotapes were not commercialized until 1975 a few years after Sony started introducing prototypes for Broadcast Video U-Matic. Because of the technology that revolved around the U-matic, Sony introduced Betamax in 1975. One year later, JVC introduced their VHS in 1976 and started what is known as the “videotape format war.” The winner ended up being VHS and is still today being sold even as we move into other means of clearer pictures and brighter sound.

S-VHS Videotapes

There was a follow up to the VHS and is known as S-VHS. However, this never really gained the popularity like the VHS did. S-VHS stands for “Super VHS” because this was an upgraded of the VHS that everyone already knew and was purchasing. In essence, without all of the technical details, the S-VHS boosts color and the picture of the regular VHS. There are more lines per pictures, so the resolution is better and clearer. S-VHS is comparable to VHS and DVDs. The DVDs were able to fit more information on a smaller surface area, thus creating a better picture. Even with DVDs, high definition became popular and enhanced the viewing resolution as well. However, in order to enjoy HDTV, buyers now had to purchase a new television set in order to accommodate the new graphics. But, that wasn’t the case with S-VHS. The buyers could use the S-VHS in their old system, helping them to adapt better. However, since they didn’t catch on like the VHS did, maybe it was too much too soon. Nowadays it seems like new things are coming out to quickly to even allow time to adjust. Before we purchase something new, we are skipping at least one new wave of technology. Many people will go right from DVDs to Blue Ray and skip HDTV completely. However, by the time that happens, there may already be something new out to switch to.

ASL Interpretation Video Tapes

ASL is an acronym for American Sign Language and there are video tapes to help teachers educate the deaf community with ease. The ASL teachers are encouraged to watch these tapes so they can create a comfortable setting and communicate with the deaf community better. These tapes are always available for purchase, but checking them out at a library is another, low cost, option.