Videotapes

For some, videotapes seem to be outdated technology, but there are many items that would not have been possible to view if the video tape was not still around. While the Western world is moving on to DVDs and now even the latest available media, Blu-Ray discs, much of the rest of the world is still utilizing video tapes in every day society.

The videotape of the Daniel Pearl slaughter made waves around the world, angering individuals worldwide towards the radicals and extremists who are terrorizing the world. While many western world countries have the ability to play DVDs and view greater technologically advanced footage, many eastern and Middle Eastern nations have not embraced such technology yet due to the expense and lack of funds. Without videotape, the injustice paid to Pearl would have never had the impact that the tape broadcast round the world did.

Aside from the infamous cell phone recording, there was also a Saddam execution videotape that was aired for all Iraqis to view, allowing them to see justice done to their oppressor via the airwaves. Without a tape, these people would not have been able to see justice done to evil and may never have had the same sense of closure.

In many cases, old video recordings are being updated to DVDs. However, because superior sound quality is not a factor, ASL interpreting video tapes are still valid products that can be used for individuals to learn American Sign Language and practice interpretation. Also, recordings of major events such as seminars and conventions include ASL interpreters, and these recordings are typically made on videotapes.

While there are new DVRs that record your favorite shows to DVD or a hard drive, many people still use S-VHS video tapes to record anything they are unable to watch until later. In fact, there are still places where you can find an 8mm video tape player, reverting to old methods and very old technology to view home videos taken decades ago with antiquated technology.

In some parts of the world, society has moved on to something better and more advanced, but in many places, videotapes are still the peak of technology. Even in modern countries, video tapes come in handy for several needs, including filming your daughter’s ballet recital and your sons little league game. Eventually, they may be phased out, but that is years away from reality.