How can I simulate batch capture with CatDV?

Batch capture (the ability to automatically capture a series of clips from tape based on a specified list of in and out timecode values) is one of the main features used to distinguish "entry level" editing systems from their more expensive "fully featured" cousins.

Arguably the main benefit of batch capture is that it gives you repeatability: the ability to delete capture files to free up disk space at the end of a project but then to be able to re-capture and re-generate the original project and all its files at a later date if you need to.

You can use CatDV as a "poor man's" batch capture command to achieve repeatability, even if you use it in conjunction with a low cost NLE which only supports manual capture:

1. Capture your initial footage to disk by manually starting and stopping capture as required
2. Use CatDV to log and split the footage into separate files for each scene you're interested in.
3. Import the movie files generated by CatDV into your NLE, instead of those you originally captured, and edit your project.

Even if your NLE doesn't support timecode, once you have completed your project you can safely delete the movie files written by CatDV. You can repeatably re-generate them at a later stage by manually recapturing footage that spans all the required clips and repeating steps 1 and 2 above. Because it will detect the same scene changes again, CatDV will generate exactly the same files again, even if the capture files don't have exactly the same start and end points as before. As the files will be named the same and cover the same material, you should be able to re-open your original project and resume editing without noticing any change.