That is another question that I have "studied" i.e. research on the Web. Back to tape is apparently the surest long-term backup method - provided you store them properly (but that also applies to the other two possibilities - DVD and external hard drive). They should be stored not flat but upright in a box."Perhaps you want to return the edited DV(avi) file back to your camcorder for long term storage on tape. If you do then perhaps the Jerry Jones method might be better".
So I generally do create a DV-AVI file as Jerry (sorry not Trevor) does. In the drop-down box in the Edit window you can choose "Same as project" or "DV-AVI". Strangely, they are not identical: the DV-AVI file is longer than the "Same as" file!
Since I started this discussion, I would like to conclude it with the following remarks:
In the burn window the second button is "Import a VSP". If this is not recommendable why is it there? I am tempted to use it not to save time (not a major concern for me - while waiting I can do something "useful") but simply and solely to avoid double rendering which, since learning that it impairs quality, has become my main problem. Ulead is so addicted to rendering it's hard to stop him. Smart Render is not smart enough - I wonder if the competitive products are better?
""Perhaps in your trials you may wish to test that for us and let us know your results.
Yes, Steve, I'll do that, and many thanks to you and to Trevor, Ken and the other contributors. It has become clear that the practice of these experienced members basically follows the "Suggested Work Flow" (with minor variations).