dvd and tv use

> I'm creating an instructional video that will be played back by many users
> on
> a DVD player that is attached to a TV. I can remove all of the click-able
> content so that it basically flows as a video.
>
> I want to know if anyone has had success or problems with using Captivate
> to
> create DVDs for playback on televisions. For example:
> -Is Captivate the right tool to use? If not, what should I use?

There are many threads and discussions here, filled with peple who are angry
that it is difficult to convert Captivte to a movie format. Frankly I am
amazed, since Captivate is clearly a tool for creating interactive content,
not video, but there you go. In those same threads you will find numerous
suggestions as to how you may convert Captivate to some sort of movie
format. You could also try importing your published swf file to Adobe After
Effects, then publish it out as an appropriate format.

> -Does the resolution look ok? Any recommendations for improving the
> quality?

Typically your Captivate captures would be 800x600, 1024x768 or maybe even
higher resolution. This is going to be higher quality than sypical
televisions can reproduce which (if I remember right ... I get confused
between the British and US systems) is 720 x 480, unless you are actively
planning to target HD TV. If you know for certain what resolution your
typical target tv will be, then for best results you should capture your
screens at that same resolution. General 'best practice' would be to target
the lowest common denominator anyway, which

> -Do I need to use a third party DVD creator, or can Captivate export into
> this
> format with auto-play features, menus, etc? If 3rd party, any
> recommendations?

I don't know of a way to directly export Captivate into a DVD format. A
ssuggested above, you should be able to convert the Captivate swf to another
video format using After Effects or any of a number of other tools. Then you
need to use a different tool - Premier has something built in, as does most
DVD burning software.

> -What is the best way to output this so that the aspect ratio is good for
> television?

Start with the right pixel dimensions for your target tv screen.

> -Any other advice would be appreciated.

Be prepared to experiment. Be prepared for a barrage of seemingly
conflicting advice :-) There are many ways to skin this cat.


Steve


--
http://twitter.com/Stevehoward999

Adobe Community Expert: eLearning, Mobile and Devices
European eLearning Summit - EeLS
Adobe-sponsored eLearning conference.
http://www.elearningsummit.eu