Capture Mode
Source: Tom's Guide | Keywords: snagit, screenshot, capture | Themes: Software
3. Capture Mode
In the above examples, SnagIt captures were performed using the Image mode. However, SnagIt makes three other capture modes available: Text, Video, and Web.
The Text Mode captures editable text, which can be used in programs such as word processors, or converted to graphical text in graphics programs. It can also save text in comma or tab delimited format, so that the text can be imported into programs such as spreadsheets and databases. One shortcoming here is that the text must be in text format when captured. In other words, there is no OCR (optical character recognition), so you can’t convert graphical text into editable text, like you can do with a scanner and an OCR program. This might be a nice feature for a future version of SnagIt. Windows operating system text is recognized as text, so you can use SnagIt to capture a list of directory entries, or Windows error messages, in text format.
PH00744.jpg 447 KB JPEG Image 12/04/2007 4:31 PM
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PH00747.jpg 2,078 KB JPEG Image 12/04/2007 4:31 PM
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PH00749.jpg 1,071 KB JPEG Image 12/04/2007 4:32 PM
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Above, entries from a Windows directory are captured in text format.
Microsoft Word
Cannot save ’G:\Review SnagIt 9.doc’. The folder is marked as ’Read Only’.
Above, an error message from Microsoft Word is captured in text format.
Video Mode is certainly the most unique of SnagIt’s capture options, since it carries out a task that cannot be accomplished using Windows alone, regardless of how much copying, pasting, and graphics editing that you’re willing to perform. Video Mode captures live screen movements, including (if desired) your cursor and/or live audio recording. If you’ve ever tried to explain a complex task to a friend or colleague, you’ll appreciate the convenience of simply being able to record the task as it’s being performed, and then save it to video.
I found two minor issues with SnagIt’s Video Mode. First, the video options aren’t located in Tools —> Program Preferences, where I expected them to be. To access them, you instead click Capture —> Output —> Properties —> Video File. Second, DirectX Input can’t be combined with Video Mode, so if you want to actually record a video as it plays on your computer, you may first have to access your hardware settings, and turn off hardware acceleration.
As with Video Mode, Web Mode also provides a feature not available in Windows: it’s used to copy all of the images from a Web page. You can also customize the capture to download audio and/or video files, and add custom file extensions to the types of files that you want downloaded.
Again, there were 2 minor issues here. The options for adding audio, video, and custom file extensions is in the Effects menu, which makes no sense. Also, I was unable to get SnagIt to download .FLV files from YouTube or MySpace, despite adding FLV to my list of custom extensions. I have a feeling that this may be due to the fact that FLV files are scripted into these pages with an ID number, instead of a filename, but it still would be a nice feature if added.
- Previous page Image Mode
- Next page Filters and Effects
Great overview Tony.
You are definitely on the spot about explaining technology. For me it's a great project tool, demonstrating what needs to be done instead of trying to put it into words.
But is it worth $49.95? I suppose if you have a specific need for it and use it often. However, for the everyday user I don't see how the cost is justifiable.
I have been using TechSmith SnagIt for many years and the program features, integration with third party applications and support are worth the price of the software for those in need of such an application. In contrast, I am VERY disappointed with the 9.0 interface. I do not see the need to replicate the Microsoft ribbon bar for the sake of doing so and/or at the cost of more intuitive workflow. Jing, which is also by TechSmith, is very good but does not match the features of SnagIt.
I have been using this product for almost 2 years and love it. Working for a multinational company, it has really improved my ability to communicate. The speed at which I can take a screenprint, and then add commentary has greatly increased productivity.
I have also been using Snag-It for a couple of years, and it is indispensible! Yes, Jing - one of their free products - is also wonderful, but Snag-It has tons more features. Worth every penny, and more.
@xxsk8er101xx - Jing and SnagIt are both from the same company. Jing is great, especially for freeware, but it certainly isn't "so much better." It has a much more scaled down feature list.
SnagIt is definitely one of my all-time favorite apps and is a tool I use on virtually a daily basis. Definitely worth the purchase price.
Agree with the previous speakers. Jing is good but the Editing functionality of Snagit is exceptional.
I have been using SnagIt since last century and am totally reliant on it. Yes I did find the new navigation in version 9 a major step back and perhaps techsmith should offer a classic front end for their existing customer base.
For anyone in Real estate this product is a winner. I just love the ability to highlight photos and PDF documents and add labels and arrows. I use the editor more than photoshop. Not bad for less than $50.00....... a lot less if you upgrade.
Like most others that commented here, I have been using Snag it and several other Tech smith products for several years. I personally like the new interface, I am able to move much quicker and when I am dealing with 10 or 20 captures at a time it really works well. I also use Jing everyday and the sharing abilities are wonderful, but it does not replace Snag it (yet). BTW Tom this is the first review I have read of yours and I learned something I did not know, so to those that have made negative comments I will counter that this was an spectacular review.
HONK HONK HOW TO MAKE SNAG IT MY SNAGIT CAPTURED VIDEO IMPROVE AS IT BREAKS UP IT WAS OK TILL RESTORED PC it is a wonderful program for the age