Firewire cable?

Question

I own a Panasonic PV-GS85 DV. I need a firewire cable but I know nothing about them. What should I look for to get transfer with the best picture and sound?

Answer 1

If you have a mini dv (cassette) camcorder….

Your dv camcorder needs a firewire connection (ieee 1394) in order to download video, your PC probably did not come with a firewire port, so you will have to buy one and install it, since most computers (except possibly brand new) don't come with a firewire port, your camcorder did not come with a firewire cord so you have to purchase a cord too. Your camcorder did come with a USB cord and that is used for downloading stills from your camcorder. Make sure your camera is in playback mode.

Answer 2

well since your camera is mini dv it will not matter if you get a 400 or 800 firewire cable.  they transfer in excellent quality, and transfer in real time.  meaning if you have 35mins of footage it will take 35mins to transfer.  so i would just go down to a circuit city or best buy or something and buy a 400 firewire cable.  you'll notice that they 800 firewire cables cost more, but its not because their better quality, its just because in some formats they transfer quicker, buit not for min dv, which is the kind of camcorder you have so there is no point in getting a 800.