How do I get my video from my Sony Handycam onto my pc?

Question

My Sony Handycam came with a USB cable, but apparently, you can't us it to play or move video from the camera to the PC or save the images onto a DVD from the PC...this is just silly. The "menu" on the handycam says "USB invalid". They mention a DV and iLink cable and they also mention a Viao...why should I have to get those? Why didn't the DV cable come with the camera when I bought it. Furthermore, why is it so difficult? You should be able to just plug the sucker in an play the video. Help me please...I need this for an upcoming event and I can't seem to get it done!!!

Answer 1

If ur vcam is a miniDV, It's just logical ...the firewire 400 cable doesn't come w/ the box...why?

Given: there are 2 DV or firewire ports to connect the cable:

1. on the camcorder w/c almost always comes w/ a 4-Pin firewire400 port

2. at the other end is ??? Pin port depending on brand, PC or Laptop - which cud be either 4-Pin or 6-Pin or none at all for older models, in which case, a firewire card still has to be put in place (4 or 6pin?).

* In addition there is a newer type...firewire800, tho still uncommon.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Firewire

For the manufacturer, this creates a cost opportunity, since anybody will complain if the cable-in-da-box doesn't suit right... a classic example of d**n if u do/ d**n if u don't.

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If ur vcam is on hdd or flash drive, a USB cable would suffice.

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a miniDV vcam must be FIREWIRE400**-connected to pc to upload video thru video capture or video editing (VES)* software while vcam is ON PLAYBACK.  

for starters, free Windows Movie Maker* (XP-wmm2 & Vista-wmm6) provides simple & easy way to learn the ropes < click help for details>. Upgrade to intermediate video editing app accdg. to need & skill level

http://video-editing-software-review.top...

      video editing process- XP/wmm2

      >>> open wmm- start/all programs/wmm->TASK pane

1. Capture video stream** - editing software remotely controls vcam operations

2. Edit- drag/drop video files->timeline & enhance w/effects, transition, music & titles

3. Finish (render)- save Movie file, also save Project* ** file

4. Share-burn to CD (if DvD, thru a DvD authoring app like DvD Flick, Nero, etc.)

For Vista/wmm6, t’is similar: Import/ Edit/ Publish/ WindowsDVD or Nero for authoring

Answer 2

Check with Sony support!! They have live help that will walk you through it step by step. See the link below>>>>>>>>

Answer 3

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.

If you look at the fine print in your manual, it's mentions firewire connection.