How do I know if my computer has a Digital Video (DV) port + Firewire card?

Question

I am trying to upload videos from my Mini DV Camcorder but cannot due to the possible absence of a DV Port.

I've been told that I also need a IEEE1394 Firewire Card in order for my computer to detect my camcorder. I already have the firewire cable and have tried it but still no luck. My USB port reads it as an "unknown device" with a yellow question mark. So, how do I know that I currently have a firewire card?

If this helps at all, the manufacturer is by JVC and model # is GR-D350U.

Ok thanks.

Answer 1

Your firewire cable should have a 4 pin plug at one end to fit the camcorder and a 6 pin plug at the other end for the PC.  All the drivers are built into the OS - you don't need anything else.

Answer 2

All you need is a 4-pin-to-6-pin Firewire cable.  No CD, no drivers, if you're using Windows XP or later.  If you have Vista, things might get a bit sticky, I've heard of plenty of video-via-Firewire issues in the downgrade known as Windows Vista.

Just plug it in, turn your camcorder on (likely in "playback" mode or something similar), and go to "capture" mode in an editing program such as Windows Movie Maker or any other one you want to use.  It should actually be quite simple.

Enjoy!

Answer 3

There are 2 types of  firewire 400 connectors, 4pin & 6 pin.

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

A minDV vcam almost always comes w/ a 4 pin port. A pc or laptop can have either of the two or neither. As such, before buying a firewire cable, check first ur laptop or pc port as to what type it is ... or if neither, in which case u have to procure the accessory: pci card for pc or pcmcia card for laptop (just goggle).

The firewire cable needed would then be either 4pin/4pin or 4pin/6pin.

Yes June, the cable should be 4pin/6in... the details as per NYC fan..Thanks!

Now you're set for video editing*:

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

Video Editing Process

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

..Step 1. Capture video stream while vcam is on playback

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

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

..Step 4. Share-burn to CD (to DvD thru a DvD authoring app)