How do I upload video from my mini dv, without a fire wire connection on my computer?

Question

I went out a purchased a USB port with fire wire attachment, but the computer does not recognize the camcorder. All I want to do is upload the video onto the hard drive. Do I have to download a driver, or buy a fire wire port, and hard wire it into the computer?

Answer 1

a miniDV vcam must be FIREWIRE400**-connected to pc to upload video thru video capture or video editing* software while vcam is ON PLAYBACK.  Note: DV or Firewire port of vcam is 4pin. Before cable purchase** (Vcam/4pin=>firewireCABLE=>PC (4/ 6pin?), check pc for DV or firewire port, whether 4 or 6 pin. If none, install firewire card: pci for pc or pcmcia for laptop.

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

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 applications 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*** .msmmw file

4. Share-burn to CD (if DvD, use DvD authoring app, e.g.,DvD Flick, Nero, etc.)

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