How do i get videos off of my sony DCR TRV20 camcorder onto my Compaq presario F700?

Question

How do I get the videos off of the camcorder?

Here's what I know so far:

I need a certain program

I need a special cable

I need a FireWire cable to connect them

I have a program called Roxio Creator Basic v9, that came with my computer. It says it should be able to take the video off of the tape and put it onto my computer. But do I need a USB cable? Do they even make this type of cable? If anyone has any answers please respond. Thank you!

Answer 1

most mini DV cameras have a firewire port or "iLink" connection on them...sony uses the whole ilink word...

get a firewire cable and use that to connect to your desktop and transfer using windows movie maker.

if your desktop does not have a firewire port, buy a card that will add a few.  Newegg.com has a good selection for lower prices.

Answer 2

Correct, minidv, firewire, try also ROXIO MEDIA SUITE, start software then turn ON camera, make dvd. Also can plug and burn for instant dvd.

Answer 3

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

Answer 4

Hey Brandon,

Your Mini DV camera comes equipped with a fire wire connection (1394), all you do is plug one end into the camera, and the other into your computer.

Your computer should have a capture card with video editing software, so you can edit the video footage. You may need to purchase a fire wire (1394) cord, from your local Best Buys, Circuit City, or Radio Shack, if you don't have one.