How to connect my Sony Mini Dv camcorder to my P.C?

Question

I have a laptop and I want to use some kind of wire to connect my Sony Mini DV camcorder to my pc for editing. I want to use windows movie maker. I have this red cable that supposed to connect but the end end which is meant to go into the computer doesnt fit in any of the USB connections. What do I need tot buy. I have a holiday coming up and I really want to get the footage on my pc! HELP!!!!!!!!! Thanks

Answer 1

Since you did not tell us what laptop you have, it is a bit of a challenge, but the other two posters are correct. You need to use Firewire 400 (iEEE1394, i.LINK - all the same thing).

Most Windows based laptops do not come with firewire built-in, so you need to add a port. Hopefully, your laprtop has an available PCMCIA slot so you can add a card:

http://shop3.outpost.com/product/4098172...

You will also need a firewire cable:

http://shop3.outpost.com/product/4338375...

Since we do not know what that red cable is, it is difficult to understand what it is capable of doing. If it is a firewire cable, then maybe all you need is the PCMCIA card.

Once the firewire port in the laptop is working, and the camcorder's DV port is connected to the firewire port on the computer - and the camcorder is in "Play/Edit" mode, launch Windows MovieMaker and "Capture" the video from the miniDV tape. Other importing apps or video editors may call it "Import" or something else - it will depend on the application. WinDV is another common one.

USB will not work - not only are the cable ends different (which you have found), but the communications protocols are very different... so even if you did get a USB to firewire converter/adapter, MovieMaker (and other apps) would not recognize the video cam though that port.

Answer 2

a miniDV vcam must be FIREWIRE**-connected to laptop to upload video thru video capture or video editing* application while vcam is on playback. Before cable** purchase, note: Firewire port of vcam is 4pin...check the firewire port of laptop whether 4 or 6 pin. 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 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/Import video files (+pics, music) to be edited

..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)

Answer 3

Hook up the camera via a firewire cable and you should be all set to go. your pc will need a firewire jack as well. This should be the plug you have http://www.thevooner.com/feature/2001/01...

good luck