Is it possible to transfer video to my computer with this camcorder? it didn't come with any cables or a cd

Question

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=8682829&type=product&id=1198286370318

I haven't bought it yet, the price is just right for me, although i've heard some people say they can't figure out how to upload video to their comp because the only thing included is the camera, no cables or a cd rom or anything.

so would it be possible to buy something? or would i be better off getting a camcorder that comes with software and everything?

-thanks

Answer 1

The link you provided takes us to a Samsung MiniDV tape based camcorder. ALL miniDV tape based camcorders have a DV port that connects with a firewire cable to the firewire port on your computer. If your computer does not have a firewire port, then add one - they are typically pretty cheap - and easy to add (but since we don't know what computer you have, we do know for sure). Most of the consumer miniDV camcorder manufacturers do not include the firewire cable in the box. Firewire cables are cheap, too. Firewire, IEEE1394a, DV and i.LINK are all the same thing.

USB transfer will not work.

When the camcorder is connected with a firewire cable to your computer, and the camcorder is in "Play" or "VCR" mode, Windows MovieMaker will "Capture" the video from the camcorder.

If you use an Apple Macintosh computer, all Macs made ni the last 10 years or so include a firewire400 port standard. The only exception is the new MacBook Air - it does not have a firewire port. You will need a 4-pin to 6-pin firewire cable. iMovieHD will control and import the camcorder over firewire.

Answer 2

it depends if its a harddrive or a tape or dvd.. if its a harddrive youll need to buy the computer cords.. if its a tape. you need to buy the casset converter so you can make  a cassette go to your computer.. and if its a dvd you just take the dvd out and put it into the computer =)