MiniDV tape to USB converter?

Question

I have a Mini DV tape that i want to send to the computer. do they make any kind of converters or do i have to put the tape in the camcorder and connect cables from the camcorder to the computer. If i do hav eto connect it from camera to computer, then what kind of cables do i need?

Answer 1

You can get MiniDV decks, but they're more expensive than the camcorders and they don't connect via USB.   You'll need to capture the video via firewire rather than USB - if your PC hasn't already got one you'll need to install a firewire card. They're cheap, easy to install and readily available. You'll also need a firewire cable.

Answer 2

Just use firewire, i.Link, IEEE1394  like everyone else - even the professionals.  Firewire was originally built specifically for miniDV.

The firewire port for your camcorder will be the small 4-pin.  Find the firewire port on your computer and compare it to the one on your camcorder.  If it is bigger, it is 6-pin.

You will probably need a 6-pin to 4-pin firewire cable like most people.  If not, you need a 4-pin to 4-pin cable.

Connect the cable between your camcorder and computer.  Turn your camcorder on to play - it is best to have it plugged into the wall.  Turn on your computer, and use Windows Movie Maker (in Windows) or iMovie on a Mac to capture your tapes to computer.   You can then use the same program to edit and export the video to the format you need.

It is much simpler than it sounds, and it takes less time to set up than it took to type this information.

Answer 3

No converters. You need a firewire connection.

If you have a mini dv (cassette) camcorder….

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.