My computer doesn't notice when I plug in my handycam ...?

Question

I am trying to get film from my Sony handycam that uses mini DV tapes to go onto the hard disk of a Windows XP PC. I have a cable for it (Firewire 4 pin to 6 pin) and the computer has a Firewire port in it. However, when I plug the camcorder on the lead in the computer doesnt show any 'New Devices' window or anything. Tried it switched on and switched off. Does anyone know what's wrong? Thanks.

Answer 1

Video  Editing  Process *

*CAPTURE / IMPORT  video stream from vcam & video files from pc folders, EDIT  to make the movie as a project, FINISH  (render / save)  movie in the desired video file format and /or, SHARE …burn to CD/DVD.

for starters, XP/ Windows Movie Maker (wmm**) provides the simple & easy way (& free) to learn the ropes < click Help for fine details>. For enhanced effects, try  SpiceFx  by Pixelan,  Venture later into other video editing app ( http://video-editing-software-review.top... )  according to skill level & need.

Steps:

CAPTURE VIDEO

a.) Connect vcam to pc via firewire (4 or 6 pin) for good transfer (USB can do but possible drop frames with effect on quality)

b.) Set vcam mode to playback desired video, adjust settings for capture, then pause

c.) Open Windows Movie Maker and set to TASKS PANE

d.) In wmm/ Tasks pane/CAPTURE VIDEO, click CAPTURE from video device; wmm should be able to control vcam operations. On play, video files are copied to wmm/COLLECTION (usually several video files, although will not notice during vcam playback)

e.) Import also other desired files (video, pics, sounds, narration) from pc folder to wmm/ Collection

EDIT MOVIE

f.) wmm/EDIT: drag & drop captured video files one by one from collection to TIMELINE chart below at the desired sequence

g.) Enhance/EDIT your video further if you wish: drag/drop effects- transition, filter; create titles…test to your liking & re-edit as you wish

FINISH MOVIE (rendering)

h.) Save the video file to pc and/ or share; then Save project file (work-in-progress) for future edits.

Finally, SHARE

i.) Burn to CD or DVD***   (Wmm2 only on CD for XP)

     ***DVD authoring is incorporated in most video editing app. Otherwise, use DVD authoring programs, WinDVD, Nero, Encore, etc.

Answer 2

Looks like you need a program to deal with this. Did your handycam come with a computer disc?

If so load it. it will load the program onto your PC and you can go from there

Or download a driver program for it. Done that with my Mobile and managed to connect that