Video from MiniDV to PC
 

How do I get my MiniDV videos from my camcorder to my PC? My JVC MiniDV camcorder only appears to transfer over USB. I know I can buy a Firewire card for my PC but is there some kind of adapter to convert the USB to the Firewire? Or is there a better alternative?

I am new to this but have a large project to do...any input would be appreciated.

You will need to get a firewire card for your computer. DV cams will not transfer the video via usb. The usb is only for the stills. XP has windows movie maker built in to get the video on to the computer. However, you will probably want to get other software as windows movie maker is not the best.

Cool...thanks -- so all I need is a firewire card and the software and the software will handle the video transfer?

Unless your JVC is a very early DV cam it will have a dv out. (My first DV camera does not).

If you have a very early model, buy a new dv cam as they are so cheap.

The card will be cheap to buy, But I would recomend that you buy a second harddrive for the films.

Buy studio version 9. You can find free versions, but its so cheap that its worth buying the full version.

When uploading film, do not run any softwear (except the film softwear).

If you have a recent aple mac, its all set up to go. It includes the ports and softwear.

fuckin annoying
i finally found a usb video camera
just for basic films of my daugther and the fucker didnt work right

*sigh*
i hate that my laptop does not have firewire

Good tips -- I bought the camcorder about 3 years ago but I do believe it has DV out. I will have to make sure when I get home tonight and look at it.

I have an extra, external harddrive for the movies so I am good to go there.

You can get a firwire card for your laptop, they are cheap too.