DV camcorder ---> Computer

[nitr0uzv]

Hello all,

its been a while since I posted on the DCRP forums. I know this does not concern digital cameras, but I hope that someone can answer my question. I have been searching google with many results just to confuse me. I would like to know what hardware I would need to transfer video from a miniDV camcorder to my computer. I hear that you can do it using a IEEE 1394 (capture) card which would be the best way, but is too expensive for me.

I would like to know if I can use a Firewire cable (4 pin to USB) to transfer the video to my computer. I am using USB 2.0, would windows movie editor detect my video camcorder this way?

thank you.

[ktixx]

Hello all,

its been a while since I posted on the DCRP forums. I know this does not concern digital cameras, but I hope that someone can answer my question. I have been searching google with many results just to confuse me. I would like to know what hardware I would need to transfer video from a miniDV camcorder to my computer. I hear that you can do it using a IEEE 1394 (capture) card which would be the best way, but is too expensive for me.

I would like to know if I can use a Firewire cable (4 pin to USB) to transfer the video to my computer. I am using USB 2.0, would windows movie editor detect my video camcorder this way?

thank you.

Yes - this is the wrong place for Camcorder Questions, Try Jeff's other site next time (http://www.dvspot.com/):D :) :p
No - You cannot use USB to transfer your video to your computer
- but the main issue here is firewire too expensive?! Take a look at the supplied links:

PCMCIA IEEE 1394 - $12.99 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16815102011)
PCI IEEE 1394 - $19.99 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16815102011)

Hope This Helps,
Ken

[nitr0uzv]

Thank you Ken for your reply.

They do not make firewire to USB do they?

I will need to get a PCI IEEE 1394 card? and any firewire cable will work then? 4 to 6pin 4-4.

and thanks for the link :D

I was never aware that Jeff had a site for DV camcorders

[ktixx]

Someone correct me if I am wrong, but I am pretty sure there are no USB to Firewire cables.
You will need a 4 to 6 pin cable, 4 for the camera side, 6 for the computer side.
PCI IEEE 1394 for PC or PCMCIA IEEE1394 for a laptop
Good Luck
Ken

[cwphoto]

Someone correct me if I am wrong, but I am pretty sure there are no USB to Firewire cables.
You will need a 4 to 6 pin cable, 4 for the camera side, 6 for the computer side.
PCI IEEE 1394 for PC or PCMCIA IEEE1394 for a laptop
Good Luck
Ken

Confirmed. Firewire is peer to peer whilst USB is Master/Slave (which also partially explains why Firewire-a at 400Mb/s is still faster (sometimes much faster) than USB 2.0 at 480Mb/s).

If you are gonna get Firewire for your PC (I just did) get type-b (800Mb/s). This uses a 9-pin connector but you can then just buy a 9-pin to 4-pin cable.

I download my movies this way just as you described (although DV-avi format takes up like 13GB - it's the best format).

The advantage of type-b is the extra speed with type-b compatible equipment (such as the newer external drives).