Mini DV to Computer?

[BillW]

How do I transfer out off a MiniDv to my computer? I do have a USB cable. Is there software to accept/read the tape as it plays on the camcorder??
I have a Panasonic PVGS19 if that helps. I also have a 1 gig SD card but the video I want is on the mini DV.


Thanks!
Bill

[Tom Mussatto]

Bill, you can download video from your cam to PC via USB 2.0 but it is slower and not as reliable as firewire. Your GS19 has a 4 pin firewire port and if your PC is also equiped with it (probably 6 pin) this is the way to go. You will need to purchase a 4 pin to 6 pin firewire cable. If you do use a USB port you will probably have to install the software that came with the cam, firewire requires no additional software.

If you are running Windows XP you should have Windows Movie Maker bundled in the operating system. If you are running a Mac you should have iMovie bundled in the system. After connecting your cam to PC or Mac open WMM (iMovie) and follow instructions on transferring video to your computer. Be sure WMM (iMovie) has recognized your cam before preceding. WMM is very limited on what you can with the video but it is a very easy program to use and does make good video clips formatted for internet use.

If you are wanting to edit the video/audio and make DVD's, VHS tapes, or transfer back to miniDV then you would be better served by getting video editing and DVD burning software.

[BillW]

Thanks Tome! I will check out the cam for that Firewire port.
Bill