How to transfer video from a mini dv camera into my computer?
I have a dell windows xp. I know i need a firewire cable but my computer does not have a firewire input. Is there any other way I can get the video into my computer? I would like to transfer the video from a mini dv camera to my comp and edit with windows media make and copy the new edited video into a new mini dv cassette? Can anyone help? Thank You.
By: AKA
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Filed under Camcorders by on Jan 3rd, 2010. 
Comments on How to transfer video from a mini dv camera into my computer?
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Just get a firewire card for your PC. They are cheap.
They other way is to get a mini dv editor, but they start out at about $2,100.
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you can’t edit video w/ windows media player, you’re going to need a video editor amd anything good isn’t free, even crap like quicktime is $30 if you want to be able to edit. next, you’re gonna need another interface to your usb connection. is the only computer interface on the cam firewire? that’s kinda strange to me. but if so, you’re probably gonna need some other type of video interface like:
good luck.
for some reason i concluded you had a laptop, if not the first answer does the trick for the interface part, but still… you need the program to edit.
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If on Vista, firewire is a must, however, on XP, you may be able to upload video files thru a video capture or video editing* app via USB (although firewire would be best).
install firewire card: pci for desktop or pcmcia / express for laptop.
Entry-level Movie Maker* (free w/ Vista/wmm6 & XP/wmm2) is simple & easy to learn.
~see tutorials:
Upgrade to intermediate (or advanced) video editing apps accdg. to need & skill level
video editing process- XP/Wmm2
>>> open wmm- start/all programs/wmm->TASK pane
1. Capture video stream**-remotely controls vcam on PLAYBACK; import pics & music
2. Edit- drag/drop video files->timeline & enhance w/effects, transition, music & titles
3. Finish (render)- save Movie (OK for youTube), also, save Project.msmmw file
>>> Share=>shift to DvD authoring app (DvD Maker; WinDvD; Nero; DvD Flick, etc)->burn to DvD
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You can get a firewire port added to your desktop or laptop for less than $50. Go to your local computer electronics store and they can help you with this.
Another option is to send your tapes to a video transfer service and to have the put the videos onto a portable hard drive so you can edit on your computer. Check out StashSpace.Com they can do this
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You may take a look at this guide, it’s about how to capture video from DV and Camera to computer or DVD. It works pretty well for me
Hope it helps. If you still have problem, feel free to contact me.
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You camera must have sa USB plug .. so that you can connect it to your computer.