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How to transfer a video from a camera to a PC?

How do I transfer videotape from my video camera to my PC?

  • I have a Canon ZR800 (NTSC) digital video camera that uses miniDV video cassettes. How do I copy the footage from the cassette to a PC or laptop? My employer does this when I send the tapes to him but I would like to be able to do this first, before I send them out, for my own record keeping. I am assuming there is some sort of cable I need to purchase with a USB connection on one end and "DV" connection on the other (there is a port marked DV on the camera), and some software I will need to get? Thank you in advance.

  • Answer:

    for record keeping purposes, DvD wud be fine. videos normally are in large files such that if these stay in ur laptop, its hard disk will get full just as early, moreso, virus scanning, defrag & other cirtical pc admin activities wud take far too long. DvD can also have titles for ID. try this... a miniDV vcam must be DV~Firewire400**-connected to pc to upload video thru video capture or video editing* application while vcam is ON PLAYBACK. Before cable purchase** check PC for DV port {VCAM@4pin=>firewireCABLE=>PC@4/ 6pin?}. If none, install firewire card: pci for pc or pcmcia / express card for laptop. http://h71036.www7.hp.com/hho/cache/315100-0-0-225-121.html for starters, free Windows Movie Maker* (Vista/wmm6 & XP/wmm2) provides simple & easy way to learn the ropes. Upgrade to intermediate or advanced video editing apps accdg. to need & skill level http://video-editing-software-review.toptenreviews.com/ video editing process- Vista/wmm6 >>> open wmm- start/all programs/wmm->TASK pane 1. Import video stream** - editing software remotely controls vcam operations 2. Edit- drag/drop video files->timeline & enhance w/effects, transition, music & titles 3. Publish (render)- save Movie (OK for youTube), also, save Project.msmmw file >>> Share=>auto-shifts to WindowsDvD authoring app->burn to DvD Similarly: XP/wmm2- Capture/Edit/Finish- DvD authoring app, e.g.,DvD Flick or Nero For details, visit: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/moviemaker/default.mspx

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you can buy a cable that connects to your pc and to the video camera at radio shack for about $20. when I bought mine, I didn't have to install any software. I have Vista windows, and a little screen pops up asking if I want to import. Its really simple.

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