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How do i get a camcorder mini disc onto my computer?

I can't get my videos imported onto my computer from my camcorders! Why? ?

  • Okay, so I have two camcorders; one is a Hitachi BX35A, and the second one is a Sony Handycam. First of all, about the Hitachi one; I had lost the software disc that was for editing the videos that had came in the box with it, so I do not have it on my computer... although I didn't even want to use that because I wish to use Pinnacle Ultimate studios with my videos... but would that be the problem? When I put the disc into the computer (i've tried them finalized and un-finalized and almost every kind of mini disc) I will get two files; a Video TS file and a Video RM file... both of which I can't do anything with! Now for the Handycam, I just got this a month ago thinking this would solve my problems. I installed the software (the same as above though, I wish to use Pinnacle Ultimate Studios) but it doesn't do anything. The SAME problem happens! Can anyone please tell me if I am doing anything wrong, and possibly inform me of a camcorder that I can use that wont give me so many problems, pretty easy to use and good quality videos? I'd especially like it if the camcorder didn't need a mini disc to use, but instead have like, memory or something. That would be wonderful. Thank you so much if you took the time to read this and possibly help this stressed 14 year old out!!

  • Answer:

    1) DVD camcorders are the WORST camcorders for quality video. You have also discovered that transferring their video is painful. If you ever get it transferred, the video quality will be terrible. 2) You did not supply enough detailed information. We know your Hitachi is DVD based, but you said nothing about the Sony. Both camcorders have manufacturer's model numbers. What are they? 3) Hopefully, your computer has a drawer loading DVD drive. If so, finalize the DVDs in the camcorder, download and install HandBrake - or whatever DVD ripper you like. Put the camcorder DVD in the computer's drawer loading DVD drive and rip the video (high qaulity is best) to a format your video editor likes (.avi, .wmv, .dv for MovieMaker; .mov, .mp4, .dv for iMovie). 4) Are you doing anything wrong? Only if you bought another DVD based camcorder after the Hitachi did not do what you wanted. 5) MiniDV tape provides best video quality because it is least compressed. Flash memory is next best - Hard drive based camcorders are the same as flash memory, but hard drive camcorders have problems with vibration, high altitude and data recovery if the camcorder breaks before you are able to transfer the video. DVD camcorders barely make a good doorstop - sorry.

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The issue is simple. DVD camcorders are not designed for video editing. DVDs were originally designed to make it very difficult and illegal to rip or edit the video from them. Besides, your computer and its free software is designed to work directly with Digital8, miniDV, HDV, and other DV tape camcorders that use Firewire (i.Link, IEEE 1394). Get any of these camcorders, and you will find it much easier to do your video editing.

If you have a mini dvd camcorder…. You will have to finalize your dvd in the camera and then put the dvd in your computer's DVD burner (top loading only) and then you will have to convert the files (I downloaded handbrake file converter free) and import them into your editing program. Use the HELP feature in your editing program to learn about editing. Once you are ready to burn, your project will be burned to a different DVD and you can file the original away. If you have a mini dv (cassette) camcorder…. Your dv camcorder needs a firewire connection (ieee 1394) in order to download video, your PC probably did not come with a firewire port, so you will have to buy one and install it, since most computers (except possibly brand new) don't come with a firewire port, your camcorder did not come with a firewire cord so you have to purchase a cord too. Your camcorder did come with a USB cord and that is used for downloading stills from your camcorder. Make sure your camera is in playback mode. The fine print in your manual makes reference to firewire (ieee 1394) connection.

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