How do I output to a Computer?

John Scott

John Scott

Well-known member
I just bought a camera (used) and maybe it is missing a cable or something but I can't find a way to get it from the camera onto the computer.. I read the instructions and it says you can do it with the Red/Yellow/White but my laptop doesn't have those connections.

It also mentions another cable, but I can't find it. Is that a seperate purchase? Can I pick it up anywhere? Does anyone have a better idea?

Obviously I am a total newb at this.
 
Probably you need a firewire cable. If your laptop doesn't have a firewire port then you need to buy one (it's inserted via the PCMCIA slot on your laptop). If you see a very small rectangular jack on your camera, that's the firewire port. You can buy these things at any Radio Shack I think.
 
I thought so, much thanks man!

Is there a specific one for camcorders or will any fire wire cable do?
 
Laptops generally have a 4-pin firewire port (same as the DVX), so you'll need a 4-pin to 4-pin cable (assuming your laptop has a firewire port). Brand doesn't really matter that much.
 
cable


4-Pin%20to%204-Pin%20FireWire.jpg


laptop connection

firewire.jpg


DVX connection. Its on the other side of the camera behind the rubber tab near the front of the cam.
dvx100bspec.jpg
 
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I just went to RadioShack and purchased one. Thanks for all of the assistance on this, guys!

You are all a huge help.
 
Just remember, DO NOT CONNECT YOUR CAMERA WITH FIREWIRE WHEN POWERED ON. Your camera should always be off when connecting the firewire cable.

That'll save you a blown firewire port in the future. :)
 
MiniMan said:
Just remember, DO NOT CONNECT YOUR CAMERA WITH FIREWIRE WHEN POWERED ON. Your camera should always be off when connecting the firewire cable.

That'll save you a blown firewire port in the future. :)
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Turn it on once you need to upload then? Or does the program access the tape while it is off?

Sorry, I am attempting a crash course for all of this. I really appreciate everyone's effort in helping me.
 
Make your connection, then turn on the camera and computer.

I don't use Vegas, Avid for me, but it should have some type of capture tool or interface with "VCR" buttons that should control the camera via the firewire connection.
 
All I have is Vegas for now. I think I am getting a MacBook Pro next week so I won't get too attached.
 
John Scott said:
All I have is Vegas for now. I think I am getting a MacBook Pro next week so I won't get too attached.
Click to expand...

That's easier said than done. Vegas has a way of making you glad you're not using another NLE. Especially when working with DVX footage.
 
Aw, man . . . if you think you're confused when capturing with Vegas . . . capturing 24p with FCP is going to fry your circuits beyond repair. :)
 
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