Converting MiniDV to digital format


ken168

New Member
Hi,

Can anyone advise how I can convert my MiniDV video footage onto a digital format like AVI ?
 

Hi,

Can anyone advise how I can convert my MiniDV video footage onto a digital format like AVI ?
get a firewire and capture the video using programs like windows movie maker:thumbsup:
 

Hi,

Can anyone advise how I can convert my MiniDV video footage onto a digital format like AVI ?


DV is already digital. That's what the D stands for. you just need to transfer the data from tape to disk using firmware. this will create DV format avi files. they are pretty huge files though, but easy to edit.
 

yeah check if your laptop (if you are using one) has a firewire port. Then get a firewire cable to connect to the video cam. I use Windows Movie maker to capture the files as AVI format.
 

yeah check if your laptop (if you are using one) has a firewire port. Then get a firewire cable to connect to the video cam. I use Windows Movie maker to capture the files as AVI format.

I have the same problem. My PC didn't detect my camcorder "Panasonic NV GS5" after I plug it in using firewire. I still can use the camcorder to record and view on its screen but have problem transfering my library of tape to my HDD for editing. I think my camcorder internal card maybe faulty.

Can anyone help me?

Rgds
Topgan
bennygantb@yahoo.com
 

Some troubleshooting options:

1) Test your camera with another computer
2) Test with another firewire cable
3) Test your computer with another similar camera

If it's camera problem, easiest way is to borrow another miniDV firewire camera from a friend?
 

yeah check if your laptop (if you are using one) has a firewire port. Then get a firewire cable to connect to the video cam. I use Windows Movie maker to capture the files as AVI format.
I tried using the firewire and Windows Movie Maker route and the video was very unclear, unlike what I get if i just view the video directly from the camcorder. Is it because of codec? If I use a better 'program' like Sony Vegas or Final Cut Pro will I get better results?
 

Last edited:
Hi,

Can anyone advise how I can convert my MiniDV video footage onto a digital format like AVI ?

I have the same problem. My PC didn't detect my camcorder "Panasonic NV GS5" after I plug it in using firewire. I still can use the camcorder to record and view on its screen but have problem transfering my library of tape to my HDD for editing. I think my camcorder internal card maybe faulty.

Can anyone help me?

I tried using the firewire and Windows Movie Maker route and the video was very unclear, unlike what I get if i just view the video directly from the camcorder. Is it because of codec? If I use a better 'program' like Sony Vegas or Final Cut Pro will I get better results?

On a PC, I assume you are using Win XP with SP3. Your camcorder comes with some included drivers on CD. Install the drivers, reboot your PC and then re-insert the firewire cable and turn on your camcorder. Your PC should be able to detect your camcorder and import the video as ".AVI".

On a Mac, just plug in the firewire and iMovie should be able to detect the camcorder and import the video accordingly as ".DV".

Still got issues? PM me for an appointment and I can help you to setup your PC or Mac. :cool:
 

Last edited:
I tried using the firewire and Windows Movie Maker route and the video was very unclear, unlike what I get if i just view the video directly from the camcorder. Is it because of codec? If I use a better 'program' like Sony Vegas or Final Cut Pro will I get better results?

The video was "very unclear" because you use the default output setting i.e. 352 × 288

For Standard Definition, the resolution is 720 × 576. HDV resolution is 1980 x 1080.

Sony Vegas 9 or Final Cut Pro or Avid are high end video editors for cinematic displays which will not be discussed here.

Download the updated Windows Movie Maker from Windows Live. :cool:
 

Dear All,

I am right. My Camcorder internal card for the transfer is faulty. I bought a 2nd hand camcorder and manage to transfer my miniDVtapes to my PC. Will start to transfer all my miniDVtape to my PC&DVD. WOw, it was so wonderful seeing how young my children and sexy mywife used to be haha.

Anyonbe need help to transfer their DVtape to DVD/HDD can PM me.

Rgd
Topgan
 

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