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Question

Windows Vista does not detect miniDV Camcorder through IEEE.

Apr 13, 2012 9:23AM PDT

I am having problems transferring video from my miniDV camcorder to my laptop. My laptop does not detect my camcorder at all.

I have:
Windows Vista Basic 32-bit
JVC GR-DVL510U miniDV camcorder
6 pin to 4 pin firewire 400 cable
Best Connectivity IEEE 1394a firewire express card port (Texas Instruments OHCI Compliant IEEE 1394 Host Controller)

I am using:
WinDV
Windows Movie Maker
Windows Movie Maker Live

Apparently, this has something Windows Vista not being able to "enumerate" the camcorder.

I have tried Microsoft's solution without much luck: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/927827

The camcorder is in play mode, and cables are connected. The express firewire card is detected and the latest drivers are installed for it. I try hitting "play" to get Windows to recognize it, but that does not work either.

In USB mode (DSC), my camcorder is detected by my computer, and I am able to transfer still images, however, firewire does not work. Manual and JVC tech support are very unhelpful.

Anyone know a fix?

Discussion is locked

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Answer
The most common causes I know of.
Apr 13, 2012 9:35AM PDT

1. The Windows was installed by a shop that didn't know to install motherboard and more drivers.
2. The firewire port is blown. Test the camera on another PC.
3. The camcorder is not in the right mode. See manual (I won't guess this one.)
4. The USB means ZIP here. Nice detail but means so little.

JVC Tech here was good but then at 120 per hour...
Bob

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None of these apply.
Apr 13, 2012 12:49PM PDT

1. This was a laptop bought at retail. All drivers are at factory installed.
2. Firewire port works.
3. Camcorder is in the right mode.
4. Yes, USB working means little.

It seems like it some sort of software issue? I think it is some problem with Windows Vista from what I found on Google. Either that, or I don't know.

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No I don't.
Apr 13, 2012 2:54PM PDT

You convinced me it's not software.

If it's a new laptop from retail, you only need to have them show you it working with any camcorder.

Yes, it could be software but nothing was told about any changes from stock.
Bob

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Show who?
Apr 13, 2012 3:14PM PDT

Okay, so I think then it is either the camcorder port or the firewire cable. I might go to a friend's house and test it out.

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My camcorder does not work in Windows Vista
Apr 14, 2012 6:05AM PDT

I tried my firewire cable and the jvc mini dv camcorder on a friend's windows xp machine, and it works.

You were wrong Bob, it was a software problem.

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My JVC works fine with Vista.
Apr 14, 2012 4:02PM PDT

Until more clues are found, there is something wrong with this PC. Vista has worked with Firewire for years. It's just this PC that does not.

I'd love to be wrong about this, but it's not Vista at the heart of the matter.
Bob

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Answer
I have the same problem as you...
Dec 12, 2012 10:51AM PST

My cannon mini dv camcorder mvx 150i is not detected by windows vista 32-bit home premium, in my Laptop through IEEE 1394 port... In my desktop I don't have any problem with windows xp. The same problem as you...all drivers are up to date...???

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How do you know drivers are up to date?
Dec 12, 2012 11:57PM PST

And again, we don't use the Microsoft Driver Update. That and the buttons in Device Manager are not trustworthy.
Bob