How to convert mini dv tape to computer

[Mar@34]

Hi guys, im new to this so hope I'm posting in the right thread.
I have an old Samsung mini dv digital cam VP-D351 PAL, when I play the tape I can hear the sound but can't view the tape.

My question is firstly is there any way of fixing this, or is there anyway I can convert all my tapes to a computer.
I have a few tapes with loads of old memories and would love to view them.
Thank you.


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[Alwyn]

A couple of ideas:

- Is the screen actually working? Can you see any of the on-screen displays such as these:


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or is the screen blue?

- If not, try connecting it to the VCR via the AV cable.

If Yes, the video heads are probably very dirty. If you have a head-cleaning tape, run it in accordance with it's instructions.

In general, it's best to transfer MiniDV to your PC via a Firewire cable (it goes in that small rectangular socket at the top, in your first pic). But you need a Firewire socket on your PC, which is uncommon these days. It can be done using other methods though.

[Mar@34]

Screen is white noting else on it, I can hear sound perfectly.

Any specific firewall cable or socket? Will I get them on amazon.

Thanks for your help

[Alwyn]

Have a read of my notes on DV transfer here.

I would try playing a tape on the TV via the AV cable if you still have it because that will determine if the camcorder is stuffed or not. If you have to get another camcorder, the type you could get will make life very easy for you, obviating the need to open up your machine and install a Firewire card.

[Mar@34]

Thank you for your help. Will look for the av cable. Will look at your notes now thank you

[thecoalman]

Any specific firewall cable or socket?

The one on the camera is 4 pin, the one on the computer/firewire card is typically 6 pin but it could be 4 pin. Assuming 6 pin on the comouter you need 4 pin to 6 pin cable. The additional two pins are for carrying power and not required for transfer but you do need the right connector. It's just dummy connection on 6 pin side if the other side is 4 pin.

As already suggested try and get the video working before investing in cables and firewire card.

[Mar@34]

Ok thanks for all the advice. I have many tapes though so need to have a way to save them and store them on USB.
Thanks

[rgr]

Thank you for your help. Will look for the av cable. Will look at your notes now thank you

You need FireWire (IEEE 1994) anyway. AV cable produces a significantly worse image.
It might be quicker to find someone (old laptops had Firewire) and check with them.

[Mar@34]

I have an old laptop will check is it still working and see does it have firewire and go from there. Thank you

[Alwyn]

You need FireWire (IEEE 1994) anyway.

Not necessarily. That's why I suggested making sure the camcorder works first. If it doesn't, Mar34 can try to get a Panasonic that transfers DV over USB without needing to go down the FireWire path.

And nobody is suggesting use of the AV cable to transfer.