Device could not be opened

[vanceen]

I've been using a Hollywood Dazzle Bridge for capture with Video Capture for some time without major problems. However, today when I start Video Capture I first get the message "The device 'No capture device' could not be opened. Make sure that it is turned on and not in use by another application or user."

Then, "Microsoft DV Camera and VCR" is detected (this is how VC has always seen the Hollywood Bridge). Immediately after, I get the message "The device 'Microsoft DV Camera and VCR' could not be opened......"

Does anyone have any clue as to what could be going on?

My hardware is fine, in that it's always worked before. I've confirmed that Microsoft drivers are being used for my Firewire card.

[Allan55]

Try cycling the power to the Bridge (pull the power cord, wait a few seconds, replace). Mine frequently crashes for captures (pass-thru still works) whenever I turn on-off other devices in the room; mainly other computers.

Allan

[vanceen]

Thanks, Allan.

I've tried powering off / on, but it was no help. The bridge is recognized by the OS, and SF Video Capture sees it but immediately announces it can't open it.

On strange thing I noticed. Device Manager and SF Video Capture both call the Bridge "Microsoft DV Camera and VCR". I'm pretty sure it used to say "Microsoft DV Camera OR VCR". I've double-checked that the Microsoft drivers are installed for both the device and for the IEEE1394 interface, and I've done a virus check.

Hmmm... Used to work!

[M66]

vanceen, try this:
Reboot Windows with the bridge turned on.
This is the only thing that works reliably for me these days.
I have a Canopus ADVC-100 and the exact same problem as you.
For me, this started after installing Ulead VideoStudio 7, which installed DirectX 9. After that, I get a "device is already in use" or "cannot connect to capture device" message all the time (depending on what software I use for capturing, I get different error messages).
But rebooting Windows with the ADVC turned on, works.
Hope it does for you and the Dazzle too. Have you installed any new software recently? Or upgraded to DirectX 9?

PS You can also try this: With the bridge *turned on*, remove the firewire plug from the computer and reinsert it.

[vanceen]

Thanks, M66.

I've tried rebooting with the bridge on. I've also tried removing and re-inserting the firewire cable, as well as the bridge power cable.

I have installed quite a few items of software lately, including Ulead's DVD Workshop and a few other things that came with my DVD burner. These are supposed to be able to capture. (No DirectX 9.) But even after uninstalling these, I still get the problem.

I've tried booting into Windows ME and installing Video Factory there. Guess what. It works.

It looks as if Win2k has been gummed up with something. I'll have to try a fresh install, I guess.