DV newbie

[jpfrost]

I have just purchased a JVC GRD53 camcorder and am waiting for delivery. The manual states that I can download to my PC via USB or firewire. Can someone tell me the difference. The reason I ask is that I already have USB and wondered if I need to buy a firewire card.

Thanks.

[hech54]

USUALLY a USB download is for pictures that are stored on the camera's card(if equipped) or DV tape. Firewire is for transfering the video to the PC or DVD Recorder.
There are exceptions but this is usually how it works.

[jeanl]

A firewire (1394) PCI card costs about $5 in the US. It's a good thing to have...
Check out for example:
http://www.pricewatch.com/h/prc.aspx?i=44&a=2779&f=1

Jeanl

[jpfrost]

Thanks for the replies.

I have now recieved my camcorder. In the manual it says to use USB to transfer video to PC. The mention of firewire is as an option.

My question is - if I buy a firewire card will I see a gain in quality or speed?

[hech54]

According to this:
800,00K pixel CCD
16x optical zoom
700X Digital zoom
2.5" LCD screen
Colour Viewfinder
USB port for downloading to PC
Email Video clips
Web-camera function
DV input/output
....it has both USB and DV? If they mean firewire when they say DV input/output...then firewire is the best way to go when transferring the footage to the computer.

[jpfrost]

Yes it has both - a USB connection and firewire connection. But my question is - will there be difference in quality of the transferred video? What's the point in me buying a firewire card and cable if there is no advantage?

Thanks.

[hech54]

I've heard that song before...the song about "download to your PC via the USB connection"...I'm almost 100% sure it's either bullshit OR you will be highly disappointed when comparing it to firewire.
A firewire card, a 4 to 6 pin firewire cable and a $4 copy of Ulead Movie Factory 2 from Ebay will make you a happy camper....that's IF they didn't give you software with your camera.

[jeanl]

... or try WinDV, which is free, small, simple and very reliable.
Jeanl