Power off b4 connecting DV Camcorder to PC via Firewire?

[JeffD]

My DV Camcorder manual (Pansonic PV-GS65) says,

Before making these [computer to camcorder] connections, turn off all devices which are to be connected.

Is this one of those "CYA" warnings, to limit Panasonic's liability in the remote and unlikely case that someone experiences a problem; or is this a valid warning I should heed?

I've got a Win2K Dell which takes a relatively long time to reboot; and I'd like to plug and play, as long as I'm not going to turn either or both of my devices into toast.

Anyone have experience/insights to share?

Thanks,
JeffD

[thecoalman]

My DV Camcorder manual (Pansonic PV-GS65) says,

Before making these [computer to camcorder] connections, turn off all devices which are to be connected.

A computer is not considered a device, at least not in this context.

[edDV]

Just turn the camcorder off. That is what you are protecting.

FWIW: I power down my expensive camcorder before connection but don't bother with an old Digital 8. Nothing bad has happened yet but others have complained of fried IEEE-1394 connections.

Risk is greatest if you have other devices connected to the camcorder such as a TV or a VCR.

[JeffD]

A computer is not considered a device, at least not in this context.

Just turn the camcorder off. That is what you are protecting.

Thanks, guys.

JeffD

[greymalkin]

yep..i don't know about your particular model..but the panasonics seem to have a bad reputation of blown out firewire ports. mine was blown out from day 1 even though the port had never been used. I also heard on the pana3ccd forum that panasonic considers the firewire port an extra luxury.